Going to Myanmar in December and a visit to Mt Popa is part of our itinerary. Has anyone actually climbed all those steps and survived to tell the tale? and, if so, how long did it take you?
Myanmar and Mt Popa
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Yep, climbed them all. I think it took about an hour--maybe 1.5 hours because we stopped frequently and looked at the displays and other things on the way up. I felt it was interesting and worth the time. Beware of monkeys! They are a big pain at times but were not a bother as you get toward the top. I also remember that I got a bunch of small Kyat bills (100's I think--but I can't remember the exact amount) and gave one to each of the people who clean the steps--which is a necessary task. I was told by our guide that these people are very poor and this was their sole form of income...so a couple of dollars total from me made these people very appreciative. They are not begging, but rather providing a service. But don't feel any pressure to do this unless you want to.
After we finished and returned down, we drove to a beautiful resort nearby for lunch on a veranda overlooking the mountain.
I agree -- Mt Popa shouldn't take too long to climb or be too strenuous. However, for me, next time I'll opt to spend more time exploring the temples in Bagan -- especially those further out of the way where few tourists go. But you can't go wrong no matter what you choose. Have a great trip!
I opted not to climb up ALL those steps, but many in my group did. I found the steps I did climb (maybe 100?)rather unpleasant because of the monkeys and the excrement on the stairs, and what was at the top was not really worth the trip, IMO. I, too, would opt for spending the day elsewhere.
I agree that the lunch restaurant and view there were great.