Mount Popa is a volcano 1518 meters above sea level and located 50kms Southeast of Bagan in the Pegu Range. It can be seen from the Irrawaddy River as far away as 60kms on a clear day. The monastery at Taungkalat (meaning ‘Pedestal Hill’) is famed for being home to 37 nats (Burmese spirits), which are represented by statues at the base of the volcanic outcrop. From here, you can climb the 777 steps to the monastery at the top, where you will find a 360 degree panorama and a labyrinth of shrines to explore.