Women from Yandabo pottery making village near Mandalay, Myanmar. The entire village is involved in the business of making clay pots, from throwing them on the wheel, to decorating the outside with various designs, to firing thousands in giant piles of ash and straw. After cooling, the final product is carried down to the riverbank in preparation for shipping to locations all over Myanmar. Though it initially appeared that women were doing the bulk of the work while the men sat around gossiping, we later realized that the men were in charge of the real dirty work – digging clay from the riverbank for throwing the pots. And since the river rises up to 25 feet during rainy season, covering up the precious clay pits for months, the men must haul up enough clay to last an entire season and pile it in huge heaps around the village. This was just one of many fascinating destinations visited during my Myanmar Explorer Cruise/Tour with Viking River Cruises.
I want to this up close and personal and plan to take all my students as well. Could you tell me the best time to come.
Thanks
Hello Ms. Leira: The best time to visit Myanmar is November through February, as these are the coolest months.
Fascinating information about the roles of men, women, and the community in this pottery business! Great photo – looks like hard work!