Mount Popa

An extinct volcano rising to 1,518 metres in the dry central plains of Myanmar, Mount Popa is considered the most important centre of nat (spirit) worship in Myanmar and the hilltop shrine of Popa Taung Kalat — perched atop a volcanic plug rising 737 metres from the surrounding plain — is the home of the Thirty-Seven Nats of the official Burmese nat pantheon. The volcanic plug is accessible by a covered stairway of 777 steps, flanked by macaques throughout, and commands panoramic views over the dusty plains to Bagan and the Irrawaddy valley on clear days. The mountain is an important pilgrimage site particularly before major festivals.