Live Your Best Lives
My favorite British author, Somerset Maugham, described his desire to escape in his travel essay "The Gentleman in the Drawing Room" this way: "I am often bored with myself, and I feel that travel can enrich me and make me a little different. When I travel, I will not be the same when I return."
Maugham was already a highly successful writer in Europe at the time, yet despite living under such a huge halo, he often felt the urge to "live elsewhere." So, at the age of 48, he decided to leave for Burma, starting from Europe and delving into this dreamy and mysterious Buddhist land.
On July 6, 2019, UNESCO officially included the ancient city of Bagan in Myanmar on the World Heritage List!
Bagancheck the details
Bagan, Myanmar's capital of pagodas, is said to have boasted over 10,000 at its peak. The city preserves numerous pagodas and temples from various historical periods. These architectural masterpieces epitomize Myanmar's ancient art, reflecting the wisdom and creativity of its working people and representing a precious part of Myanmar's cultural heritage. Bagan has weathered over 900 years of vicissitudes, though historical changes and earthquakes have diminished its former glory. However, the 2,000 pagodas and Buddhist relics that remain today bear witness to history and captivate visitors. Strolling through the approximately 25 square kilometers of ancient Bagan, pagodas of all sizes tower over the streets and alleys, creating a truly remarkable scene: "See pagodas wherever you go, encounter bodhisattvas at every step."
Recommended months: October to June of the following year
6047 recommendations, 5111 visits
Bagan is an ancient historical city in Myanmar, one of the three major Buddhist relics in Asia, and a famous tourist destination. It is located in the central part of the country, on the left bank of the middle reaches of the Irrawaddy River. The Irrawaddy River flows slowly from the north and west of Bagan.
Bagan is the capital of pagodas in Myanmar. It is said that there were more than 10,000 pagodas in its heyday. The city of Bagan retains numerous pagodas and temples built in various historical periods of Myanmar. The architectural art of the city's pagodas and temples is a microcosm of Myanmar's ancient architectural art, reflecting the wisdom and creativity of the Myanmar working people. It is Myanmar's precious historical and cultural heritage.
The Bagan area preserves numerous pagodas and Buddhist temples built in various historical periods of Myanmar. The architectural art of the city's pagodas and Buddhist temples is a microcosm of Myanmar's ancient architectural art and a precious historical and cultural heritage of Myanmar and even the world.
After more than 900 years of vicissitudes, historical changes and earthquake disasters have made it lose its former glory, but the 2,000 large and small pagodas and Buddhist relics that remain today are witnessing history and attracting tourists.
Strolling through the ancient city of Bagan, covering approximately 25 square kilometers, one can see pagodas of all sizes towering in every street corner. It's truly a case of "seeing pagodas wherever you go, encountering bodhisattvas at every step." The popular variety show "We Are Real Friends" even included a significant portion of its itinerary in Bagan during its Myanmar tour.
Ananda Temple
The largest, most complete, and most beautiful extant Buddhist temple in Bagan, it is known as the first pagoda in Bagan. Its architectural grandeur far surpasses previous pagodas and incorporates Burmese influences, heralding the end of Bagan's early style and the beginning of its middle style. Located east of the ancient city walls, it was built in 1105 and is the most complete and beautiful extant Buddhist temple in Bagan, renowned for its symmetrical and balanced beauty.
Ananda Temple is bustling with tourists and locals alike. Outside the temple, you'll often see a bustling market selling everything from sand paintings and wood carvings to postcards and clothing. The temple grounds are square, covering nearly 100 acres and are perfectly symmetrical. Long corridors lead from each side to the central courtyard. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.
The very center of the temple is the Ananda Stupa, which is about 51 meters high. The white tower body is stacked layer by layer, and the corn-ear-shaped Indian spire is covered with gold foil and inlaid with countless dazzling jewels. It looks particularly grand and dazzling under the sunlight.
The outer walls of the pagoda are covered with thousands of large and small Buddha statues and painted pottery reliefs depicting the Buddha's previous life stories. Although weathered, only the green background can be seen, the process of the Buddha's ascetic practice and meditation, which ultimately led to his enlightenment, can still be seen. Surrounding the main pagoda are numerous smaller pagodas, Buddha statues, and sculptures of various animals and mythical beasts.
