The Best of Bagan in 2 Days

Myanmar (also known as Burma) has been one of those mysterious countries that most people know very little about and few people choose to travel to. In the past, the military control of the country had most tourists afraid or unwilling to venture into the South East Asian country, and those that did dare to explore the country were restricted on where they could and couldn’t visit.

Since the November 2015 elections things have become a little easier and more accessible. There are still no-go zones but the country as a whole is now seen as safer, and over the past few years has become a very popular tourist spot. Having visited myself in 2015, I know exactly why. The people are amazing and although the parts of the country I visited were more touristic than I expected, it still retains a lot of it’s old-world magic. Especially Bagan. Without a doubt, Bagan is high on my list of absolute favourite places and is a must visit for anyone travelling to Myanmar. I suggest spending at least 2 days in Bagan- here are my recommendations.

How to Get to Bagan

There are four main ways to arrive to Bagan. The most expensive is by plane which arrived in Nyaung U, about a 30-minute drive to Old Bagan. It is important to note that, at this time, the Nyaung U airport is a domestic airport only. 

There are plenty of bus options to Bagan as well; this is usually the cheapest option. There are different services and companies but many of them offer pick up and drop off at your hotel. Expect bus rides to be pretty bumpy, and depending on the service you choose, your bus may stop to pick up locals in smaller towns and villages.

The third option is to take the train. Burmese trains have quite the reputation, and not necessarily in a good way. Rides are bumpy and loud and there has been more than one story of baggage bouncing out the windows. However, those that have travelled by train say it’s an authentic Burmese experience that everyone should try at least once.

The final option is only available from Mandalay, and it is to take a boat down the river. The boat takes about 8-10 hours and leaves early in the morning to arrive in Bagan mid afternoon. Should you choose to take the boat make sure to arrive early to get a seat on the deck, and wear plenty of sunscreen because the sun is quite strong reflecting off the water. You should also bring a book or something to entertain you. This option does book up pretty quickly, so don’t leave it til the last minute. 

Tip: The most picturesque part ride is the first hour or so and the last 20-30 minutes as you arrive in Bagan, so don’t nap during these times! 

**Note: Bagan is an archaeological zone. You will be charged a one time fee to enter the zone. This is not a scam- everyone has to pay or else you cannot enter. In return you will be given a ticket-make sure to keep it on you for the duration of your stay should you be checked.

Getting Around Bagan in 2 Days

If there’s one negative thing about Bagan it’s that is it definitely not walkable. However, being home to thousands of temples, you can’t really expect that it would be.

The cheapest option to get around is to rent a push-bike. But you better be in some seriously good shape to spend two days cycling through dusty dirt paths to see all the temples. Bagan is huge, and the temples are very spread out so push bikes are quite limiting and not recommended to those who want to see a lot.

The most common (and most fun) option is to rent an e-bike, basically a battery-powered moped. They can be rented everywhere for different prices depending on the size. E-bikes are the most convenient way to see Bagan and offer the most freedom. Beware: Batteries die regularly so it helps to have a phone and be able to call the number of where you rented it (on your key or the bike itself) for them to bring you another battery. If you don’t have a phone flag down a local- trust me, they are used to it and happy to help. *Tip: You may be able to bargain on a multi-day rental for a discount.

If you are uncomfortable driving an e-bike yourself you can always hire a driver/guide. There are three ways of doing this. 1) Hire a motorbike guide (the cheapest option if you are travelling alone) 2) Hire a taxi or 3) Take a horse and cart ride. There are plenty of locals who act as guides for tourists so just ask other travellers who they have used or at your accommodations for suggestions.

Of course, you can also rent a car to explore yourself.

Where to Stay in Bagan for 2 Days

Bagan is divided into four main areas in which tourists can base themselves.

Nyuang U: This is where the airport, main bus station, train station, and boat from Mandalay arrive. It’s about 20-30 minutes outside of Old Bagan. There are plenty of accommodation options here- especially for budget travellers (also, one of the best spots to find ATMs!) However, although it is the most convenient area for getting in and out of Bagan, it’s the furthest from the attractions.

