Mt. Popa, about 1,518 m high, is the oasis of the arid zone situated 60 km southeast of Bagan. It stands completely alone above the low ridge of sandstone, sparsely scattered over the country, one of the National Parks in Myanmar.
The two places of interest are the main mountain, the extinct volcano and Taungkalat (table-mountain) which was formed after the eruption took place 320,000 years ago. It is precipitous and one can get to the top along the winding stairway. Tame group of monkeys keep accompany with the visitors all the way up. The view of the countryside from there is breathtaking.
The main mountain looks like an ordinary volcano - a conical silhouette and concave slopes, steepest near the crater rim. One can visit to sandal wood plantation, education center regarding the flora and fauna of Mount Popa and other nooks and cranny. There are many springs on this mountain from where water constantly comes out. The soil is naturally fertile so that medicinal plants and trees such as banana, jackfruit, papaya, coffee, plums, grape and vegetables can be grown on the slopes and at the foot of Mount Popa.
Another ritual belief is the home for the “Nat” (unseemly spirit). Those who believe in “Nat” come and pray to for their well being and perform “Pwe” aim to37 “Nats”. The symbol of mountain is champak flower.