The pagoda's base is a large, square, Indian-style Buddha cave. A tall gate stands on each of the east, south, and west sides, each housing a standing golden Buddha approximately ten meters tall in a different posture. The north and south statues are the original Buddhas, while the east and west statues were rebuilt after fire damage. The southern Buddha is the most breathtaking. It is said that from a distance, the Buddha's smile appears benign and gentle, but when approaching its feet and looking up, its appearance becomes remarkably majestic, inviting one to worship.
Every morning, you can see many locals and pilgrims coming here to worship and offer flowers, and the pagoda is filled with a pious atmosphere. At night, the golden top of the pagoda is illuminated by lights, and the golden light is so dazzling that it can be seen from afar. It is a major symbol of Bagan.
Inside the pagoda, there are double-layered corridors with double-layered windows for natural light. Thousands of niches dot the walls of the corridors, housing golden statues of various sizes. Beyond the pagoda is a spacious inner courtyard where you can admire the pagoda's magnificent spire up close.
Dhammayangyi Temple
The largest existing pagoda in Bagan, this brick-red pagoda can be seen from anywhere in Bagan. It is a representative of brick pagodas. The entire structure was built in imitation of Ananda Temple. Although the top of the pagoda has been damaged in the earthquake, its huge body still stands on the Bagan plain. This red brick-walled temple can be seen from all directions in Bagan.
Because the top of the pagoda has not been repaired so far, the Dhammayangyi Pagoda does not look like the pagodas in the Bagan area, but instead looks like the Egyptian pyramids. Therefore, it is known as the "Pyramid" of Bagan.
The pagoda's interlocking arches create a unique shape, and windows in the corridors allow natural light to filter in, illuminating the interior. The temple's design, with its corridors and double-glazed windows, allows for air circulation and natural brightness. The inner ring has been sealed off after the earthquake and is no longer accessible. Inside the temple's west gate, two Buddha statues sit side by side: Shakyamuni and Maitreya, said to represent Narathu and his father.
The Dhammayangyi Pagoda is said to be a pagoda of brutality. Its builder, King Narathu (45th king of the Pagan Dynasty, 1167-1170), was known for his extreme cruelty. He built the Dhammayangyi to atone for the murders of his father, Alaungsithu, and his brother, Min-Shin-Saw. King Narathu was extremely demanding in the construction of the pagoda, severing the fingers of craftsmen if the joints between the bricks were even slightly loose. Instruments of torture from that era are still displayed within the pagoda. Consequently, during the 1975 earthquake, while other pagodas suffered varying degrees of damage, the Dhammayangyi Pagoda remained unscathed.
Thatbyinnyu Temple
Also known as Thatbyin Nyu, it is the tallest pagoda in Bagan. Standing over 60 meters tall, it is the tallest pagoda in Bagan. In Burmese, Thatbyin Nyu means "Prajna," the Buddha's supreme wisdom and enlightenment. Construction took King Anawon Sehut (1112-1167 AD) over 50 years. At 66 meters, it is the second largest pagoda in Bagan.
Unlike the square shape of Ananda Stupa, the east wing protrudes outward, breaking the completely symmetrical pattern. This form was later used in many large temples, such as Sulamani.
The pagoda is divided into two levels, each with three steps of stupas, which gradually decrease in height and are decorated with battlements and small towers. The top is a tall golden pagoda. The pagoda is divided into five levels (the first and second floors were once used as residences for monks, the third floor is a meditation space, the fourth floor is a library, and the fifth floor is a Buddha).
The pagoda walls are inscribed with famous Pali hymns. A lion guards the east gate of the temple, and there are corridors inside. Two layers of windows were opened on the wall to provide sufficient light for the temple. Few murals remain, but a few remain in the west wing.
The original staircase inside the pagoda spirals up to the seven-level pagoda altar. Standing on the top of the pagoda, you can overlook the entire Bagan plain. It used to be the best place to watch the sunrise and sunset, but now tourists are no longer allowed to climb to the top, so you can only admire the appearance of the pagoda.
