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Review About Our Bagan Itinerary - Experience And Travel Tips In Bagan

Friday, January 12, 2024 Experiences of customers Heidi

Hello, I'm John Watt from England. In February 2023, I embarked on a memorable journey to Myanmar with my friends. I am very passionate about Buddhism, so exploring Asia has been a long-standing desire and Myanmar has exceeded all my expectations. This trip with many unforgettable memories was an interesting experience in my life. Allow me to share my Myanmar trip, beginning with Bagan—the realm of temples and pagodas in Asia. The stunning architecture of the city's Buddhist temples and pagodas showcases Myanmar's ancient architectural artistry. I will tell you the details of my Bagan itinerary and some advice for you when planning a Bagan trip.

I. What to bring when traveling to Bagan?
II. Getting around Bagan
III. My Bagan itinerary
IV. Details of my 2 days In Bagan itinerary
- 1. Day 1
- 2. Day 2
V. Advice for Bagan trip

I. What to bring when traveling to Bagan?

Ensuring a well-prepared Bagan itinerary involves being equipped with all the necessary packing.

Clothing: Bagan's warm and humid climate suggests light clothing, but with respect for local customs, especially when visiting temples, you need to dress modestly. Men should opt for long pants, while women should choose to dress covering shoulders, chests, and knees. Cotton and khaki fabrics strike a balance between modesty and heat.
Mask: For a journey through Bagan's dusty roads, a mask is essential, accompanied by sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and essential medicines for potential health issues.
Smartphone & backup charger: Photography enthusiasts should pack extra memory cards and a spare battery, anticipating limited power supply scenarios. As hotels lack safety deposit boxes, the safety of valuable equipment depends on personal vigilance. A smartphone with a backup charger ensures connectivity and convenience.
Internet: Upon arrival at the airport, obtaining a 4G SIM card facilitates internet access.
Additionally, wearing flip-flops or easily removable shoes is practical, given the need to go barefoot when entering temples.

Travelers should remain mindful of these considerations to enhance their Bagan trip.

II. Getting around Bagan

The best way to explore famous places in Bagan is by electric bicycle. I had it easy to rent from the hotel I stayed at. In addition, you can also rent at motels or travel agencies near you. Daily rental prices typically range from 5,000 to 10,000 MMK (approximately 5 – 10 USD. Newer bikes command higher rates. Our hotel provided the e-bike for the entire day for 6,000 MMK. The accommodating hotel staff were ready to assist even for early departures at 5 am. Renting e-bikes in Myanmar is entirely legal for foreigners, and there's no need for an international license. A copy of your local license or passport suffices, granting you the freedom to explore. These bikes, with moderate horsepower, can reach speeds of around 50 kmph. Despite my limited expertise in motorbikes, I found them to be responsive and easy to handle, providing a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

E-bikes are user-friendly, but if dusty roads pose a challenge, alternative options include hiring a private driver or opting for a horse-drawn carriage. However, these alternatives come at a higher cost. Regular bicycles are not recommended due to Bagan's extensive terrain and sweltering temperatures.

Seeing Bagan by e-bike

III. My Bagan itinerary

We booked a tour from Autour Asia - a famous travel agency in Vietnam. They arranged a great schedule based on our wishes. You can refer to this schedule when planning a Bagan itinerary.

Day 1:
- Sunrise at Shwesandaw Pagoda
- Ananda Temple
- Traditional Burmese lunch at Sunset Garden Restaurant
- Visiting the National Archaeological Museum
- Sunset at Thatbyinnyu Temple

Day 1

Day 2:
- Bagan Hot Air Balloon Ride within 45 minutes
- Quick stop at Mani Sithu Market
- Cooking Class and lunch
- Visiting the Lacquerware workshop
- Seeing Bagan by electric bike

Day 2

Take a look at the following tours:
>>Tour package in Myanmar
>>Myanmar Travel itinerary 2 weeks

IV. Details of my 2 days In Bagan itinerary

Upon stepping into the enchanting realm of Bagan, a myriad of activities await, extending beyond the 2000 ruins of religious monuments scattered across the plain. Below are my details of activities to improve your experience when planning your 2 days in Bagan itinerary.

1. Day 1

Sunrise at Shwesandaw Pagoda

As the sun began its ascent in the sky, our first destination was the renowned Shwesandaw Pagoda - one of the famous places in Bagan, celebrated for its captivating sunrise and sunset views. Climbing the pagoda is currently prohibited due to the safety of visitors. Its beauty and symmetrical design remain undeniable and visitors need to leave their shoes outside the complex. The pagoda was completed in the 11th century with five terraces constructed with terracotta tiles in 1057. Serving as a venue for significant Buddhist ceremonies, this sacred site stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of remarkable structures over a millennium, remarkably preserved here.

