Bagan, Myanmar-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bagan

  • Morning: Arrive at Nyaung U Airport (NYU) or Taunggyi Airport (TYG), depending on your flight. Take a taxi or bus (about $5-10 USD) to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Ananda Temple, a stunning example of Bagan’s ancient architecture and one of the most well-preserved temples in the area.
    • Location: Ananda Temple, Nyaung U
    • Tips: Be respectful of the temple and its surroundings. Wear modest clothing and remove your shoes when entering the temple.
  • Evening: Explore the town of Nyaung U, try some local street food, and visit the nearby night market.
    • Place to Eat: Shwe Hnin Si Restaurant (try their delicious Shan noodles!)
    • Tips: Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and try some local snacks like fried insects or roasted peanuts.

Day 2: Temple Exploration

  • Morning: Visit the nearby Dhammayazika Temple, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
    • Location: Dhammayazika Temple, Nyaung U
    • Tips: Be prepared for a steep climb to reach the top of the temple for the best views.
  • Afternoon: Explore more temples in the area, such as Sulamani Temple and Thambutti Temple. Consider hiring a guide or renting an e-bike to make your journey easier.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Burmese dinner and watch a local dance performance at a nearby hotel or restaurant.
    • Place to Eat: The Hotel G River Resort’s restaurant offers delicious Burmese cuisine and live music.

Day 3: Balloon Ride over Bagan

  • Morning: Take an early hot air balloon ride over the ancient temples of Bagan. This is a unique and breathtaking experience that should not be missed.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Lawka Temple, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
    • Location: Lawka Temple, Nyaung U
    • Tips: Be prepared for a steep climb to reach the top of the temple for the best views.

Day 4: Horse Cart Ride and Sunset

  • Morning: Take a leisurely horse cart ride through the countryside, visiting local villages and temples along the way.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel or explore the nearby town of Nyaung U.
  • Evening: Watch the sunset over the ancient temples of Bagan, a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the local market before departing.
  • Afternoon: Head back to the airport or bus station for your departure.

Accommodation

There are many hotels and guesthouses in Bagan, ranging from budget-friendly options like the Nyaung U Guest House (about $10-20 USD per night) to luxury resorts like the Hotel G River Resort (about $200-300 USD per night). Consider staying at a hotel or resort that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Transportation

The most common mode of transportation in Bagan is by taxi or bus. You can hire a private car and driver for about $50-100 USD per day, depending on your itinerary.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or villages, and remove your shoes when entering temples.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water with you throughout the day, especially during hot balloon rides or long horse cart rides.
  • Bargain at markets: Don’t be afraid to haggle prices at local markets or shops.
  • Learn some basic Burmese phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning a few basic words like “hello” (mingalaba), “thank you” (kyziee), and “goodbye” (mingalaba).
  • Be prepared for crowds: Bagan is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for large crowds at temples or markets.
  • Respect the local environment: Don’t litter or damage the local environment, as this can harm the local ecosystem.

Additional Activities

Consider adding these activities to your itinerary:

  • Visit the nearby Mount Popa, an active volcano that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Burmese dishes like laphet (tea leaf salad) or shan noodles.
  • Explore the local night market, which offers a wide range of street food, souvenirs, and local crafts.