Shwesandaw Pagoda
Built in 1057 by the founding king Anawrathta, this early structure is a 50-meter-tall, elegant white, pyramid-like stupa with five steps. Its name means "Golden Sacred Hair Relic," after the Buddha's hair relic presented to it by King Pigu. Because of its Burmese pronunciation, it's often nicknamed "Xu Sanduo Pagoda" by Chinese tourists.
The base of Shwesandot is in the shape of a Mayan pyramid, with five floors on the square base. Two floors are brick-colored and three floors are white like the tower body. There are steep steps that lead up to the fifth platform to watch the sunset. On the fifth platform stands a bell-shaped white tower with two circles of octagonal bases on the base, forming a seven-story pagoda with the five floors below. Further up are the white tower vase and the golden spire.
This used to be the best spot for tourists to watch the sunrise and sunset, but climbing the pagoda is currently prohibited due to damage and other reasons. In a rectangular Buddhist temple next to the Shwesandaw Pagoda, you can see a 20-meter-long reclining Buddha. What makes it unique is that the entrance is narrow and the temple is cramped.
Tips:
On January 4, 2018, the Myanmar National Tourism Administration officially issued a legal document prohibiting climbing pagodas in the Bagan area. In order to protect historical relics and monuments, any individual or team is strictly prohibited from climbing the pagoda, and violators will be held accountable for legal liability.
Sulamani Pagoda
A representative work of late Bagan architecture, it has Indian characteristics. Inside the tower there is a huge brick Buddha statue and the most beautiful stucco sculptures in Bagan. It is also famous for the large number of murals preserved in the tower. It is one of the most outstanding temple attractions in Bagan and is known as the "crown jewel" among Bagan temples. In terms of artistic style, it belongs to the Indian style.
The pagoda was built by King Narapatisithu in 1183. According to historical records, when Narapatisithu ascended the throne, he saw a ruby shining in a depression and thought it was the instruction of Buddha, so he built the Gaisuramani Temple here. Therefore, the name of the pagoda also means "the jewel in the crown".
Both platforms are square, and small stupas are built in the corners of each platform, symbolizing sacred objects and expressing reverence. Currently, to protect the remains of the stupa, visitors are prohibited from ascending to the second floor and can only visit the ground floor.
The pagoda has four porches, with the largest one facing east. Each door is decorated with a small semi-relief stupa and door lintel, and numerous flames and triangular shapes are also used on the doorposts.
The walls of the Sulamani Temple are covered with ancient murals depicting the ancient Burmese hierarchy, clothing, ethnic customs, and social activities. The vibrant colors of the murals are still visible today, and this is the only temple where photography is permitted. The murals throughout the corridors, depicting the origins of Buddhism and various sacrificial practices, are truly worth admiring.
"Wherever you point your finger, there is a pagoda." There are still more than 2,000 pagodas remaining within an area of 40 square kilometers, and each pagoda has its own story.
In "We Are Real Friends," the four sisters, Big S, Little S, Aya, and Fan Xiaoxuan, go on a hot air balloon ride. Aya, afraid of heights, loses control, and the three sisters help her overcome her fear, encouraging each other to not miss the sight they'll regret forever. Together, they stroll across the plains of Bagan, watching the clouds roll in and out, and admire the pagodas enshrined in the clouds.
Come to Bagan! China-TravelNote brings you exclusive celebrity-style experiences. Head to the highest point of the Bagan Plain and gaze upon the sunrise from above. Of course, there's more than just hot air balloons; there are many other activities to choose from. Join us as we delve into the heart of Buddhism and explore Bagan.
The sunrise over Bagan, the "City of a Thousand Pagodas," has been named one of the world's ten most beautiful sights. Every year from October to April, Morandi-colored hot air balloons take off over this historic city and sacred site.
Ride in a hot air balloon and slowly rise with the awakening sun, admire this land from a God's perspective, and unveil the curtain of a new day at dawn.
