24 Best Things To Do In Old Bagan, Myanmar

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Bagan is an enchanting ancient city in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. In the old times, during the 9th to 13th centuries, Bagan was acknowledged as the capital of the Pagan Kingdom. Later on, the Pagan Kingdom initiated the unification of the regions in the country that makes the Myanmar of today. Boasting of marvelous landscapes, fascinating history, and magnificent architecture, Old Bagan is a breathtaking city that everyone should see at least once or twice in their lives. Tourists can visit century-old temples and learn about the interesting culture of Myanmar while in Old Bagan. If you are planning to visit this beautiful city in Myanmar anytime soon, here is a list of fantastic things to do in Old Bagan, Myanmar. Feel free to browse below.

3. Admire the frescoes inside Abeyadana Temple

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michael Gunther used under CC BY-SA 4.0

With hundreds of temples, Bagan has a lot to offer its awed tourists. Visitors can start their exploration just south of Old Bagan, from Abeyadana Temple. A Buddhist pagoda built in the 12th century by King Kyanzittha for his wife Abeyadana, whose name means “abandoned jewel”. Legend has it, in fact, that the site of the temple constitutes the place where the queen had waited for her husband as he was serving in the army. Another theory has him hiding from his predecessor. Abeyadana—also spelled Apeyadana—was of Bengali origin; this explains the East Indian style of the beautiful frescoes found inside, depicting Hindu gods. Bring a flashlight or else you won’t be able to see them. Noteworthy is also a brick seated Buddha in the inner shrine.

Abeyadana Temple

Address: 2, Myanmar (Burma)

4. Enjoy the view from Bulethi temple

Editor’s Note: There’s no photo available at the time of writing

Bulethi temple is one of the most popular and beautifully designed pagodas in Myanmar. This Buddhist temple is not just impressive in its own right, but its location and the colors it wears when kissed by the sinking sun are enough reasons to add this to your itinerary. The pagoda is only 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the heart of Bagan. Its advantageous, hill-top position offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding area dotted with ancient structures and air balloons floating in the sky.

5. Enter the ancient, dim-lit Pitaka Taik

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Phyo WP used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Pitaka Taik, or “the library of Buddhist scriptures”, was built by King Anawrahta in 1058 to house Buddhist scriptures. Since it was designed to store light-sensitive scriptures, which have long been relocated, it has very few windows. If you’re planning on visiting, you might need a flashlight. If anything, this only adds to the experience and so does the almost anonymity of the place.

Pitaka Taik

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Price: Free

6. Marvel at the magnificent Gawdawpalin Temple

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jialiang Gao used under CC BY-SA 3.0

An impressive Buddhist temple whose construction was completed in 1227, Gawdawpalin Temple boasts three lower and four upper terraces. The two-story-tall building is the second tallest temple in Bagan. Its brick skeleton was reinforced with stone but suffered major damages during the 1975 earthquake. Thankfully, the temple was restored and it has since preserved its current look.

Gawdawpalin Temple

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Opening hours: 6am – 9pm (daily)

Price: Free

7. Pamper yourself at The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate

Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account

#Reopening #TharabarGateHotel #OldBagan မကြာမှီ ဇူလိုင်တတိယအပတ်တွင် ပြန်လည် ဖွင့်လှစ်ပါတော့မည် အနားယူ…

Posted by The Hotel at Tharabar Gate, Old Bagan on Tuesday, July 14, 2020

In the heart of Old Bagan, you will find the extra luxurious The Hotel at Tharabar Gate. With 80 deluxe rooms and 4 suites, it’s one of the best accommodations found in town. The Spa and Wellness center features an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, relaxing lounges, a zen pond, and an impressive choice of massages and treatments for all types of aches and pains. At the end of a full day in and out of temples and museums, treat yourself to a soothing massage for both your body and soul.

The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate

Address: Near Tharabar Gate, Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Website: The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate

8. Visit the splendid Ananda Temple

Source: Photo by Flickr user Chuck Moravec used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Ananda Temple is one of the four temples still standing in Bagan. A Buddhist temple that dates back to the 12th century, it features 4 gilded Buddha statues, glazed works depicting religious scenes and significant events in the life of Buddha, frescoes, and stone sculptures located on the outer corridors. In the form of a cross, the temple is highly revered among locals. Just outside is a street market with many stalls selling Burmese food, beverages, and souvenirs.

