The Bagan Archaeological zone occupies a 26 square mile area south of Mandalay, in central Burma. The area is one of astounding beauty – lined with palms and tamarind and adorned with exquisite temples – hundreds of them! Once here you’ll be entranced by Bagan’s otherworldly beauty – and ensnared by the sites and sounds of the temples. Bagan is easily a rival to the likes of Angkor Wat and Machu Picchu – though for the time being – it comes without the throngs of tourists. Most of the temples have been wonderfully preserved while other have been restored by UNESCO, and inside them, you’ll find mysterious frescoes, magical carvings and statues of the Buddha.