Bagan is a historical paradise! Previously existing as the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, which was the first Burmese kingdom, from the year 1044 to the year 1297, Bagan is home to thousands of breathtaking, historical, and religious monuments. For instance, the city is home to over two thousand, five-hundred Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and temples.
In fact, it has since been named the city with the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist monuments in the entire world. Bagan is also home to over two thousand magnificent pagodas and monuments from all different time periods, making the city a kind of historical site and one of the most important places in the country of Myanmar.
So much so, Bagan is oftentimes referred to as awe-inspiring, inspirational, and captivating. With so many important historical and religious sites, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to even begin to whittle it down! Nevertheless, here are this author’s top eleven things to do in the city of Bagan.
The Temples of Bagan
The main attraction! Bagan is known for its incredible number of beautiful temples, all conveniently placed in close proximity to each other. In fact, there are over two thousand temples for you to explore! To enter the archaeological site of the Temples of Bagan you will need to buy an all-inclusive ticket, that will in turn allow you access to all of the temples on-site.
Once purchased and on-site, the world is your oyster. You now have access to all of the breathtaking Temples of Bagan and can visit wherever you choose. Make sure to obtain a temple map so you can make your way around the archaeological site with ease! Top tip: the Temples of Bagan site boasts an incredible sunset, so if you can, make sure you take the time to watch the sunset behind these beautiful buildings and symbolic sites.
Location: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The Shwesandaw Pagoda
Yes, you now have access to all of the beautiful temples of Bagan. But, let this author recommend a few! The Schwesandaw Pagoda is architecturally unique in comparison to other temples existing in the area. In fact, it is also the tallest Pagoda in all of Bagan.
With a five-story platform and round stumpa on top, this Pagoda attracts visitors from all over the world. In particular, this Pagoda is known for its sunset watching and images of the building with a stunning sunset glow are well sought after! Make sure to visit the largest and most unique building on the Temples of Bagan archaeological site during your trip to Bagan!
Location: 5V78+GC8, Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The Ananda Temple
Another stunning religious site! The Ananda Temple is one of Bagan’s most sacred and beautiful ancient temples and is actually known as one of the best restored. Complete with quaint tiles, stone sculptures, and frescos, the temple is very visually interesting.
Like most of the religious sites in this area, make sure to remove your footwear before you enter and skirts and shorts aren’t recommended as you may be refused entry! This is one of the more unique and interesting temples and is definitely worth a visit during your temple tour!
Location: 5VC9+C3G, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The Shwezigon Paya
The most beautiful pagoda! How would you like to visit a gold-plated temple, shining in the sun in the midst of beautiful Bagan? Look no further than the Scwezigon Paya. This building is truly magnificent and boasts a wonderful atmosphere.
The architecture is spectacular and breathtaking and boasts a wonderful sunset over its ornate spires. In light of all this, the Shwezigon Paya is one of the most popular pagodas in all of Bagan and is oftentimes rather crowded, so make sure to plan your trip beforehand! The stunning, gold Shwezigon Paya is a must-stop during your tour of the Bagan Temples.
Location: Nyaung-U, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The Htilominlo Pahto
Towering over forty-six meters high, the Htilominlo Pahto temple is composed of terraces, interesting bricks, and elaborate plasterwork. In fact, this temple is one of the most popular in Bagan, so to avoid crowds, get there early! Htilominlo Pahto temple boasts some fantastic thirteenth-century architecture and so is definitely not one you should miss!
Location: 5VHH+FQW, Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma)
The Dhammayangyi Temple
The Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest in all of Bagan! The temple opened in 1167 and was built during the reign of King Narathu. Dhammayangyi Temple takes a pyramid shape, complete with many complicated labyrinth passages inside.
It is a maze, and is so fun to explore! The brickwork is impressive and the overall architecture is unique and interesting. The Dhammayangyi Temple is different from the other temples residing in the archaeological site of the temples of Bagan, both in size and in its quirky appearance. Make sure to stop by this temple during your temple tour!
Location: 5V6F+R72, Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The Narathihapatae Hpaya
Another incredibly exciting temple to visit! With fascinating architecture and mesmerizing statues of the Buddha, this temple is another very popular one. There are some beautiful murals inside of the temple that you can spend some time admiring. This temple is also one of the few that still allows visitors to climb to the top, giving you access to some great views of the valley.
Location: 5W72+488, Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma)
The Sulamani Guphaya Temple
The Sulamani Guphaya Temple was built by King Narapatisithu, possessing two stories and some fabulous architecture. The top story is closed off to visitors, but access is allowed to the lower floor. Across the internal walls, there are many inscribed words and fascinating murals, meaning you can spend hours investigating the interesting artwork. There is also a meditation monument, where you can sit, relax, and practice the art of meditation. This temple is one of the most famous and popular, with a great atmosphere and elegant architecture.
Location: 5V7J+XHF, Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma)
The Myauk Guni
One of the least busy but most visually breathtaking temples in all of the valley! Myuak Guni is described as being away from the hustle and bustle and is a great place to watch the sunset. Why not go to this temple first, as you’re sure to avoid the crowds and can truly appreciate the beauty of this wonderful temple? And, if you’re wanting to watch that stunning Bagan sunset without the crowds, this is definitely the temple for you!
Location: 5V5C+RF8, Myin Ka-Bar, Myanmar (Burma)
Hot Air Balloon Ride
This is a personal favorite of mine! What better way to admire the multitude of beautiful Bagan temples than from the sky? The hot air balloons of Bagan have become such a staple of the city that it is almost impossible to picture the Bagan skyline without the colorful array of vibrant balloons.
This opportunity to experience the soaring adventure of a lifetime has become iconic in the area, as visitors from all over the world have witnessed breathtaking, birdseye views of one of the most beautiful cities in Myanmar. There are two options when planning for your aerial adventure: classic or premium.
Read up online before your visit, or ask one of the many in-person companies taking bookings, to make sure you pick the right package for you and your party! Most of the hot air balloon rides take place at sunset, as the cooler temperature allows for the balloons to fly closer to the ancient temples residing below. A hot air balloon ride across the temples of Bagan is an absolute must when visiting this incredible city!
Nyaunglaphet Sunset Hill
Want to experience the beautiful sunset of Bagan, but from the safety of the ground? You need to visit Nyaunglaphet Sunset Hill! Obtaining its name from the incredible sunset views that the location boasts, this spot is very popular amongst locals and tourists alike.
Climb to the top of the hill and watch the sunset over the Bagan skyline. Admire the flood of hot air balloons rising above the ground and decorating the orange sky. This is an incredible activity to take part in during your trip to Bagan, not to mention it won’t cost you a penny!
Location: Nyaung-U, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
