I have just returned from  Yangon where I was taking a few snaps for a book I am working about Myanmar’s many tourist attractions. It was great to be back in the country which is one of the most beautiful and photogenic in the region.

Whenever is on my schedule, I always find time to make a trip to the Shwedagon Pagoda. The shot above was taken in a shop selling Buddha images on the street leading up to the temple’s east entrance.

Right now the country is in the middle of the rainy season. It’s a time when you can capture a very special atmosphere at the temple.

The temple has a truly magical ambience and it is easy to spend two or three hours there quietly observing and photographing. It is essential to pay at least a couple visits: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon and evening. The quality of light and the gold of the pagodas is constantly changing and patience is always rewarded.

There are some particularly beautiful Buddha images surrounding the many small zedis at the temple.

Monks at the temple can be seen meditating or preaching to visitors. They also enjoy talking to foreigners and are curious to know what we think about the country. I had to smile when one said to me ‘in the past, when I was a human being, I was a tour guide.’

 See can see more images in the Portfolio section here.

In Yangon, the golden magnificence of the Shwedagon Pagoda pierces the sky with a pinprick and a prayer confirming Myanmar as the jewel in Southeast Asia’s crown. It is impossible not to be moved by the beauty of this incredible temple.

Located on a hill in the centre of Yangon, the Shwedagon Pagoda can be accessed by a stairway at one of four entrances.  For those who cannot manage the climb there is also a lift at one entrance. At least two visits are required; one at daybreak and another at night. The temple is open from 4a.m. until around 10 p.m. and the entrance fee is $6.

Once inside I prefer to wander around on my own but there are plenty of freelance guides available if you are interested in finding out the history of the temple.

Apart from seeing the stunning chedis, fine architecture and Buddhist imagery, a visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda is also an opportunity to witness locals in moments of prayer.

Travel to Myanmar still remains a controversial topic in the West and it is clear that boycotts have left Myanmar’s tourist industry on its knees. During my two hour morning visit I did not see a single foreigner at the temple.

Without doubt Myanmar is run by a deeply objectionable bunch and their days are hopefully numbered, but anyone who has lived in Asia for any length of time will realize that poking them with a stick is no way to foster positive change.

I have visited Myanmar on many occasions for matters of research, as well as relaxation, travelling extensively in both urban and more remote areas. Regardless of the political climate I will continue to do so. I have yet to meet anyone within Myanmar who resented my presence or thinks I should stay away; quite the opposite in fact. The locals are delighted to meet foreigners.  If, as an individual, you were to make judgments as to where you should or should not travel due questionable government action, right now the USA and the UK would be pretty high on the list of places to avoid.

If you do visit Myanmar, and I see no reason why anybody should refrain from doing so, make the effort to engage with its people at all levels. Look beyond the politics to the individual.