Gokteik-Viaduct - Myanmar
First published in 2017
The next day it's time for our trip to Hsipaw via train. In fact, we will not go all the way to Hsipaw but only to a small village called Naung Pane. But that's fine as the main purpose of this trip is to cross the Gokteik Viaduct. Built in 1901 by the Britains it's still the second-highest viaduct in the world.
There is an official schedule, but the timing is meant as "not earlier as". Depending on what happens on the way to Pyin Oo Lwin, there might be an hour delay or even more.
We just arrived at the station when a train appears. We are told not to enter as this is the wrong one. Well, in the end, it's not the wrong train, but the wrong wagon. As we will see later this one is "Coach Class" while our tickets are for the "First Class" (but forget any idea of luxury). Apart from these two carriages, there are also freight cars and we look at how they are loaded with all sorts of bags. This train is not a pure tourist attraction.
Then we start. Slowly, very slowly we're passing fields where many different fruits are growing. Pouring is sometimes with self-made watering cans and plowing with the help of oxen.
We stop at every station. Traveling hawkers enter the train and walk through the compartments. On the head, they carry small sweets like nuts in plastic bags and cold drinks, but also noodles with sauce and vegetables are transported this way.
Finally, we reach the impressive viaduct. Shortly before we enter it the train stops and who wants can get out and take a picture. But it's more interesting to do it from the open window while driving - at least if you have a good spot to do so.
