Bagan: a plain scattered with all different temples and each with its own charm. Ready to let yourself be conquered? In the post, tips for reaching and visiting the valley.
There are places in the world that enter the collective imagination as magical, fantastic, in short to see at least once in a lifetime. I want to take you to dream in one of the places that have remained in my heart and eyes the most. Let's get ready to discover the enchanted Bagan Valley.
Where is Bagan located
We are located just under 200 km from Mandalay, in the northern part of Myanmar. Bagan is one of the most visited areas in the whole country and once you reach it you will understand why.
A plain dotted with a myriad of temples, more or less large, but each with its own charm. But let's go in order.
The three areas of Bagan
Bagan is divided into 3 zones: Old Bagan, a town surrounded by city walls and the nerve center of the archaeological area; Nyaung U, located to the east and is where most budget travelers find accommodation; finally we find New Bagan, located further south and is the newest part of the area.
To visit the archaeological area you must pay an entrance ticket which is done directly upon arrival.
Bagan can be reached by plane, by boat and by bus, we have opted for the last option. Once we got off the bus we negotiated with a taxi driver to reach our accommodation in New Bagan. Halfway we paid for the ticket which is valid for 5 days.
Tips for visiting the Bagan Valley
It is a very extensive valley so to visit it better to have a means of transport.
You can admire the comfortable and peaceful temples on a bus of some organized excursion, but I recommend going on your own.
To do this there are two options: the bicycle or e-scooter, that is an electric motor. Both can be hired without any problem throughout Bagan. The first is certainly an excellent idea if you decide to visit a small area. Eventually remember to bring lots of water and a hat that will certainly not hurt.
The e-scooter, even if it has a slightly higher cost, is certainly an excellent solution. You will have much less effort and a little air will help you withstand the intense heat. The only recommendation is to check that the battery is charged and its indicator is working properly. Maybe ask for the phone number of the place where you rented the scooter or of your hotel in case there should be any problems.
Let's not forget that, for those who can afford it, there is the possibility of visiting the plain with hot air balloons.
The Temples of the Bagan Valley
Once you have decided how to move around the valley, get yourself a map, which you can easily request in your accommodation, and off you go. In any case, I also recommend that you follow your instincts and get lost among the temples scattered here and there.
Certainly not to be missed is the imposing white Andanda Pahto, at the gates of Old Bagan. Another very interesting is the Dhammayanyi Pahto, known for its bloody history, but also for its imposing beauty. Another very interesting is the Sulamani Pahto. With its 4 statues of the Buddha facing the cardinal points and the still visible frescoes, which make it one of the temples to visit.
At the end of the day, choose the one you like best and on which you can climb to the top to enjoy an unforgettable sunset. We opted for the famous Shwesndaw Paya. View to take your breath away, but I recommend you opt for a much less crowded one.
Whichever way you turn, this immense valley dotted with temples will envelop you in all its splendor and its memory will never leave you.
