Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Bagan, Myanmar

Myanmar attracts numerous visitors specifically for a trip to Bagan, renowned for its impressive collection of approximately 200,000 distinct temples. These landmarks are situated on dusty plains formed by the Ayeyarwady River, and many tourists compare the dry atmosphere to that of an alien landscape.

One prominent challenge in Bagan is determining the order of places to visit. It is advisable to conduct thorough research beforehand to maximize your experience. Additionally, securing the services of a local driver or renting a vehicle will facilitate your exploration.

Effective planning is crucial during your visit to Bagan if you aim to see as many sites as possible in a limited timeframe. Ideally, allocate at least three days to appreciate the area fully and avoid missing out on key pagodas, stupas, and ancient villages.

Here are the 25 best activities to undertake in Bagan…

1. Shop at MBoutik

MBoutik is an excellent destination in Bagan for purchasing local handicrafts while also contributing to the community.

This establishment is operated by the NGO ActionAid, and the products available for sale are crafted by over 600 women residing in the villages surrounding Bagan.

Every purchase of clothing, toys, jewelry, and handicrafts here supports the local community, allowing you to acquire souvenirs with a positive impact.

2. Explore Shwezigon Paya

Shwezigon Paya, situated near Nyaung U, is recognized for its substantial stupa, serving as the principal religious structure in the area.

For an optimal experience, consider visiting during dusk as the stupa becomes illuminated, showcasing the beautiful gilded structure atop three tiered terraces.

Be sure to observe the enamel plaques adorning the base of the stupa, which depict scenes from the Jataka tales, illustrating the previous lives of the Buddha.

3. Visit Nan Paya

In proximity to Manuha Paya lies a small shrine known as Nan Paya. According to legend, it was once utilized as a prison.

The narrative varies depending on the source, but it is believed that this shrine originally had Hindu significance. Rather than demolishing it, it was decided to repurpose it.

The primary attraction of this site is the sandstone brickwork, regarded as among the most exquisite in all of Bagan, a noteworthy accolade.

4. Tour the Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is part of a larger complex and is the ideal venue for gaining a comprehensive overview of the historical significance of this remarkable location.

You will find numerous artifacts from Bagan, including Buddha images and intricately inscribed stones, as well as modern paintings representing various temples.

In addition to antiques and art, the museum features a collection of textiles and an exhibit dedicated to ancient hairstyles.

5. Walk around Nandamannya Paya

Nandamannya Paya, dating back to the 13th century, is celebrated for its exquisite frescoes, the primary reason for visitation.

In addition, a small seated image of the Buddha is present; although it is in a state of graceful decay, it may not warrant significant attention.

However, art enthusiasts should not overlook it, as it is claimed to mirror the stylistic elements of Payathonzu, possibly even created by the same artist.

6. Visit Dhammayangyi Pahto

Visible throughout Bagan, Dhammayangyi Pahto is a significant temple complex constructed in the 12th century.

Its eerie alleys, some of which are practically impassable, contribute to its character. According to legend, it was established by King Narathu.

This temple is celebrated not only for its size but also for being one of the best-preserved (yet un-restored), making it a must-see site during your visit, particularly if time is limited.

7. Shop at Mani-Sithu Market

Situated in Bagan’s main town, the Mani-Sithu Market serves as a quintessential Burmese market. It is a worthwhile destination for those interested in sampling local produce and acquiring snacks for a long day of temple exploration.

This market offers vibrant fruits, vegetables, flowers, and a variety of textiles, accompanied by delicious street food snack options.

Also available are souvenirs such as lacquerware, for which Bagan is well-known, along with wood carvings.

8. Check out Shwesandaw Paya

To witness some of the finest sunsets in Bagan, directing your attention to Shwesandaw Paya is essential. This stunning pagoda, crafted in a pyramid style from white stone, features steps leading up to five terraces that culminate at the top of a prominent stupa, from which expansive views of Bagan are accessible.

It is important to note that this site experiences significant crowds at sunset due to its renowned vistas; however, the upper tier is adequately spacious.

If you prefer to visit without the throngs, consider coming during daylight hours when foot traffic is considerably lighter.

9. Tour the Thanakha Gallery

The Thanakha Gallery claims to be the only one of its kind globally, functioning as a small museum dedicated to the thanakha tree.

This tree holds medicinal and cosmetic significance in Myanmar, with all parts of the plant—leaves, roots, and bark—being harvested.

The galleries provide collections featuring items crafted from the tree, including brushes and prayer beads, while also chronicling the historical use of thanakha by former royal families in Myanmar.

10. Check out Nathlaung Kyaung

Nathlaung Kyaung is a modest structure that may not appear particularly exceptional.

However, it is noteworthy as the sole surviving Hindu temple in Bagan, known in English as the ‘Shrine Confining Nat.’ It bears this name because it is believed that King Anawratha used it to confine Hindu images while promoting Buddhism in Bagan, effectively rendering it a prison for non-Buddhist artwork.

11. Take a hot air balloon ride

To fully appreciate Bagan’s splendor, consider an aerial view.

A hot air balloon ride offers a unique opportunity to soar above the area, providing a distinct perspective from which to behold the stunning temples.