Old Bagan: The most expensive spot to stay, but also closest to the main temples. Old Bagan is located within stone walls and is a beautiful place to base yourself in. Most accommodation options here are higher end hotels.

Myinkaba: Not too far from Old Bagan, Myinkaba is a busier area best known for it’s lacquerware shops.

New Bagan: Created in the 1990s, it’s the newest place to stay and furthest south (still closer to main temples then Nyuang U). There are plenty of budget and mid-range accommodation options here, ATMs, shops, and restaurants (both traditional Burmese and western-style). It was where I chose to stay as it allowed easy access to the main temples near Old Bagan but also the less popular temples further east, which are definitely worth exploring.

Personally, I suggest choosing a place in Old Bagan or New Bagan. Need some suggestions? Take a look at: 

Hostel: Ostello Bello Pool  

Midrange: Bagan View Hotel 

High-end: The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate

The Best Things to do in Bagan in 2 Days 

Bagan is known for it’s temples and pagoda’s, so that’s what you are here to see. There are literally thousands. At one point, when the kingdom was in it’s prime, it is estimated that there were 10,000 temples. Today however, after time, weather, and the earthquake of 1975, there are a little over 2000 temples and pagodas perfect for exploring.

Important: These temples may be old, and some may be ruins, but they are still holy and sacred places. DO NOT wear shoes or socks inside the temples. Women must also dress appropriately; this means keep your shoulders and knees covered. Please be respectful during your visit.

Must-see Pagodas and Temples in Bagan

A lot has changed with Bagan’s temples since my visit in 2015. When I visit we were encouraged to explore and even climb them. Now, however, climbing temples (even the ruins) is off limits to better protect these incredible landmarks. Please be respectful as you visit Bagan’s many temples.

Ananda: Nicknamed the “west minister abbey” of Myanmar, it’s one of the most beautiful and revered temples.

Dhammayangyi: The largest temple in Bagan; however only part of it is accessible. For an unknown reason much of the interior has been sealed behind brick walls.

Shwesandaw: The most popular place to view sunset. Legend says this pagoda holds a Buddha hair relic, it’s name means Holy Golden Hair

Shwezigon: One of the most popular pagodas among tourists and locals. Probably your best chance at seeing local monks. Note: As one of the most popular spots it’s where you are most likely to get taken advantage of. Shop owners will greet you and take your shoes for you to find when you return outside their shops so you buy something. There is also a dragon “scam” where locals will bring you to a part of the temple for a little ceremony and expect money from you. If you are ok with paying a few dollars for the experience it’s kind of neat, if not just say no thank you.

Thatbyinnyu: The tallest temple in Bagan.

Htilominlo: A beautiful red brick temple best known for the elaborate plaster mouldings.

Sulamani: A popular temple with many frescos on the interior.

Thambula: Known for it’s obvious Chinese influence

Nanda Pyin Nya: Nicknamed the painted temple- the inside of this small temple is covered in painting telling legends and stories. No photos allowed though to better preserve the paintings. If you are lucky, Tin Tin will be there to explain.
*more about Tin Tin to come under the “Shopping” section of this guide.

Other Temples: Again, Bagan is filled with thousands of temples, so although the above temples and pagoda’s shouldn’t be missed, don’t forget to stop by and visit any interesting ones you pass by. There are too many to show on maps so embrace your inner Indiana Jones and go exploring!

I loved exploring Bagan’s temples by e-bike during my 2 day visit, but if you are looking for something a little more relaxed, check out this guide to Bagan which takes a more leisurely approach.

Where to See Sunrise in Bagan 

The ultimate experience here involves getting up super early to watch the sunrise in Bagan. For those who have the money, hot air balloon rides over the temples are an incredible way to start the day. However be prepared for fork out $300USD+ per person, and book well in advance to ensure your spot. Since climbing temples is no longer permitted, the hot air balloon ride will be your best bet for the spectacular Bagan sunrise views. 

For those with slimmer wallets, don’t worry. You can still see the famous Bagan sunrise ground. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, you can no longer climb the temples for the view. While I am glad that the country is taking better care of the temples by not allowing this, it does make me a little sad since it was a highlight for me and made me feel like Indiana Jones. That being said, if I hadn’t been encouraged by locals, I don’t think I would have thought to climb what are actually religious structures anyway. So, while climbing temples for sunrise in Bagan remains one of my favouite memories, it really is for the best.