Ananda Temple and Street Market

Address: Nyaung-U, Myanmar

Opening hours: 8am – 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

9. Treat your partner to a romantic dinner at Erawati Raft

Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account

Posted by Erawati Raft on Monday, August 3, 2020

A fascinating location on the eastern bank of the Irrawady River, Erawati Raft is a floating bar that serves delicious food and signature cocktails. Visit at sunset for romantic views over the river, when the last sunrays dance on the water. Guests seem to love the attentiveness of the amiable owner and the off-the-beaten-path location of the boat. So sit back, sip on a fruity cocktail, try a fish-based dish and gaze at the star-studded sky.

Erawati Raft

Address: Dummy address

Website: Erawati Raft

Opening hours: 9am – 9pm (daily)

10. Browse through the artifacts at Bagan Archaeological Museum

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If you like learning about cultures and the heritage of cities you visit, be sure to drop by Bagan Archeological Museum while in Old Bagan. It is a fascinating museum that showcases a stunning architectural palace-like design. When you get inside, you will be left in awe with its exhibits of marvelous stone Buddhas and significant tablets of Bagan. There you’ll also find models of villages in the city as well as iconic temples. Not to mention, its garden is another beauty that will take your breath away.

Bagan Archaeological Museum

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar

Opening hours: Tue – Sun: 8am – 4:30pm (closed on Mon)

11. Visit Lacquerware Museum & Institute

Source: Max Pixel

Situated in Lacquerware Technology in Bagan, the Lacquerware Museum & Institute is another fascinating museum and attraction that you should visit while in the beautiful city of Old Bagan. Featuring a simple interior design with a cool and airy ambiance, the museum is home to ancient lacquerware items. Established in the year 1924, its main goal is to pass on to generations and generations of Myanmar people the skill of traditional lacquer-making. If you are interested in this art form, you will learn a lot at the Lacquerware Museum & Institute.

Lacquerware Museum & Institute

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Website: Lacquerware Museum & Institute

Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9:30am – 4pm; (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free admission

12. Witness the beauty of the 13th-century Maha Bodhi Phaya

Source: Photo by user David Stanley used under CC BY 2.0

Old Bagan is filled with breathtaking landmarks and marvelous temples. One of them is Maha Bodhi Phaya. Built in the mid-13th-century, during the rule of King Htilominlo, this stunning temple got its architectural inspiration from the Maha Bodhi Phaya Temple in Bihar India. Also, its design closely resembles the Maha Bodhi Pagoda in India. Lying in the heart of the old-walled Bagan, the Maha Bodhi Phaya is surrounded by gorgeous greens and features spectacular views.

Maha Bodhi Phaya

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar

14. Explore the replica of the ancient Bagan

Source: Photo by Flickr user Roderick Eime used under CC BY-ND 2.0

A historical landmark located in Old Bagan, Bagan Golden Palace is an exact replica of the ancient Bagan. Not included in the list of archaeological sites in the city, the place requires an entrance fee of three dollars from its guests. Visiting the Bagan Golden Palace will give you a glimpse of the grandiose architecture and lifestyle during ancient times. It is a fantastic place to take your family to and to take lost of souvenir pictures

Bagan Golden Palace

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Opening hours: 9am – 6pm (daily)

Price: 3 USD

15. Gorge on delicious Burmese food in Ancient Bagan Restaurant

Perhaps the best restaurant name on earth. Also one of Bagan’s trendiest spots to eat. A vegetarian menu served inside a lush garden and surrounded by ancient temples.

Posted by dobbernationLOVES on Saturday, 11 February 2017

Not only is Old Bagan an enchanting ancient city with iconic landmarks and spectacular architecture, but the food is a big part of their vibrant culture. If you get tired from all the sightseeing and museum visits, you might want to pause for a while and refuel your energy by dining at Ancient Bagan Restaurant in Taungbi. Featuring stunning views, this outdoor restaurant with a romantic ambiance serves delicious Burmese cuisine that will surely leave a mark. This place is ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers.

Ancient Bagan Restaurant

Address: Taungbi, Myanmar

Opening hours: 9:10am – 9:10pm (daily)

16. Dine at Misan Restaurant

Mutton Curry
It was delicious!
Misan Restaurant is located to the right side of road to the Bu Paya (Buu Pagoda).

Posted by Koichi Kusabuka on Saturday, 10 September 2016

Located in a peaceful and quiet area in Bagan, surrounded by lush greenery, this lovely eatery with a tropical design serves delicious and authentic traditional Burmese food. Enjoy your food in a cozy setting with the cool breeze entering the eatery and lots of natural light. Not to mention, the staff is friendly and is always pleased to be of assistance, be it about food or travel tips.

