Buddhism: Cornerstone of Burmese Life

Myanmar’s long years of isolation have left it one of Asia’s best preserved religious centers. Buddhism is the cornerstone of Burmese lifestyle; the monastic population in Myanmar exceeds 250,000.  Visit a monastery to attend a discussion with the head Monk on the art and importance of meditation in the Buddhist religion. After the discussion, the Monk will lead a guided meditation session, allowing participants to experience this daily practice. Next travel to one of the largest Monasteries in Myanmar. A Myanmar man is expected to spend some of his life serving as a Monk to learn the ways of Buddhism. Each morning, Yangon is scattered with thousands of Monks roaming the streets collecting Alms for their meals. According to Buddhist beliefs Monks only eat twice a day, early morning and mid-morning. When families make a donation to the Monastery, they are able to serve the Monks food in order to gain merit. Today, a donation will be made to allow voyagers to participate in the morning ceremony and help feed the Monks their final meal of the day. After the ceremony, take a tour around the Monastery to observe the everyday life of a Monk. Later on, stop at a local restaurants for lunch and to taste local food.