Places to See and Stay: Bagan - Burma

Less famous than the temples at Angkor or Borobodur, Bagan is unquestionably one of the ‘must sees’ in Asia.

There are over 3,000 temples here, covering an area of over 40 square kilometres. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries and straddling the Irrawaddy River, it is easy to lose yourself amongst the stupas and pagodas at this amazing complex.

Our guides can give you in-depth tours or a more general overview, depending on your level of interest.

All tours in Bagan will include the temples of Ananda and Dhammayangyi, Shwezigon (the largest) and Thatbyinnyu (the tallest) and your guide will endeavour to take you to one of the quieter temples to watch the sunset.

Balloons over Bagan

Despite the recent construction of an unsightly observation tower, there is still, in our opinion, no better way of viewing the temples than from the spectacular vantage point of a hot-air balloon.

Usually taken at dawn, the balloon flight lasts around 45 minutes and is without doubt the best way to get an overview of this remarkable panorama.

The flights only operate in the dry season between October and March.

 
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