Bagan, Myanmar-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Nyaung U Airport and take a taxi or horse cart to your hotel ( approx. 30-40 minutes)
  • Check-in at The Hotel Umbra or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Ananda Temple, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved temples in Bagan (entry fee: $25 per person)
  • Explore the surrounding area, taking in the stunning views of the ancient city
  • Stop by the Bagan Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region

Evening

Day 2: Temple Hopping

Morning

  • Visit Dhammayangyi Temple, the largest temple in Bagan and a must-see for its stunning architecture (entry fee: $25 per person)
  • Explore the Sulamani Temple, known for its intricate carvings and ornate decorations

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Mahabodhi Temple, a beautiful example of Indian-style Buddhist architecture
  • Visit the Bupaya Pagoda, a small but picturesque temple on the banks of the Irrawaddy River

Evening

Day 3: Village Life and Sunset

Morning

  • Visit the Min Nan Thu Village, a traditional rural village where you can learn about local customs and way of life (entry fee: $5 per person)
  • Explore the village, interacting with locals and learning about their daily lives

Afternoon

  • Take a break from temple-hopping and enjoy some downtime at your hotel or by the pool

Evening

  • Watch the sunset from Shwesandaw Pagoda, one of the most popular spots in Bagan (entry fee: $25 per person)
  • Enjoy a traditional Myanmar snack, such as fried insects or grilled corn, from a local vendor

Day 4: More Temples and Local Life

Morning

  • Visit the Htilominlo Temple, known for its stunning stucco carvings and ornate decorations (entry fee: $25 per person)
  • Explore the Myazedi Pagoda, home to two ancient stone inscriptions

Afternoon

  • Take a trip to the nearby Nyaung U Market, where you can shop for souvenirs or try some local street food
  • Visit the Lacquerware Workshop, where you can learn about traditional Myanmar crafts

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Starbeam Restaurant
  • Take a leisurely walk around the hotel or explore the nearby area

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring any temples you may have missed
  • Check-out of your hotel and take a taxi or horse cart to Nyaung U Airport (approx. 30-40 minutes)

Things to Know

  • Dress Code: Respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting temples.
  • Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Currency: The local currency is Myanmar Kyat (MMK). You can exchange money at the airport or at local banks.
  • Language: Burmese is the official language, but many locals speak English. Learn some basic phrases like “mingalaba” (hello) and “kyay zu” (thank you).

Transportation

  • Horse Carts: A fun and traditional way to get around Bagan (approx. $10-$15 per person for a 1-hour ride).
  • Taxis: Available at the airport and in town (approx. $5-$10 per ride).
  • Bicycles: Rent a bike and explore the ancient city on your own (approx. $5-$10 per day).

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and avoid pointing with your feet.
  • Negotiate Prices: When shopping at markets or taking horse carts, be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring refillable water bottles and stay hydrated in the hot sun.

Other Things of Interest

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Bagan (approx. $300-$400 per person).
  • Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Myanmar dishes at a local cooking class (approx. $20-$30 per person).
  • Day Trip to Mt. Popa: Visit the stunning Mt. Popa, an extinct volcano with breathtaking views (approx. $50-$70 per person).