Shan Plateau and Agricultural Scenes
After an overnight stay in Pindaya, we turn south again, and enjoy some more of the beautiful Shan Plateau.
Pa-O Farm Family Home
We are able to visit the home of a Pa-O tribe farm family, constructed from poles and mats. A hearth in the center of the upper level provides for cooking needs, and heat in winter. At this particular time the family is sharing space with a crop of ripening tomatoes.
Some children play with balloons we have given them; another family waits nearby, possibly for a bus. Homemade biofuels and a filter funnel are displayed to attract the attention of passing motor vehicles.
Tazaungdaing Festival-goers (Festival of Lights Travelers)
Along the way, and especially at Aungban, we encounter groups headed for the annual Tazaungdaing (Festival of Lights) at Taunggyi. All sorts of trucks are pressed into service, festooned with parasols and colored decorations.
The festival is a national holiday, celebrated all over Myanmar on the full moon day of the eighth month of the traditional Burmese calendar (November 10 in 2011). It officially marks the end of the rainy season, and also the end of the Kathina season, during which monks are offered new robes. Particularly in the Shan State, and at Taunggyi, hot air balloons lit with candles are released as an offering to the heavens. The timing of our visit does not allow us to be at the festival itself, but we are fortunate to be able to enjoy the parade of vehicles on their way to it.
Other Scenes Along the Way
A plethora of cabbages and ox-carts ...
... and people along the road. The women at right wear traditional garb of the Pa-O tribe.
Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
This old teak monastery at Nyaungshwe is a photographic favorite for its unique oval windows which often frame the novices inside.
Onward
Passing by the Air Bagan ticket office at Heho we notice that business is slow. Finally we reach our lunch restaurant (right). After lunch we will move on to Inle lake for a 3-day visit.