Bagan

Myanmar (Burma), Asia

Bagan is a mesmerizing destination in Myanmar, renowned for its vast plains dotted with over 2,000 ancient temples and pagodas, many dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, particularly from hot air balloons, immersing visitors in its historical grandeur. The intricate architecture, rich cultural heritage, and serene landscapes make Bagan a place of spiritual and aesthetic appeal, attracting history buffs, couples, and adventurers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Mandalay

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Bagan

1

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Sunrise hot air balloon ride

Experience breathtaking views over ancient temples at dawn.

Booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Bagan Archaeological Zone

Discover over 2,000 ancient temples and stupas.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Shwezigon Pagoda

Admire the stunning golden stupa, a spiritual center.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Watch sunset from a temple

Enjoy a magical sunset over the temple landscape.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Ananda Temple

Explore one of Bagan's most beautiful temples.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cycle around Bagan

Rent a bike to explore temples at your own pace.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Dhammayangyi Temple

See the largest temple, known for its architecture.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a cooking class

Learn to cook traditional Burmese dishes hands-on.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bagan Market

Experience local life and shop for unique crafts.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cruise on the Irrawaddy River

Relax and enjoy scenic views along the river.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Kyat

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Burmese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mohinga

Fish soup with rice noodles. (National dish)

Shan Noodles

Noodles with meat and herbs.

Laphet Thoke

VE

Tea leaf salad with various toppings.

Ohn No Khao Swe

Coconut chicken noodle soup.

Burmese Curry

Spicy meat curry with rice.

Phrases to learn

English

Burmese

Hello

Mingalaba

(Min-gah-lah-bah)

Yes/No

Ho de / Ma ho bu

(Ho-de / Ma-ho-boo)

Thank you

Cè-zù tin-ba-deh

(Sey-zoo tee-in-bah-deh)

Excuse me

Ta wa hma

(Ta-wah-mah)

How much?

Behlout?

(Beh-lout)