Travel + Leisure India & South Asia

10 EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES IN ASIA

1 FLY OVER BAGAN IN A HOT-AIR BALLOON

he ancient city of Bagan in central Myanmar was once known to have more than 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas, and monasteries within a 100-square-kilometre area. Most of these were built between the ninth and 13 centuries, when Bagan was the capital city of the Kingdom of Pagan. Today it is estimated that 2,200 of the structures still exist. The best way to view them is from the wicker basket of a hot-air balloon gently gliding over the landscape. When the ancient architecture breaks through the early morning mist, it makes for the most ethereal sight. Three companies—Balloons Over Bagan, Oriental Ballooning, and Golden Eagle Ballooning—offer these flights over the Bagan Plain.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Travel & Leisure India & South Asia

Travel & Leisure India & South Asia2 min read
Stay The Night
HOME TO THE ICONIC Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco’s nocturnal persona springs to life amid neighbourhoods, cultural hotspots, and urban playgrounds—Mission District famed for Bohemian bars; Union Square, the home of upscale lounges; Castro Distric
Travel & Leisure India & South Asia3 min read
Slipping Into Serenity
“THERE’S A LOT OF TRAFFIC on the way to the centre,” says Sunil Dasan, our yoga instructor, when people don’t make it in time for the 6:30 pm meditation session. One would think a massive 16-acre, lush green wellness retreat set in Palakkad, Kerala w
Travel & Leisure India & South Asia1 min read
Wine Time
ON THE SHORES of Gangapur Lake in Nashik, the stylish villas by Beyond are a perfect getaway if you wish to escape the urban jungle. Make them your base to enjoy the tranquil countryside. The proximity of the villas to the famous Sula Vineyards (abou

Related