I , too, like the majority of pilgrims, was buzzing with excitement! I glimpsed the rock from a far. As it was still very early in the morning ( the ride up took approximately 45 mins) the atmosphere still was a little subdued and serene.

As I headed towards the actual site I came across this slightly smaller rock where a monk was meditating.

Many people stay overnight and so when the trucks arrive there are lots of porters ready to carry the heavy looking bags and suitcases to the various guest houses!

I enjoyed the stunning view and amazing scenery and then went up to the rock.

And of course the actual sight and energy of the place was simply stunning!

The actual rock is only accessible by man, women sit or view the rock slightly to the side of the rock.

And is often the case in Asia people who don’t know you from a bar of soap want to have their photo taken with you…

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (also known as Golden Rock) is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site in Mon State, Myanmar. It is a small pagoda (7.3 metres (24 ft)) built on the top of a granite boulder covered with gold leaves pasted on by devotees. According to legend, the Golden Rock itself is precariously perched on a strand of the Buddha’s hair. The balancing rock seems to defy gravity, as it perpetually appears to be on the verge of rolling down the hill. The rock and the pagoda are at the top of Mt. Kyaiktiyo. It is the third most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in Burma after the Shwedagon Pagoda and the Mahamuni Pagoda. A glimpse of the “gravity defying” Golden Rock is believed to be enough of an inspiration for any person to turn to Buddhism.

My day started very early. I set out at 5.30am. The local bus station where all trucks for the top of the mountain depart from was already lively with activity, sound and excitement. Large trucks take pilgrims and tourists to the top of the mountain. There are 2 or 3 people per truck who organize the ‘loading’ of these trucks.

Approximately 58 people are being tightly squeezed in, 8 to a row that is a very narrow bench with nowhere to hold on to. In a way you don’t really need to hold on because you are wedged in and so one is supported by each other. Still the ride is so wild, twisty and amazingly beautiful that one would like to have the opportunity to take a few happy snaps on the way.

The scenery was stunning. Luscious and green jungle formed the backdrop to mountain ranges as we were climbing higher and higher.