Loikaw - The urge to save souls


I haven't seen so many churches in Rome or Jerusalem as around Loikaw, the capital of Kayah State. The city is the centre of an area where different tribal peoples live, most of whom were animist originally. Many now have converted to Christianity, some to Buddhism, a few remain animist, and often they mix these things.

Entering the Loikaw area, there are two hills: on one there is a big white cross, on the other a golden stupa.







A Kayah animist temple and boarding school in Loikaw city. Good to see that some stick to their traditions.












Churches in and around Loikaw - it's just a few, there are hundreds more!








You find Muslims (and Hindus) in every town. They, at least here, are not trying to convert people.





The main Buddhist site in Loikaw is the Taung Kwe Pagoda, an amazing site. Unfortunately the stupas were covered as the place was renovated when I visited.




























Another Buddhist site, and another good viewpoint, is the Tit Ta Pin Pagoda.







Other attractions in Loikaw include a compulsory clock tower, a pleasant lake, more Buddhist sites, colonial and modern buildings, and of course a market.















A day out in the countryside on a bicycle.








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