Bagan, Myanmar 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Temple Exploration

  • Arrival: Fly into Nyaung U Airport (NYU), which is the closest airport to Bagan. Taxis or car rentals are available for your convenience.

  • Check-in: Stay at Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort, a luxurious property offering stunning views of Bagan’s temples. For budget travelers, check out Ostello Bellavista Old Bagan or Amazing Bagan Hostel.

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a local Burmese breakfast at Oh-Nei-Shwe Restaurant, known for its Myanmar pancakes and noodle dishes.

  • Morning: Visit some of the most iconic temples in Bagan such as Ananda Temple, Shwezigon Pagoda, and Thatbyinnyu Temple. Each temple showcases unique architectural styles and intricate carvings that reflect Buddhist art.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at a riverside restaurant like Hto Min Gyi or Aye Yar Myo where you can enjoy traditional Burmese cuisine alongside the Irrawaddy River.

  • Afternoon: Continue exploring temples, including Dhammayangyi Temple, Sulamani Temple, and Htilominlo Temple. Don’t miss out on climbing some of the smaller temples for panoramic views of Bagan.

  • Dinner: Enjoy an evening meal at a local restaurant like Myanmar Cuisine or Wahinkhan Restaurant, both offering authentic Burmese dishes and a lively atmosphere.

  • Night: Take a sunset hot air balloon ride over Bagan for an unforgettable experience (book in advance). Alternatively, visit one of the temples to witness the beautiful sunset over the temples.

Day 2: Temples and Villages

  • Breakfast: Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel or try a local bakery like Myo Min Myint for fresh pastries and coffee.

  • Morning: Head to Old Bagan to visit temples such as Gawdawpalin Temple, Shwesandaw Pagoda, and Payathonzu Temple. Take your time to appreciate the architectural details and tranquil atmosphere.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at a riverside restaurant like Pyantha Floating Restaurant or La Belle Epoque, where you can enjoy international cuisine alongside traditional Burmese dishes.

  • Afternoon: Visit some off-the-beaten-path temples such as Nanpaya Temple, Manuha Temple, and Thambula Temple. Afterward, take a short trip to the pottery village of Myinkaba or the lacquerware workshops in Nyang U for a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

  • Dinner: Dine at a restaurant like Bagan Palace Restaurant or Khaing Khaing Moe for an evening meal, followed by a traditional Burmese dance performance (check with your hotel for show times).

Day 3: Nature and Departure

  • Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel before checking out.

  • Morning: Take a boat tour along the Irrawaddy River to see local villages, fishermen, and wildlife. You may also spot some of Bagan’s famous sandbanks and even take part in a morning alms-giving ceremony if you wish.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at one of the riverside restaurants before heading back to Nyaung U for your departure.

  • Transportation: Taxis or car rentals are readily available for travel around Bagan, while private tours can be arranged through various tour operators. To get to and from the airport, consider booking a prearranged taxi service for convenience.