Massive pilgrims flock to Bagan, Popa for Thadingyut Festival

 

PILGRIMS to the Bagan Ancient Cultural Zone have visited Popa to enjoy nature, resulting in a dramatic increase in visitor arrivals at Popa, according to residents.

In this year’s dry season, some people love the nature of the trekking tour in Popa, and some people take vacations in Bagan and go to Popa during their journey.

“During this year’s Thadingyut festival, visitor arrival at Popa has quite surged. Even today, some groups would stay overnight on the mountain. The deer park at geographical zone 7 is now lively. These are ecotourism areas, so people love to visit,” said Ko Tin Ko Min from Mahagiri Group.

The visitor arrival at Popa has sharply risen this year compared to previous years, and in addition to the Popa trekking tour, a new destination of villages located at the foot of Mount Popa has been developed and it is metaphorically called the oasis of Anya (upcountry).

Besides, local tourists’ arrival in Bagan has increased, even though all hotel rooms were occupied and no more e-bikes were available. Visitor arrival this year’s Thadingyut was more extensive than expected, according to Bagan residents.

“Like the pagoda festival, there is a throng of visitors in Bagan. All shops traded very well from 15 through 18 October. A rise in visitor arrivals can help the livelihood of residents,” said Ko Nay Myo Hlaing from Poneyaygyi restaurant. — MT/ZS