If you want to experience sunrise in Bagan for free, I suggest getting out into the fields. Bagan is relatively flat which means while you won’t have an elevated view, you will still be able to watch the balloons rise beside all the temples in the distance. When I visited, balloons came up from a couple different areas so ask at your accommodation if they know where the balloons will depart from and where you can best see nearby. Trust me, the locals and hotel/hostel staff know the best places for great views away from the main crowds.

You can also try the Nann Myint Viewing Tower. The structure itself is quite ugly against the ancient-temple filled landscape, but it does offer photogenic views you see of sunrise in Bagan. 

Important tip: Hot air balloon season runs from October-April. So if you dream of hot air balloons during your sunrise in Bagan, make sure to plan your trip accordingly. 

Minnathu Village

A small village where visitors can be shown different aspects of traditional Burmese country life. From farming to making the traditional Burmese thanaka. There’s also a restaurant on site. Although it is meant for tourists it’s not very touristic. It’s a free ‘attraction’ but tips are welcome.

**Tip: Bagan is large, so it’s best to divide your days to explore the sites closest to each other together. For example, if staying in New Bagan, explore the temples and pagodas of Old Bagan and area Day 1 and Day 2 go the opposite way.

Shopping in Bagan

Bagan isn’t exactly a shopping mecca, but if you are looking for a special souvenir there are a couple of options.

As mentioned earlier, Minnathu Village is known for it’s lacquerware stores. There are many, so shop around, but most of them are run by families that have been artisans for years. Their work is beautiful and there are all kinds of things to buy from tiny tea cups and dishes to wardrobes and tables. Some shops to accept credit cards but have a minimum, so it’s best to bring cash.

Sand painting are also a great souvenir and can be found for sale at every major temple. There are all kinds of prints from Buddha to monks to floral designs, however, if you shop around at the temples you will notice they are all the same. If you want something really unique, go see TinTin who, as mentioned above, can be found in the Nanda Pyin Nya temple. He is an incredible artist who bases his work off the artwork found in the temple, meaning it’s all original to him as he refuses to sell his work to other locals to replicate. He has sand paintings and sandstone carvings on canvasses for sale. They are the perfect souvenir as you can crumple them up small to fit in your bag and just iron them out at home. Note: You will pay more for TinTin’s work than the knock-offs. My sandstone elephant carving (pictured below) was 30USD. (This was 2015, so I hope he is still there!)

Of course, there are plenty of other vendors as well, many of which set up shop in front of the temples. They will sell elephant pants, postcards, books, thanaka, and sometimes even their services as a guide. It’s up to you whether you choose to buy or not and haggling is always an option, but keep in mind that this is the vendor’s livelihood and although a dollar may not be much to you, it is to them . As in any other country, please do not give money to the young children.

If you Have More than 2 Days in Bagan

For me, two days was the perfect amount of time to explore Bagan before getting ‘templed out’. Ho,wever if you do have a third day I would suggest hiring a taxi for a day trip to Mt Popa and Salay. Salay is about 30 minutes away and home to some incredible monasteries. It’s more spiritually important to the Burmese than Bagan. Mt Popa is an extinct volcano overlooking Salay. You can also ask your driver to take you to the nearby Tuang Kalat Monastery, known as the gathering spot for Burmese spirits known as the “Nats”. There are plenty of myths and legends surrounding this monastery, giving it the nickname the Mt Olympus of Burma.

Bagan is also home to a few museums including a museum of archaeology that might be worth a visit should time allow.

Bagan is one of the most magical places I’ve ever been- so enjoy

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance here. If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend SafetyWing. For Canadian readers, take a look at SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend booking.com for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is GetYourGuide. They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I have used esims around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA- they are super easy and you don’t risk losing your home sim! There are two brands I have used and recommend so I suggest comparing both. 

Airalo: download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase.

Truely: This one is easier in that it’s a one-time download instead of downloading an esim for each country. It also allows you to hotspot and tether- which not all esims do. Check out options here.

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my travel essentials and camera gear if you are looking for some ideas. 

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