As the ancient chronicles stated, there were once 4446 temples over its wide plains but today paper from UNESCO in 1998 only record 2230 remaining. King Anawrahta, who ruled from 1044 to 1077, initiated the building of temples on this vast plain. With hardly a trace of cement in the fine masonry work, windows arranged to throw rays of sunlight directly onto the faces of massive Buddha and massive roofs held up by clever use of arches and barrel vaults, many of the temples were architecturally stunning and still inspired to visitors.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore the famous landmarks of Bagan – such as Shwezigon Pagoda and Ananda Temple – by foot, horse cart, bicycle, e-bike or car.

Get a bird’s-eye view of the ancient plain as the early morning mist rises from the Ayeyarwady or as the sun goes down over the river, either by indulging in a hot-air balloon ride or simply climbing to the upper terraces of a well-positioned temple.

Visit a local lacquerware factory to see how skilled artisans create the beautiful objects seen in souvenir shops throughout Myanmar.

Set aside an extra day for a trip to Mt Popa to commune with the nats (spirits) and climb to the top of the mountain through forested parkland.

Today luxurious riverside accommodation in Bagan will bring a fabulous chance for visitors to relax with cocktails and watch the sunset over the Ayeyarwady River after a busy day of touring the temples.