Misan Restaurant

Address: Unnamed Road Old Bagan, zwischen Gawdaw Palin und Bu Paya, Bagan, Myanmar

18. Marvel at the historic Tharabar Gate

Source: Photo by user rheins used under CC BY 3.0

Located in the ancient capital of the Burmese Empire, Old Bagan, Tharabar Gate is a historic landmark in the city. It features remains of a defensive city wall that was built around 850 AD, during the rule of King Pyinbya. Though most parts are destroyed, you can still picture its structure by what’s left of it. Adorning the outside gates are decorations of figures of Burmese gods that seem like they are guarding the walls.

Tharabar Gate

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

19. Check out Hwegugyi Temple

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Christophe95 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

You cannot end your Old Bagan adventure without checking out Shweguygyi Temple. Located in the ancient city of Old Bagan, this historic temple was built from a huge block of brick. It was believed that the construction of this marvelous temple took seven months and seven days. Translated as the Great Golden Caves in English, Shweguygi Temple is within a short distance from other temples in the city as well as from the ruins of a former royal palace.

20. Visit the stunning Lawkananda Pagoda

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A Buddhist stupa located in Old Bagan, this tiered gilded pagoda with an elongated dome is one of the many stunning structures in the city that makes up its fascinating culture and architecture. Nestled on the Ayeyarwaddy River, this pagoda was established during the rule of King Anawrahta, in the year 1059. Here you’ll find the historic tooth relic in Bagan. Be sure to drop by Lawkananda Pagoda during your visit to Old Bagan.

Lawkananda Pagoda

Address: Old Bagan, Myanmar

21. Learn about the art of lacquerware

Source: Photo by user Steve Evans used under CC BY 2.0

Before officially concluding the end of your tour, you might want to drop by Bagan House to purchase some fascinating souvenir items. Located in New Bagan, this fantastic store specializes in lacquerware products from umbrellas to pieces of furniture, to home decors, and more. Not only that, Bagan House offers tutorial services about the art of lacquerware. They are known to be a fantastic place to learn about the traditional method of lacquerware making. This is a fun activity to share with your family or friends. Bag some precious items or learn about lacquerware art at Bagan House.

Bagan House

Address: New Bagan, Myanmar

Website: Bagan House

22. Book a ride with Bagan Boat Trips

Source: andicarrilloa on Instagram

Thinking of a fantastic activity to do with your significant other or a memorable experience to share with your family and friends? Why not book a ride with Bagan Boat Trips and immerse in the culture of the city. Be left in awe with its breathtaking wonders from the comfort and convenience of a superb boat. Guests will be visiting a stunning garden by the Irrawaddy River and will get to watch the sunset as the skies turn to bright cotton candy from its pastel blue-toned hues. Check out their website and choose which of the offerings is the most ideal for the grand gesture that will surely have your loved ones thanking you by the end of the trip.

Bagan Boat Trips

Address: Unnamed Road,, Old Bagan, Myanmar

Website: Bagan Boat Trips

Opening hours: 9am – 7pm (daily)

23. Witness spectacular views with Balloons Over Bagan

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A post shared by Balloons Over Bagan (@balloonsoverbagan) on Nov 21, 2018 at 1:56am PST

If you are done with city tours and museum visits and you’re also finished with the lovely scenic boat ride with the Bagan Boat Trips, there’s another exciting way to explore the city and see it from a more spectacular perspective – a ride with the Balloons Over Bagan. Fly over the stunning temples of the ancient city of Bagan and marvel at the beauty of the city’s landscape on a safe and secure hot air balloon. Experience it with your family and friends, and be sure to take lots of souvenir pictures as this activity is definitely one for the books. Aside from Balloons over Bagan, you can also try a balloon trip over the majestic Inle Lake and balloon safaris.

Balloons Over Bagan

Address: Balloons Over Bagan Sales Office Near Hotel Zfreeti, Thiripyitsaya Block No. (5, ညောင်ဦးမြို့, Myanmar (Burma)

Website: Balloons Over Bagan

Opening hours: 9am – 8pm (daily)

Explore the ancient city of Bagan

Old Bagan is a majestic ancient city in Myanmar that boasts of charming culture, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks. It is filled with spectacular temples and places of worship that date back centuries in the past. In a city as stunning as Old Bagan, you will surely never get tired of sightseeing and picture-taking. If you are planning a trip to this side of Myanmar any time soon, use this article as your guide in planning an itinerary. Have a fantastic vacation ahead.

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