Hot Air Balloons from the ground
We woke up early to admire the hot air balloons we rode the day before over the Bagan Temples. The view was majestic, especially knowing we were flying one of those balloons just yesterday.
There's something magical about watching the balloons from the ground after experiencing the flight yourself. Seeing all 21 colorful balloons rise into the dawn sky over the ancient temples brought back all the emotions from our own journey.
Temple Hopping
Later on, we visited a few more or less popular pagodas like the Shwezigon, the Manuha and the Apeyadana with its wonderful painting inside. Each temple offered its own unique character and stories, adding layers to our understanding of Bagan's rich Buddhist heritage.
Journey to Kalaw
It was already time to leave for Inle Lake but not before stopping at Kalaw. We were not taking the easy road to the lake. Instead, we opted for a 3 days trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake - an adventure that would take us through Myanmar's stunning hill tribe villages.
After a bus, plane and taxi, we settled in at our hotel in Kalaw, excited for the trek ahead.
Travel tips for Bagan to Kalaw
- Must-visit temples: Shwezigon Pagoda (gold-plated stupa), Manuha Temple (reclining Buddha), Apeyadana Temple (beautiful interior paintings). Each offers unique perspectives on Bagan's religious art.
- Balloon viewing: Wake up early to watch balloons launch from ground level. Best viewing spots are near popular temples. Seeing them after your own flight makes it even more special!
- Getting to Kalaw: Multi-leg journey via bus, plane, and taxi. Plan for a full day of travel. Kalaw is a popular starting point for trekking to Inle Lake.
- Prepare for trekking: Once in Kalaw, organize your trek, buy supplies, and rest well. The 3-day Kalaw to Inle Lake trek is one of Myanmar's best hiking experiences.
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Pin These Moments
🎈 Balloons from Below
After flying yesterday, watching 21 colorful balloons rise over Bagan's temples from the ground was equally magical.
🛕 Temple Treasures
Exploring Shwezigon, Manuha, and Apeyadana - discovering the artistic and spiritual diversity of Bagan's pagodas.
Did you watch the balloons from the ground? Which temples were your favorites in Bagan? Are you planning to trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake? Leave us your comments below. We would love to hear from you.