The Temples of Bagan
Interests
Activities
Thatbyinnyu Temple
One of the most popular temples in Bagan is Thatbyinnyu Temple. This temple has two storeys and the Buddha image is situated at the second storey. With a height of 60 meters, this pagoda was badly damaged during the 1975 earthquake and has been renovated a few years later.
Ananda Temple
If you are looking for Bagan must visit temples, Ananda Temple is definitely one of them. With its unique architecture and white exterior, Ananda Temple is an amazing place for photographers. Inside the temple you can find four standing Buddha statues, each of them facing one cardinal direction.
Kya Zin Hpaya Temple
Even though Kya Zin Hpaya is smaller compared with the above temples, it’s definitely worth visiting. The temple is well preserved and is a great backdrop for photos.
Sunrise Temple
As the name states, the Sunrise Pagoda is one of the best temples in Bagan for watching the sunrise. Although this temple was still open when we visited (september 2018), it is most probably closed now. However, if you are looking for a beautiful, small temple this is the perfect choice.
Shwesandaw Pagoda
This five storeys high pagoda is one of the most impressive temples in Bagan. Even though climbing on Shwesandaw Pagoda is not allowed anymore, it’s definitely worth visiting.
Gawdawpalin Temple
Gawdawpalin Temple is the second largest temple in Bagan with a height of 55 meters. This is a two storey temple with an incredible legend. It is said that the king committed crimes against his ancestors and he was punished with blindness. The Gawdawpalin Temple was built as an atonement and his vision has miraculously returned.
Myauk Guni Temple
Myauk Guni is one of the most beautiful, hidden temples in Bagan. Situated right next to Taung Guni Temple (another hidden gem), this temple is extremely well preserved and it has some beautiful architectural details.
Dhammayan Gyi Temple
You can’t explore the Bagan temples without visiting the Dhammayan Gyi Temple. Although this temple was never finished, the legend says that it was supposed to be tallest temple in Bagan.
Dhammayazaka Temple
Situated at the edge of Bagan, in the middle of rice fields, Dhammayazaka Temple is mostly visited by locals (you won’t find many tourists here). This temple is a great opportunity to soak in the local culture.
Tips
Wear shoes that are easy to remove. When visiting a Buddhist shrine, it is customary to remove shoes and socks before entering. This is a sign of respect and keeps the area of worship clean. Carry shoes that slip on and off easily, even small shrines require visitors to be barefoot.
Shoulders and knees must be convered. Buddhist etiquette dictates that shoulders and knees be covered when entering a temple. Dress modestly or carry a long scarf. Longyis – a wraparound sarong worn by Myanmar men and women – are a perfect solution for concealing legs. They can be purchased for a few dollars and make nice souvenirs.
Prepare for dusty feet and legs. The dry plains of Bagan are filled with dusty roads. It’s inevitable that your feet will get powdered with a light layer as you explore. Carry a pack of wet wipes or a bottle of water to clean off feet, particularly when exiting the temples.
Carry a small flashlight. Many of the smaller, less visited temples are dim inside. Use a flashlight to illuminate the shrine, you may even discover faded ancient frescoes and paintings on the wall. Some of the taller structures have dark, narrow staircases that lead to rooftop views of the landscape.
Have cash ready for the Bagan Archaeological Zone fee. Any tourists visiting the temples of Bagan are required to pay a K25,000 ($20 USD) entry fee. There are fee desks at the airport and major ports of entry, but they only accept cash. Fear not, airports are equipped with ATM machines to retrieve Kyat.
Stupas and shrines are not jungle gyms . The ancient buildings of Bagan are still considered sacred and many are still used as active religious sites of worship. The structures are also fragile, especially with the devastating damage done by recent earthquakes. While visiting, be cautious of where you step and what you touch.
