10 Things to Do in Popa Mountain National Park, Myanmar
Popa Mountain National Park is a stunningly beautiful protected area located in the Central Dry Zone of Myanmar. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and it’s also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Popa Mountain National Park.
1. Hike to the Summit of Mount Popa: One of the most popular activities in Popa Mountain National Park is to hike to the summit of Mount Popa. The peak of the mountain stands at 1,518 meters (4,982 feet) and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is relatively easy and takes about two hours to complete.
2. Visit the Local Monasteries: Popa Mountain National Park is home to several Buddhist monasteries, including the famous Taung Kalat Monastery which is perched atop a volcanic plug. The monastery is believed to be over 500 years old and is a great place to learn about the local culture and history.
3. Go Bird Watching: Popa Mountain National Park is a great place for bird watching. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the park, including many rare and endangered species such as the Burmese Bushlark, Jerdon’s Babbler, and White-browed Nuthatch.
4. Explore the Caves: The park is home to several limestone caves, which are great places to explore and observe the unique rock formations. The most famous of these is the Sway Cave, which is located near the summit of Mount Popa.
5. Visit the Hot Springs: There are several hot springs located in the park, which are believed to have healing properties. The most popular of these is the Nga Phe Chaung hot spring, which is located in a scenic valley.
6. Go Camping: Popa Mountain National Park is a great place to go camping. There are several designated camping sites in the park, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Take a Jeep Safari: Exploring the park by jeep is a great way to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. There are several jeep safari companies in the area, which offer guided tours of the park.
8. Visit the Local Villages: Popa Mountain National Park is home to several small villages, which are great places to explore and learn about the local culture and history.
9. Go Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in the park, and there are several streams and lakes where you can cast your line and try to catch some of the local fish.
10. Enjoy the Scenery: The park is home to some stunning scenery, and it’s a great place to take in the views. There are several lookout points in the park, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Popa Mountain National Park is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the park has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip and experience all that this beautiful park has to offer?