Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Bagan, Myanmar

Overview

Bagan, located in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar, is an ancient city home to thousands of Buddhist temples, pagodas, and monasteries. This guide will provide you with essential information about exploring this mesmerizing destination, including places to go, activities, where to eat, where to stay, transportation, tips, and other interesting facts for tourists.

Places to Go

1. Temples & Pagodas: Bagan is famous for its architectural wonders. Some must-visit temples include Shwezigon Pagoda, Ananda Temple, Thatbyinnyu Temple, Dhammayangyi Temple, and Sulamani Temple.
2. Sunrise & Sunset Tours: Witnessing the sunrise or sunset over Bagan’s temples is a truly magical experience. Popular spots include Shwesandaw Pagoda for sunrise and Bulethi Pagoda for sunset.
3. Mount Popa: Visit this volcanic plug, home to Myanmar’s nat spirit worship. Climb the 777 steps for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
4. Nyaung Oo Market: Experience local life at this bustling market selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Activities

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Indulge in an early morning hot air balloon ride over Bagan for a unique and unforgettable experience.
2. Bike Tours: Explore the temples at your own pace with a self-guided or guided bike tour.
3. Horse Cart Rides: Travel in style with a traditional horse cart ride through the ancient city.
4. Boat Trips on the Ayeyarwady River: Cruise along the river to see rural life, fishing villages, and enjoy the sunset.

Where to Eat

1. Ayarwaddy Restaurant: Offers a variety of Myanmar dishes with a stunning view of the Ayeyarwady River.
2. Orient Princess Restaurant: Enjoy a mix of Asian and Western cuisines while overlooking Bagan’s temples.
3. Lahpet: The Burmese Kitchen: Try authentic Burmese dishes in this cozy, modern restaurant.
4. Minise Section: A popular spot for street food lovers, offering a variety of local snacks and dishes.

Where to Stay

1. Bagan Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Resort: Luxury resort offering spacious rooms, a pool, and stunning views of the temples.
2. Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort Bagan: Features a pool, spa, and well-appointed rooms overlooking Bagan’s temples.
3. Bagan Lodge: Budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar offering sunset views.
4. Bagan Viewing Tower Hotel: Offers affordable accommodation along with a tower providing panoramic views of the temples.

Things to Know

1. Dress Code: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples and pagodas. Cover your shoulders and knees.
2. Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but it’s best to have cash on hand.
3. Internet Access: Wi-Fi can be unreliable, so consider purchasing a SIM card with data from a local provider like Ooredoo or MPT.
4. Electricity: Myanmar uses Type C and Type F power sockets. Adapters may be necessary for some devices.

Transportation

1. Airport: Bagan’s nearest airport is Nyaung U Airport (NYU), with regular flights from Yangon and Mandalay.
2. Domestic Flights: For travel within Myanmar, book flights through carriers such as Air KBZ, Myanmar National Airlines, or Yangon Airways.
3. Bus: Buses are available from major cities like Yangon and Mandalay to Bagan. Travel time varies depending on the city of origin.
4. Taxi/Car Rental: Taxis and car rentals are readily available in Bagan. Negotiate prices before starting your journey.

Tips

1. Visit Off-Peak Hours: Temples can get crowded during peak hours. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during hot weather.
3. Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and traditions while traveling.
4. Pack Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for your trip.

Enjoy exploring Bagan! This ancient city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.