Bagan is a monumental city in Myanmar, rich in history and spiritual significance, dating back to the 9th and 13th centuries. This ancient city is famous for its landscape, dotted with over 2,000 temples, pagodas and shrines that tell the monumental story of a bygone era. The sheer size and historical depth of Bagan make it one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Here you can explore vast plains filled with architectural wonders, experience breathtaking sunrises, and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage that has shaped Myanmar.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: To reach Bagan, most travelers fly into Nyaung U Airport, which is well connected to Myanmar's major cities such as Yangon and Mandalay. Alternatively, buses and trains take you on scenic routes from different parts of the country, giving you a closer look at Myanmar's landscape.
• Getting Around: The best way to explore Bagan's vast temple fields is by bicycle, e-bike or horse-drawn cart. These modes of transportation make it easy to navigate the ancient paths and give you the freedom to stop at lesser-known sites. Guided tours are also plentiful, with local operators offering insights into the history and significance of the temples.
• Where to Stay: Staying within the archaeological zone gives you immediate access to the temples, while New Bagan and Nyaung U offer a taste of local life with markets and restaurants.
• How Long to Visit: We recommend at least two to three days to explore Bagan's main sites and enjoy a sunrise or sunset balloon ride. But with so much to do and see, you could easily spend a week or more in Bagan.
• When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Bagan is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable to be outdoors. These months also coincide with several local festivals that add a vibrant cultural dimension to the visit.
• Similar Destinations: If you're intrigued by Bagan's blend of historical depth and architectural grandeur, you might also enjoy a visit to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, another UNESCO World Heritage Site with an extensive collection of ancient temples. And if hot air ballooning over incredible landscapes is your thing, consider visiting Cappadocia, Turkey or Luxor, Egypt.

Highlights:

Temples and Shrines:

The temples and shrines of Bagan are the heart and soul of this ancient city. The golden shimmering Shwezigon Pagoda is an important Buddhist site and a stunning example of the architectural achievement of the ancient Burmese. Built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century, it served as a model for later Burmese stupas. The Sulamani Temple, another marvel, is famous for its intricate masonry and detailed frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. Built in 1183 by King Narapatisithu, it reflects the sophisticated art and architecture of the late Bagan period. The Gu Byauk Gyi Myin Kabar is notable for its exquisite Jataka murals, which tell the stories of the Buddha's past lives. This temple is a key site for anyone interested in Bagan's spiritual and artistic heritage. Beyond these three, Bagan's landscape is dotted with over 2,000 temples and shrines. From the towering Dhammayangyi Temple, with its mysterious walled passages, to the elegance of the Ananda Temple, known as the "Westminster Abbey of Burma," the variety is staggering. We've saved our favorites among the sights for this trip, so be sure to check them out!

Bagan Archaeological Museum:

The Bagan Archaeological Museum takes you on an in-depth journey through the history and culture of the Bagan Archaeological Zone. Located near Gawdawpalin Temple, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts, sculptures and inscriptions from the surrounding temples and sites. The exhibits, arranged in several galleries, show the development of Burmese art, architecture and religion from the 9th to the 13th centuries. Highlights include original frescoes, intricate glazed panels and a spectacular 3.5-meter standing Buddha.

Mani Sithu Market:

The Mani Sithu Market, located in the heart of Nyaung U, offers everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional handicrafts and textiles. Walking around the market, you'll see locals bargaining for goods, monks collecting alms and artisans selling handmade souvenirs. It's an ideal place to try local treats, take part in Burmese market life and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Bagan:

Experiencing Bagan from the sky in a hot air balloon is nothing short of awe-inspiring. At sunrise and sunset, the balloons give passengers a bird's-eye view of the ancient city bathed in soft golden light. Only from this vantage point can you see the grandeur of Bagan in all its glory, with the silhouettes of over 2,000 temples, pagodas and stupas stretching towards the horizon. The calm glide over this historic landscape offers a unique perspective that is both exhilarating and peaceful. By observing the intricate designs of the temples from above, the geometric precision of their layouts, and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, you are left with a profound sense of wonder.