Pagan: Hot air balloon sunrise in the land of Vanta

Pagan is Myanmar's land of ten thousand stupas, with over two thousand stupas scattered across the plains. For three days and two nights, between hot air balloons and dawn, you encounter a sunrise of the gods.

Taking off in a hot air balloon, thousands of stupas appear faintly in the morning mist beneath your feet, the first ray of light illuminating them one by one—one of the most breathtaking sights on your travel list.

The Bingyu Pagoda and Ananda Monastery are the finestly preserved representatives, with brick carvings and murals telling Buddhist stories. From the top of the pagoda, the plain looks like a sea of pagodas.

Renting a carriage to travel through country lanes, the shadow of the pagoda, the fields, and the ox cart slowly receding. The setting sun dyes everything gold, and the monk's orange robe stands out strikingly.

Ruishan Duta is the top choice for watching the sunset; though crowded, it's well worth it. When the sun sinks into the tower forest, the entire plain is dyed with honey oranges, and the hustle and bustle instantly quiets down.

Pagan's wonder lies in building faith into a plain. When you look down from a hot air balloon and suddenly lose your voice, you'll understand: some are spectacular, and language simply isn't enough.