Magical Bagan
We rented next door to our hotel an electric bike. Everyone call them e-bikes. At a cost of 9000K (£5, 7USD), we cruised freely amongst over 2000 pagodas of all styles, sizes and various states of disrepair with some dating back to the 11th century.
We explored famous temples spread over the old Bagan including the Ananda Pahto Temple, the Dhammayangyi Temple, the Sulamani Temple, and the Shwegugyi Temple. We also got lost and found deserted ruins where most tourists will never even get close to. That was the most amusing part of the adventure.
The sacred pagodas and beautiful temples were scattered across the plains of Bagan creating a mystical and striking landscape. We saw a lot of them. Most didn't have a name. Just a number.
Finding the Perfect Sunset Spot
Most of the iconic photographs of the town were taken at sunrise or sunset with the ancient monuments silhouetted against the mountains in the backdrop. So we spent most of the day looking for the most secluded and best spot for the night. Following the August 2016 earthquake, the majority of temples and pagodas were closed due to the enormous damage they suffered. Therefore, it was difficult to find a building where we were allowed to climb on.
Luckily we found the Bulethi temple. We sat, relaxed and took in the panoramic views of endless stupas stretching off to the horizon with the sunset as background.
Essential tips for exploring Bagan
- Rent an e-bike! Best way to explore Bagan freely. Cost: 9,000 kyat (~$7 USD/day). Available at most hotels and rental shops. Range covers entire archaeological zone.
- Wake up early: Sunrise is magical in Bagan. Hot air balloons float overhead as golden light illuminates thousands of temples. Worth the 5am wake-up!
- Wear flip-flops: You'll remove shoes constantly at temple entrances. Flip-flops are most practical. Ground gets HOT - watch your step on sandy areas!
- Water essential: Bring plenty! Temperatures can reach 34°C (93°F). Limited shops between temples. Stay hydrated or you'll suffer.
- Get lost! Don't just visit famous temples. Take small dirt trails - you never know where you'll end up. Best discoveries are off the beaten path.
- Post-2016 earthquake: Many temples closed for safety after earthquake damage. Don't climb closed temples - respect barriers. Ask locals for open viewpoints.
- Entry fee (2017): $20 USD or 25,000 kyat per person for entire archaeological zone. Valid multiple days. Checkpoints at main temples. Keep ticket with you!
- Sunset spots: Find viewing temple early in day. Bulethi temple offers excellent panoramic views. Get there 1-2 hours before sunset for best position.
- Photography: Bring good camera and extra batteries. Sunrise/sunset are prime photo times. Silhouettes of temples against mountains are iconic shots.
- Famous temples: Don't miss Ananda Pahto, Dhammayangyi (largest), Sulamani, and Shwegugyi. But numbered temples often have fewer crowds and equal beauty!
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Pin These Moments
🛕 Mystical Bagan
Over 2,000 ancient temples scattered across the plains - one of Southeast Asia's most incredible archaeological sites.
🚴 E-bike Freedom
Cruising between centuries-old pagodas on an e-bike - the best way to explore Bagan's magical landscape.
🌅 Endless Stupas
Sunset from Bulethi temple - panoramic views of endless stupas stretching to the horizon. Pure magic!
Have you explored Bagan? Did you rent an e-bike? Which temple was your favorite? Did you find a good sunset viewing spot? Leave us your comments below. We would love to hear from you.