Land of enchantment: The photographs that show just why Myanmar leaves every visitor spellbound

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Photographer Andrei Duman has captured images of Myanmar that show just why so many travellers want to visit its temples and ruins.

His images show them at their most enchanting and mysterious.

He told MailOnline Travel that he was awestruck by the country’s beauty as soon as he touched down. 

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His career is in ruins: The cracked temple of Mingun was the landmark that Duman had his heart set on most, and when he arrived it did not disappoint

View from the skies: The Began Temple Complexin Myanmar is witnessed from above by a hot air balloon at dawn

There are over 2,000 temples in Myanmar and alongside the dazzling gold-leaf temples are crumbling ruins that nature is desperately trying to reclaim. Pictured is the Kekku Pagoda

Rising out of the mist, he said, were glittering golden temples illuminated by the morning sun and peppered with colourful monks going about their day-to-day to business. 

But while many of the dazzling wonders are thronging with people, there are a treasure trove of crumbling ruins lying forgotten in the countryside.

Duman spent a few weeks exploring the country by all manner of transport in order to capture these religious wonders in all their glory.

The cracked temple of Mingun was the landmark that Duman had his heart set on most, and when he arrived it did not disappoint.

'The temple was a long plane and early morning boat ride away,' he told MailOnline Travel. 'The timing of my shoot was utterly important to get the right light on the temple sides. 

'It was by chance that there were some young monks who had just finished doing their food rounds at the local market who presented me with the opportunity to get the more authentic shot.'

In his hectic world, the Romanian professional, 34, said photography allows him to slow down, take his time to frame the image and enjoy the silence.

One of his favourite moments in Myanmar was during the peace and quiet of a dawn shoot.

'An unforgettable moment was being out on the Lake in a boat at 5.30am in the pitch black waiting for the sun to come up over the mountains,' he said.

Breathtaking wonders: People wander past Shwedagon pagoda with its large glittering spires that dazzle in the midday sun

A country of contrasts: Red robed monks stand out as they zig-zag their way up the spellbinding Hsinbyume Pagoda

Duman spent a few weeks exploring the country by all manner of transport in order to capture religious wonders such as Mrauk-U Temple

The photographer wasn't sure what to expect from the people when he arrived but found them to be incredibly welcoming.

'They always invited us into their home, offered food and tea and were incredibly intrigued by where we came from,' he said. 

'In every part of the country that we were in, including the poor districts, all were very approachable and eager to help.' 

His impressive portfolio captures the mesmerising history of the Asian country, a nation clinging to its traditional ways, whilst aiming to embrace the modern world.

One of the best times to witness Myanmar, Duman said, is just before dawn when the nation lies still and quiet, which is demonstrated by this misty scene at the Pindaya Cave Buddhas

In his hectic world, the Romanian photographer, 34, said photography allows him to slow down, take time to frame the image and enjoy the silence. Pictured is a sunset on the Began Temple complex

His impressive portfolio includes this amazing image of glittering golden spires at the Began Temple Complex

There are over 2,000 temples in Burma, and alongside the dazzling gold-leaf temples are decaying relics that nature is desperately trying to reclaim.

'Myanmar has always been a land of mystery and enchantment to me,' he said. 

'Maybe it is because it has been closed off to the world for so long, or maybe because of the amazing culture and architecture that dots the land.

'It is full of wonderful examples of stunning scenery, diverse food choices and fascinating traditions.'

Duman's work can be seen on his website, Facebook and Twitter and at his new gallery in LA.  

The photographer explores a temple full to the brim with dazzling gold Buddha statues and relics