Myanmar is known as the Land of Golden Pagodas and Temples which draws much attention from tourists all over the world to the revered and mysterious structures. From the most famous pagodas in the center of Yangon to the most magnificent temples in the heart of Bagan, your spiritual trip is always full of joy and information. It is worth remembering that the Burmesepeople are deeply religious natives. They tend to hold all places, things, or architecture associated with religion in high veneration. If you plan a trip to this beautiful country, there are a few vital things to remember before you visit Myanmar pagodas on Myanmar Photography Tour.
Remove Footwear before Entering Pagodas or Temple Grounds
Visitors should take off their shoes and socks before entering the sacred places. Thus, make sure to bring a plastic bag with you, or simply buy one from some sellers outside the pagoda. Informatively, some pagodas can have storage for your footwear.
During the colonial period, shoes were allowedinsidethe religious zones, which did give one of the big impetuses to Myanmar’s battle for independence. Thus, keep in mind that all kinds of footwear must be removed before you enter the pagodas, temples, and monasteries. Since the Burmese always take their Buddhist beliefs seriously, disregarding such rules is considered impoliteness. In fact, a Russian tourist was imprisoned forone month because of wearing shoes in the temples and pagodas at Bagan.The golden rule is thatyou follow what the locals do.
Dress politely in the religious and holy places
Say NO to loose blouses and shorts as well as having your knees and shoulders covered when arriving in Burmese religious spots. The rule surely applies to both men and women. Be a respectful and polite visitor when you cherish the holiness and magnificent of the big religious heritages in the world.
Have a proper manner
Pagodas and temples are known as holy places of worship and spiritual development. Therefore, show your high respect and right manner by avoiding shouting, laughing, playing around, or making fun. For instance, music is prohibited on the platform of the Shwe Dagon Pagoda in Yangon.What else? Exhibition of affection (like hugging, kissing, or teasing) is also improper there. In some cases, simply holding hands may not be seen as a polite behavior. While some pilgrims come to the spiritual places for the peaceful mind, the others appreciate the knowledge enhancement from the Buddhist stories and many other spiritual benefits.
Don’t make others annoyed when raising your camera
While a few pagodas in Myanmar require tourists to pay a fee before taking photographs, others don’t even permit photography so as to avoid affecting the spiritual ambiance. Therefore, it is better to pay attention to warning signs around at first. Don’t take any picture if not allowed.
Moreover, stay away from any funny postures with pagodas/temples or Buddha statues as background. Avoid leaning on or using these statues as props. Because monks are not fond of being photographed, make sure to ask for their permission first.
Don’t sit with your back against Buddha statues
After wandering and contemplating around the pagodas, you can have occasion to rest or sit in a prayer area or shrine where Buddha statues are housed. If this is the case, then be careful of your seat. That means you should not sit with your back against the statues. This might be regarded as the sign of disrespect, so one more thing to watch for: your back!
Mount Popa over the cloud the home of Nat the Burmese mythology ghost this place is the old volcano in Myanmar
So, before you come to cherish the pagodas and temples in Myanmar,bear in mind the five important things for a complete trip. The nation’s religious gilded heritages are really worth your efforts to follow the Burmese belief and customs. See for yourself how incredible the gilded religious venues can be!
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