-----
A lot of random things happened while I was visiting Old Bagan, Myanmar. I met a man on a motorbike and called out to me in a voice that made me jump and distracted. He said, 'Hey, you don't look like a local, are you a tourist?' I honestly, i said yes.
I should be careful on this trip, but I know and understand that the local people in Myanmar are very friendly and kind. So I have nothing to fear, except for the people in green uniforms. So, I follow him cause he want to show me a spot with a great view, and the temple was still structurally sound, allowing me to climb to the top floor.
By the way the temple name is: Pyinsamukha Ngamyatnhar Phaya, Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma)
His name was 'Koko', and he introduce me to a tour guide before the military coup in this country. Then in 2021, there a decline in tourist coming, and his work was no longer profitable. Eventually, he sought out people like me to help him earn money so his family can eat. He offer to help by guiding tours or buying souvenirs from him, such as beautiful paintings.
During the trip, he talked extensively about the increasingly painful conditions in his country, where even survival was incredibly difficult. As he drove us to the site, the results were truly unbelievable. It exceed my expectations. This place was truly beautiful. Unfortunately, I dont get to see the sunrise at all, as it was exactly 11:00 a.m.
Koko suggested I come here tomorrow morning. The path I mentioned earlier is quite easy to access. Only a few locals know about it, and we among them. I thought that is a very comforting thing to hear.
We end up buy the painting he was selling, and he left with that hope. Honestly, i very grateful to Koko for take me to such a beautiful place, and I'm not afraid to climb to the top of the highest temple in Old Bagan.
I say it many times, you must come here, for sure. Besides its rich history, the locals are incredibly kind, friendly, and polite. I hope they can survive and thrive in the future. Old Bagan is not just history, it's a civilization that must be preserv for hundreds of years to come.