There were also many shops around there. We discovered one place next to this exquisite structure, offering fantastic photo opportunities. As the sun painted the sky in hues of pink and orange, the spectacle was enhanced by the ascent of the hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar. We were very excited to admire the hot air balloons floating in the sky.

Visiting Temple Ananda

Our preferred destination among all the attractions in Bagan is the renowned Temple Ananda. There are detailed information boards about the temple's restoration just outside. This temple is often hailed as Bagan's most exquisite and well-preserved. The knowledgeable guide enlightened us about the two original Buddhas among the four, each facing a different direction.

Within the complex, numerous smaller shrines showcase Buddha figures in various sitting and standing postures, accompanied by paintings adorning the walls. The main shrine has stunning painted windows and sculptures. The corridors and areas surrounding the temple are dotted with shops of Burmese handicrafts, clothing, lacquerware, .... As the primary temple in Bagan, Temple Ananda attracts a steady flow of visitors, including devoted worshippers presenting flowers at the Buddha shrines. They kneel before the silent Buddhas, offering flowers and whispered prayers, their faces etched with a timeless devotion. Time seems to lose its grip here, replaced by a serene presentness. If time allows, an exploration of this bustling and culturally rich temple is highly recommended.

Traditional Burmese lunch at Sarabha Restaurant

Upon our Burmese guide's recommendation, we had lunch at the Sarabha Restaurant and it proved to be an ideal choice. It gave us a wonderful dining experience. Its menu has traditional Burmese, Thai and Chinese dishes, suitable for many tastes.

During our lunch, I enjoyed the delicious soup and cashew chicken. We found that local dishes such as fried rice with chicken and vegetables were very delicious. I particularly enjoyed a serving of boiled veggies and chicken curry, both bursting with freshness and delicious flavors. Great value for money.

Visit the Bagan Archaeological Museum

The Bagan Archaeological Museum is a delightful deviation from our temple-hopping adventures of my Bagan itinerary with a refreshing and cool escape from the heat. It has an impressive array of artifacts of Bagan like Buddha statues, original images, engraved stones and meticulously recreated murals.

Among the highlights were the "Rosetta Stone" of local languages—a large pillar inscribed in four different local languages—and a captivating display showcasing local hairstyles. This museum has detailed models which show the old temple's complex architecture. In particular, the room displaying the Buddha statue is the most interesting part to explore. I have a deep understanding of religion during the Bagan period. Our two-hour visit was not enough to fully explore the richness and diversity of the museum and we wished we had more time.

Sunset at Thatbyinnyu Temple

Thatbyinnyu Temple claims the title of the tallest structure in Bagan - one of the most famous places in Bagan, erected in 1144. Its name is translated as “Omniscience”, symbolizing the enlightenment that Buddha achieved.

Sunset in Bagan unfolds as a truly enchanting spectacle. The views, evolving slowly, never lose their charm. Thatbyinnyu Pagoda has an old tower containing stories of centuries past, standing proudly on a bright orange fabric background. Thatbyinnyu Temple, a magnificent Buddhist wonder, radiates a peaceful atmosphere. As the sun descends, it bathes everything in a warm glow, transfiguring the landscape into an impeccable panorama. The silhouette of a majestic tree graces the splendor of nature, adding an extra layer of allure to this enchanting scene.

Sunset at Thatbyinnyu Temple

2. Day 2

Hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar within 45 minutes

Our morning commenced before the break of dawn as we were chauffeured from our hotel to the take-off point, a field located just beyond Old Bagan. In the pre-sunrise ambiance, we sipped on coffee and savored cookies while witnessing the inflation of about ten balloons with air, subsequently heated by the furnace within each balloon. As the sun emerged on the horizon, our balloon ascended from the ground, initiating our hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar.

The morning mist blanketed the landscape below. Over forty-five minutes, we drifted above Bagan, beholding a breathtaking sight below. More than 2000 Buddhist and Hindu temples, vast fields of cotton and peanuts, and numerous palm trees painted a vibrant tapestry beneath us. One of the quintessential experiences in Bagan is witnessing both sunrise and sunset over the temples, and there's no vantage point more captivating than that from a hot air balloon. The highlight of our visit to Bagan was seeing the countless temples from a high perspective with vast views of this tropical region.

It is advisable to refer to the following circuits:
>>Myanmar Day Trips
>> Hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar

Quick stop at Mani Sithu market

Markets have a special appeal for us as we get an authentic glimpse into local life and discover handmade products and taste unique delicacies. This morning, we needed to buy the ingredients that are going to be used for the cooking class. Once again, we had the chance to explore Bagan without the usual crowds. A stroll through Mani Sithu Market emerged as the perfect activity.

