Bagan Travel Guide: Explore Myanmar’s Ancient City of Temples

Imagine riding a bicycle along dusty red paths, ancient pagodas rising around you in every direction, as the golden sun peeks over the Irrawaddy River. This is Bagan—one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders and a spiritual treasure of Myanmar.
 

With over 2,000 remaining temples and stupas, Bagan is not just a historical site but a place where the past lives in the present. As your travel guide, I’ll take you through the best of Bagan—from sunrise hotspots to hidden gems, practical travel tips, and spiritual encounters you’ll never forget.

📍 Where Is Bagan?

Location: Mandalay Region, central Myanmar

Distance from Yangon: ~620 km north

Nearest River: Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady River)

Access: By plane, bus, or boat from major cities like Mandalay or Yangon

🕰️ A Brief History of Bagan

Founded in the 9th century as the capital of the Pagan Kingdom

From the 11th to 13th centuries, over 10,000 religious monuments were constructed

King Anawrahta (1044–1077) was the key figure who unified Myanmar under Theravāda Buddhism

After Mongol invasions in the late 13th century, the city declined, but its temples remained

Today, Bagan stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual heart of Myanmar.

🛕 Must-Visit Temples in Bagan

With thousands of temples, it’s impossible to see them all. Here are some iconic and must-see sites:

1. Ananda Temple

Known as the most beautiful temple in Bagan

Built in 1105, featuring four large standing Buddhas

Restored after earthquakes, but retains its elegance

2. Dhammayangyi Temple

Largest temple in Bagan

Famous for its precise brickwork and mysterious legends

Locals call it the “haunted temple” due to dark passageways

3. Shwezigon Pagoda

One of the oldest and most sacred

Gilded pagoda that inspired Shwedagon in Yangon

Still an active place of worship

4. Thatbyinnyu Temple

Tallest structure in Bagan at 61 meters

Offers beautiful panoramic views of the plains

Classic example of early Bagan architecture

5. Sulamani Temple

Known for intricate interior frescoes

Great for learning about Buddhist art and storytelling

Excellent spot for quiet meditation

🌄 Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Bagan

🌅 Best Sunrise Spots

Nyaung Lat Phet Viewing Hill – Popular and safe

Bu Paya Pagoda riverside – Offers misty morning river views

Balloon Ride – The ultimate sunrise experience (more below)

🌇 Best Sunset Spots

Lawkananda Pagoda – Faces the river with perfect sunset angles

Shwesandaw Pagoda (when open for climbing)

Taung Guni Hill – Quieter and less crowded

Tip: Since many temples are no longer climbable, opt for official viewing mounds.

🎈 Hot Air Ballooning Over Bagan

No experience in Myanmar compares to floating above Bagan’s temples at sunrise in a hot air balloon.

Operated by reputable companies like Balloon Over Bagan

Season: October to March

Flight time: ~45 minutes

Price: Around $300–400 USD per person

Book early—it’s a bucket-list experience that sells out fast!

🚴 How to Get Around Bagan

E-bikes offer the most freedom—just be careful on sandy roads!

🛏️ Where to Stay in Bagan

📍 Three Main Areas:

Old Bagan – Close to major temples. More expensive, luxury hotels.

Nyaung U – Budget and mid-range guesthouses. Vibrant and local.

New Bagan – Quiet, newer area with a mix of resorts and family-run inns.

🏨 Recommended Accommodations:

🥘 What to Eat in Bagan

Try these local and Burmese dishes while in Bagan:

Mohinga – Rice noodle fish soup (national dish)

Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet Thoke) – Fermented tea leaves with crunchy toppings

Shan Noodles – Mild rice noodles with meat or tofu

Coconut Noodles (Ohn No Khao Swe) – Creamy and rich

Tamarind Candy – Bagan specialty snack

Top Local Restaurants:

The Moon (Be Kind to Animals) – Vegetarian haven

Weather Spoon’s – Local and Western mix

Sanon – Training restaurant for disadvantaged youth

🛍️ Souvenirs & Local Crafts

Bagan is famous for its lacquerware, which makes for great souvenirs:

Visit Myinkaba Village for workshops

Other items: Sand paintings, cotton textiles, handmade paper fans

Bargain respectfully and buy directly from artisans when possible.

📆 Best Time to Visit Bagan

Sunrise and sunset are stunning year-round.

🧘 Cultural Tips & Etiquette

Always remove shoes and socks before entering temples

Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees)

Don’t climb temples unless permitted

Avoid loud conversations and public displays of affection

Respect monks and pilgrims

🧭 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary in Bagan

📅 Day 1:

Sunrise at Nyaung Lat Phet Hill

Visit Ananda, Shwezigon, and Thatbyinnyu Temples

Lunch in Nyaung U

Visit Dhammayangyi Temple

Sunset at Lawkananda

📅 Day 2:

Balloon Ride (optional)

Breakfast and relax

Explore Sulamani, Myinkaba lacquerware workshops

Sunset boat ride on the Irrawaddy

📜 Events & Festivals in Bagan

🎉 Shwezigon Pagoda Festival (November)

Held during full moon of Tazaungmon

Includes alms-giving, musical performances, and local crafts

A vibrant mix of devotion and celebration

🚍 How to Get to Bagan

✈️ By Air:

Flights from Yangon, Mandalay, and Heho

Bagan Airport (Nyuang U) is 15 mins from main temple zone

🚂 By Train:

Overnight from Yangon (~17 hours)

Scenic but very slow

🚌 By Bus:

Most affordable option from major cities

Night buses are popular, especially from Yangon or Mandalay

🚢 By River:

Boat cruises along the Irrawaddy from Mandalay (slow but scenic)

Final Thoughts

Bagan is not just a destination—it’s a journey into the spiritual heart of Myanmar. The temples whisper stories of kings, monks, and ancient beliefs. Whether you come for the mystical sunrise, the sacred architecture, or the peaceful landscapes, Bagan leaves an imprint on the soul.

So hop on an e-bike, breathe in the scent of incense and history, and get ready to explore one of Asia’s greatest wonders—the timeless city of Bagan.