For those hesitant about heights, the sight of colorful balloons ascending gracefully into the sky can still serve as a captivating photo opportunity.

12. Visit Sulamani Pahto

This temple, locally nicknamed the ‘Crowning Jewel,’ exemplifies exceptional architectural beauty.

Constructed in 1181 under Narapatisithu, it is widely regarded as one of the most visually appealing temples in Bagan.

With a surrounding wall leading to a spacious complex, it seldom feels overcrowded.

13. Explore Gawdawpalin Pahto

Gawdawpalin is one of the most substantial temples in Bagan, reaching a height of approximately 197 feet.

While its size is remarkable, the interior has undergone significant restoration, presenting a more contemporary style.

Originally built during the reign of Narapatisithu, despite its grand scale, it is not considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing temples in Bagan.

14. Buy some local art work

Bagan is celebrated for its artistic creations and handicrafts, making it an ideal location to procure local souvenirs.

While Bagan is particularly famous for its intricate lacquerware, visitors can also discover local textiles and traditional jewelry.

Unique finds include sand paintings, which exhibit exquisite detail and serve as a reflection of Bagan’s dusty terrain.

15. Walk around Ananda Pahto

Ananda Pahto features a prominent spire referred to as a ‘hti’, which is adorned with gold leaf and reaches a height of 170 feet.

This temple is often regarded as one of the most beautiful and significant sites in Bagan, making it essential to include in your itinerary, particularly if time is constrained.

Believed to have been constructed during the 11th or 12th century under King Kyanzittha, it ranks among the oldest temples in the region.

16. Eat and shop at the Night Market and Carnival

The town of Bagan boasts a lively night market, which takes on a carnival atmosphere after sundown.

A small stage hosts local music performances, alongside a traditional Burmese Ferris wheel. Local men manually operate the wheel, scaling the structure to enable it to rotate.

Although not for the faint-hearted, experiencing the wheel is a remarkable sight.

17. Explore Payathonzu

Payathonzu, translating to ‘Three Stupas’ in Burmese, consists of three shrines.

This location is famous for its captivating 13th-century murals and intricate design work.

Interestingly, many visitors note that the architecture here resembles Khmer temples in Cambodia, providing a contrasting experience to other sites in Bagan.

18. Take a boat trip

For a stylish sunset experience in Bagan, consider arranging a private boat rental for a leisurely float down the river.

A small local boat, accommodating up to four individuals, is easily chartered for excursions lasting between one to two hours. Simply proceed to the central jetty in Bagan, where numerous vendors are available to facilitate your upriver journey.

19. Visit Lawkananda Paya

Historically, boats navigating the waterways of Arakan would frequent this pagoda in Bagan, one of the few riverside structures of its kind.

The temple is easily identifiable due to its large dome, characterized by a cylindrical shape, believed to have been constructed in the 11th century.

Its legendary status stems from being purportedly the location housing a replica of the Buddha’s tooth, although this relic is not on public display.

20. Admire Htilominlo Pahto

This impressive temple, reaching 150 feet, is believed to have been built in the 13th century.

It holds significance in Bagan’s history, reputedly being the location where King Nantaungmya was appointed as the new ruler.

The interior features a sizeable terraced section, although visitors may wish to avoid the entrance, which is often crowded with vendors offering souvenirs at inflated prices.

21. Take a cooking class

Near the central market, several cooking schools have emerged in recent years.

Most classes commence in the early morning, incorporating a trip to the local market, allowing participants to source fresh ingredients directly.

Upon returning to the school, you will be taught to prepare various local dishes.

Typically, there is an opportunity to dine communally with your peers, savoring the fruits of your labor.

22. Explore Gubyaukgyi

Gubyaukgyi, translating to ‘Great Painted Cave Temple’ in Burmese, remains a favored temple in Bagan.

Visitors are drawn here for the striking paintings adorning the cave, constructed during the 12th century.

The temple, established under the rule of Rajakumar, the son of Kyanzittha, features an Indian architectural style, distinguishing it from other local temples.

23. Stop by Tharabar Gate

Tharabar Gate once marked the entrance to the ancient royal palace in Bagan, although little of it remains today.

The gate formed part of a wall constructed in the 9th century, now largely eroded with only faint traces of its former grandeur.

Accompanying the gate are two compartments housing its guardians, making it an intriguing site for those interested in history beyond the typical temples.

24. Visit Thatbyinnyu Pahto

To explore the tallest temple in Bagan, make your way to Thatbyinnyu Pahto, which exceeds a height of 200 feet.

This remarkable structure features two tiers, each comprising three terraces adorned with large spires and a gold sikhara.

Scholars widely date the temple to the 12th century during the reign of Alaungsithu. Be sure to observe the 500 Jataka images detailing the Buddha’s various past incarnations.

25. Admire Nagayon

Another temple from the era of King Kyanzittha, Nagayon is notable for its impressive Buddha image.

The sculpture, significantly larger than a standard Buddha statue, is distinctively presented beneath a fearsome dragon figure, known as a naga in Burmese, which inspired the temple’s name.

This creation is tied to a local legend claiming that Kyanzittha constructed this temple in the 12th century while attempting to evade relatives opposed to his rule over this area of Myanmar.