On the outskirts of Mandalay is perhaps one of Myanmar's most religious monuments. The Buddha is said to have been sculpted directly in the presence of Gautama Buddha during a visit to the kingdom of Arakan. Gold leaf offerings are applied in homage to the Buddha with so many layers that his body is now quite out of proportion with a truly large heart and enormous hand. Here, members of the public purchase their small square inch of gold leaf and wait in turn to apply it . It's a truly moving experience.