Situated in downtown Nyaung-U, the Mani Sithu Market stands as the primary local market of the town, showcasing an array of goods from fresh fish to cooking oil and betel nuts. Mani Sithu Market sells daily essential items, in addition to souvenirs. Countless stalls beckon with exquisite handicrafts, lacquerware, textiles, and traditional longyis. During our visit, I couldn't resist the allure of beautifully crafted bracelets, now these cherished souvenirs are still new.

Market stall of Mani Sithu

Golden Ladle Cooking Class & Restaurant

Our culinary adventure of my Bagan itinerary was a delightful experience, as we found ourselves welcomed into the home of our hosts, who had ingeniously set up an outdoor kitchen and dining area. It's an experience that promises not only the joy of cooking but also a super delicious lunch. In this authentic cooking class, we prepared typical Burmese dishes with ingredients we bought in the morning. The cooking process was in traditional pots on the charcoal stove to maintain the traditional flavor. From curries to vegetables, salads and sauces, we eagerly participated in every step and felt great satisfaction in preparing each dish.

Among the array of delectable creations, my personal favorite emerged as the pork curry paired with a tantalizing accompaniment of spicy gooseberry and chili. As we all gathered to share the fruits of our labor, a communal feast unfolded, accompanied by lively conversations about Bagan. Despite the heat of the kitchen, the authenticity of the experience and the warmth of our hosts made it a memory we cherished.

Golden Ladle Cooking class

Visit Lacquerware workshop

In the afternoon, our curiosity led us to the renowned Chan Thar Lacquerware Workshop which is famous for the art of lacquerware. Located in the town of Myinkaba, famous for its exquisite lacquerware, this shop sells products made using traditional techniques. Lacquerware comes in many varieties, from kitchen utensils to exquisite decorations.

Lacquerware in Bagan

The complex process from lacquer treatment to hand carving and shaping is very meticulous. Watching the artisans at work, we better understood the skills needed to create these masterpieces. I took a close look and realized that black, yellow, green and red were the most popular colors in lacquer. Our appreciation for this age-old craft deepened when we witnessed the skillful hands that went into making these pieces. Attracted by the beauty and craftsmanship, we chose to purchase a few lacquerware items as treasured souvenirs of our Bagan trip.

Traditional technique of lacquerware workshop

Seeing Bagan by e-bikes

After that, because we still had a lot of free time, we decided to explore the wonders of Bagan on our own. However, foreigners are restricted from renting or riding motorbikes there. Amidst the dust and allure of this ancient city, we opted for the e-bike experience, a slow and quiet electric counterpart to traditional motorbikes. Foreigners, prohibited from renting motorcycles, discovered the e-bike as a perfect alternative to weave through Bagan's dusty trails. E-bikes are available at most hotels or local shops in Nyaung U. They are quite reasonable at around 5,000 kyat or (£3.20) per day, providing around eight hours of battery life. As we embarked on our e-bike adventure, the initial shaky start gave way to a newfound confidence with each passing moment.

V. Advice for Bagan trip

Bagan is a destination that should not be missed on your trip to Myanmar. These are the tips of my Bagan itinerary that I want to share with you. Hope they will be useful to make your trip go smoothly.

Tipping Advisory – While there are tempting photos on social media of individuals climbing various pagodas to witness the sunrise with the hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Myanmar, it's important to note that climbing on most pagodas is now prohibited and not recommended. Even if there are no visible signs prohibiting climbing, it's both dangerous and disrespectful. Fortunately, a few pagodas are still open for climbing, but these allowances change periodically to safeguard the temples from excessive foot traffic. To stay updated, it's advisable to trust local guidance, as caretakers or families often oversee the temples. You can tip them a few hundred kyats and they will take you to the pagoda where you can climb to see the view of Bagan.

Timing is Crucial – To make the most of your Bagan experience, it's advisable to start early and stay late. Beat the crowds by venturing out in the early morning before 6 am when the air is cooler and the lighting is ideal for photography. After your morning exploration, seek refuge in a cooler spot for lunch. Return to the temples around 4 pm for a mesmerizing sunset. Plan to be at your chosen temple early to avoid traffic congestion caused by tourist buses, horse-drawn carriages, and ox carts. This also allows you to assess lighting conditions from various angles and secure the best vantage point before the influx of tourists.

Culinary Delights: While Bagan may be pricier than other parts of Myanmar, affordable rice and noodle dishes are readily available.
Other advice: Dehydration is a significant concern in Bagan, so it's crucial to carry an ample water supply. While mosquitoes aren't a major issue, applying bug repellent helps fend off pesky bites. Avoid areas with dense foliage and stay vigilant for snakes, as snake bites can pose a risk for you.

All are my Bagan itinerary and tips. I hope you will have a great experience in Bagan like I did. I hope you will have as great an experience in Bagan as I did. Given the vastness of the area, plan a day of exploring the temple with sunset and sunrise views. You can contact Autour Asia and I believe your trip will go smoothly and be enjoyable.

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>>Yangon Travel Guide
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