Mrauk'U is an important cultural centre that's difficult to access but will please any traveller willing to go deep into a countryside that's off the beaten track during a trip to Myanmar (Burma).
It's a day's journey from Sittwe, situated on the coast. Take a boat up the Kaladan, which has wonderful views along its banks.
Once there, it's worth staying 3 or 4 days, as the site has a lot on offer and you'll enjoy an authentic, almost timeless atmosphere. If there's one place where you shouldn't watch the clock, it's here.
There are numerous temples, so you'll need to make a choice. Throughout my visit there were moments when I felt completely alone, as I barely crossed a soul on my way around the site! In any event, to have the opportunity to delve into the ambiance of this historically rich site, which was once a major policy-making centre, is enough to make the journey worthwhile. You'll feel like an explorer. A must-do if you have the time!