We left Hpa An for Nay Pyi Taw on Wednesday morning. The flag off ceremony included the ministerial delegates of the region, who were proud to have hosted us for the night. After the warm welcome that we received, it did disappoint us that we couldn’t stay any longer.
Given the distances we have covered in the past couple of weeks, the drive from Hpa An to Nay Pyi Taw was relatively easier. Having traversed a good distance through the country roads, we were greeted by the most spectacular highway beckoning us to the capital city of Myanmar.
Nay Pyi Taw has been under construction as a city for a relatively short period of time. Yet, the architectural sights and infrastructure amazed us. A relatively small population resides here, but the foresight of the builders and the planners of this planned city show itself in the mighty construction of grand highways (one of sixteen lanes!) and amazingly stunning government buildings. The influence of the Orient is evident in the styles of architecture.
We were greeted at the hotel warmly. Traditionally-clad people were waiting to receive us and be at the service of the participants. Dinner followed our arrival, and with it was a proud display of Myanmar culture as well as Indian tradition. With every passing day and every new city, we realise how far the Indian culture’s influences can be found in the world! Tired from the day’s driving, we were guided to our rooms for the night.
Thursday started early, with the convoy leaving Nay Pyi Taw at 6 am. The
drive was smooth, and there were a number of stupas along the way. They
aroused our curiosity, and we do hope to visit at least some of these
another time.
The 31 Mahindra XUV500s reached Mandalay, another major city of Myanmar at about 1 pm. The day was relatively relaxed, with little to do. This was a blessing in disguise because the participants will need the rest for the journey that yet lies ahead.
The plans for the evening were rather pleasant. Dinner by the poolside along with the participants from the Rally made for a great time. Of course, like every night, our hosts entertained us with a cultural show. It was then that we observed that Myanmar has several national dresses. Their cuisine is delicious too.
The day has ended, and we are now closer to coming back to India. As
much as the impending end of the Rally saddens us, we look forward to
being on home soil again.