🇲🇲 Myanmar
Bagan travel guide
Bagan, Myanmar's temple wonderland, astounds with 2,000+ ancient temples across plains. This UNESCO site rivals Angkor for archaeological wonder with far fewer tourists.
Language
Burmese
Currency
Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
Timezone
MMT (UTC+6:30)
Best time
October to February
Budget/day
$30-80/day
When to visit
Jan
25–32°C
Feb
26–33°C
Mar
27–35°C
Apr
28–36°C
May
27–35°C
Jun
25–33°C
Jul
25–32°C
Aug
25–32°C
Sep
25–32°C
Oct
25–31°C
Nov
24–30°C
Dec
24–30°C
Safety
safeBagan is relatively safe for tourists. The main hazards are e-bike accidents on unpaved paths at night (no lights), heat exhaustion climbing temples in midday sun (40°C possible), and falls on steep unroped temple steps. Sunset/sunrise crowds can cause congestion at top viewing temples.
Women travellers
Archaeological zone is tourist-friendly. Dress modestly at temples.
Culture & etiquette
- + Remove shoes at all temples
- + Cover shoulders and knees
- + Hire local guide
- - Don't climb restricted temples
- - Don't disrespect Buddha images
Food to try
Mohinga
Myanmar's national dish — rice noodle soup with fish broth, lemongrass, banana flower and crunchy toppings; served at dawn near Nyaung U market
Shan Noodles
Flat rice noodles with braised pork, tomato, sesame and crispy garlic; a staple at local tea shops throughout Bagan
Laphet Thoke
Pickled fermented tea leaf salad mixed with sesame seeds, fried garlic, peanuts and dried shrimp — uniquely Burmese and available everywhere
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.