Bagan's legendary sunsets and sunrises, along with its UNESCO World Heritage status, makes it one Southeast Asia's most significant archaeological sites. Spread across a vast, flat plain in central Myanmar, these pagodas are in various stages of decay. Bagan was the ancient capital of the powerful Pagan Kingdom, which ruled over much of present-day Myanmar from the 9th to the 13th century. Its rich heritage was marked by the construction of more than 10,000 pagodas with about 2000 monuments standing today, still looking beautiful.

I am Burmese, and it saddens me that, due to the recent coup, I am unable to visit my homeland. Nevertheless, I am eager to share a part of our rich heritage with my children by taking them to experience the cultural significance and historical marvels of Myanmar when the situation permits.