Bagan, Myanmar-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Nyaung U Airport or take a bus/train from Mandalay
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel (see below for recommendations)
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Ananda Temple, one of Bagan’s most beautiful and well-preserved temples. Marvel at its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and tranquil atmosphere.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Mother Earth Restaurant, a local favorite serving delicious Myanmar cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride (1500 MMK/ $1 USD) to the nearby Dhammayazika Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Nyang U Market for some shopping and people-watching. Be prepared to haggle!
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Restaurant at The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate, serving modern Burmese cuisine with a twist
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the night market in Nyaung U, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs

Day 2: Temple Hopping

  • 7:00 AM: Start the day early with a sunrise view from the top of a temple (see below for recommendations)
  • 8:00 AM: Visit the Dhammayangyi Temple, Bagan’s largest and most impressive temple. Take your time to explore its sprawling complex
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the Sulamani Temple, known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at Bagan Teahouse, a cozy spot serving tea, coffee, and snacks
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Pyathada Pagoda, which offers stunning views of Bagan’s temple complex
  • 4:00 PM: Take a break and relax at your hotel or try some local activities like horseback riding or hot air balloon rides (see below for options)
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Strand Restaurant, serving Myanmar cuisine with an international twist

Day 3: Local Villages and Sunset

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the nearby village of Minnanthu, where you can see local artisans at work, including weavers, carpenters, and potters
  • 11:30 AM: Enjoy lunch at a local family-run restaurant (see below for recommendations)
  • 1:00 PM: Visit the Myinkaba Temple, known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings
  • 3:00 PM: Watch the sunset from the top of a temple or take a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River (see below for options)
  • 5:30 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Mother Earth Restaurant, where you can try some local specialties like Shan noodles and tea

Accommodations

  • The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate: A stylish hotel with comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving modern Burmese cuisine
  • Bagan Lodge: A rustic lodge with cozy rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving Myanmar cuisine
  • Minantha Village Inn: A family-run guesthouse with simple but clean rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving local cuisine

Getting Around

  • Motorbikes and cars: Available for rent at various shops in Nyaung U and New Bagan. Prices start from 5,000 MMK ($3 USD) per day
  • Horse-drawn carriages: Available for hire to take you around the temple complex. Prices start from 1,500 MMK ($1 USD) per person
  • Walking: A great way to explore the local villages and get some exercise

Things to Know

  • Respect for temples: Dress modestly when visiting temples, and remove your shoes before entering sacred areas
  • Bargaining: Be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets or from street vendors
  • Local customs: Learn about Myanmar culture and customs, especially during festivals and celebrations

Tips

  • Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
  • Water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Respect for the environment: Take care not to litter or damage the local environment

Other Activities

  • Hot air balloon ride: A breathtaking way to see Bagan’s temple complex. Prices start from 200 USD per person
  • Horseback riding: Explore the countryside on horseback, a great way to see rural Myanmar. Prices start from 20 USD per hour
  • Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the Irrawaddy River or nearby lakes. Prices start from 10 USD per hour