It was earlier forbidden for tourists to climb on old pagodas and temples for that purpose.
The initial idea of building the mounds belonged to the Japan International Cooperation Agency as the measure that would keep the tourists off the architectural structures. Some are against building the mounds as they spoil the scenery and the view of the lake, besides, the sunrise and sunset are not very well seen from them as critics say. The representative of the Myanmar Archeology Association does not see any advantages in building them because except destroying the landscape, they are made by digging the earth too deep thus threatening a nearby temple.
Bagan has applied to the UNESCO to become a World Heritage Site, but only the authenticity and integrity will count. The UNESCO has been inspecting Bagan for a year and the decision to add it to the list of a World Heritage site or not will be taken in 2019.
Man-made Mounds Continue to Appear around Lake Bagan to Become Viewing Platforms for Tourists
News in Asia
The construction of viewing mounds continues after four have been built. They will serve as viewing platforms for those who would like to admire the sunrise and sunset.