Tips:
What you should know about Bagan hot air balloons:
1) Bagan is one of the top three hot air balloon destinations in the world, offering a fantastic high-altitude experience
2) There are currently only 4 hot air balloon companies in Bagan, and the number is very limited. Please book at least 2 months in advance during the peak season!
The four hot air balloon companies are distinguished by color, namely:
Ballons over BAGAN (Red Hot Air Balloon)
Golden Eagle Balloons (yellow hot air balloons)
Oriental Ballooning (Green Balloon)
STT Ballooning (Colorful Hot Air Balloons)
3) Bagan hot air balloon companies are very safe, all of them are EU flight certified and have foreign pilots
When our hot air balloon successfully lands, we will all receive our own flight certificate, the same one that celebrities get~
This is the most correct way to start your breakfast in Bagan. Face the rising sun with a delicious and rich breakfast, climb the watchtower in the morning light, watch the sky gradually brighten in the viewing hall of the watchtower filled with the aroma of breakfast, watch the hot air balloons slowly rise, wait for the sunlight and the hot air balloons to come into view together, wait for the sunlight to break through the clouds and shine on the Bagan plains, and start a new day with a sense of ritual.
"You are in the tower watching the hot air balloons rise from afar, and the people riding the hot air balloons are also looking at you." The hot air balloons flying in the sky decorate your window, and you standing in the watchtower also decorate other people's dreams.
Nowadays, climbing all pagodas is strictly prohibited in the entire Bagan area, and this watchtower, the tallest building standing on the Bagan plain, has become one of the few spots to watch the sunrise and sunset.
The Bagan area is very large and is divided into New and Old Bagan and Nyaung U. In order to explore it more deeply, some people are willing to use the power of electric vehicles or bicycles to measure the size of this land.
However, the road conditions in Bagan are not as good as expected, with most of them being dirt roads and sandy roads. For tourists who are not familiar with the road conditions, there are certain safety risks. Coupled with the scorching heat of the midday sun, this is indeed not a good method.
For a more comfortable experience, take a day trip by car to explore Bagan's carefully selected pagodas and temples, tracing their history and observing the changing styles of the stupas. You don't have to endure the scorching heat or worry about getting lost. Along the way, slow down a bit, encounter a shepherd boy herding cattle, a gentle breeze, or an unknown pagoda, and then stop to admire the scenery.
If you have already seen all the popular pagodas, why not take a ride on Bagan's most distinctive horse-drawn carriage?
Slow down and sit in a shaded and cushioned carriage to visit some large and small pagodas that you can't name. A carriage can accommodate two people, and the journey may be a bit bumpy, but it is definitely worth the experience.
You'll never know how many meticulous choices we made before finally settling on this carriage route. Unsatisfied with conventional routes, we forgo the immediate and explore untrodden paths, solely to offer you the unique experience that is quintessentially China-TravelNote.
The exclusive carriage driver will take tourists through the Bagan Pagoda Forest. This is a very charming experience. It is like traveling through several centuries to go to routes that cars cannot normally go. You can deeply experience the spectacular Pagoda Forest and the scene of the carriage traveling through the Pagoda Forest. There are also many unknown ancient villages waiting for you to discover hidden in the old city.
A hundred years later, the sunset on the river remains as beautiful as Maugham wrote: " As the day draws to a close, as if a certain emotion that once honed one's character is temporarily drowned out by worldly events, the colors quietly return, and the forests are once again lush and green. The sun sets on the other side, and a red cloud in the western sky is reflected in the quiet Irrawaddy River. There is no wave, as if the water is still. In the distance, a lone fisherman toils in a boat."
The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar's largest river, has nurtured a rich and diverse Burmese culture and is considered Myanmar's mother river. At sunset, take a boat trip on the river, admire the pagodas jutting out from both banks, and trace the origins of civilization. Let your thoughts drift on the boat, gently swaying with the ebb and flow of the tide.
Come to Bagan to pursue this moment of tranquility, come to Bagan to watch a unique daylight show, come to Bagan to find the meaning of travel in the misty pagodas, come here to enjoy your slow time.
The Bagan Pass is valid for 5 days and costs 25,000 Myanmar Kyats, about 125 RMB. (The exchange rate may vary depending on the actual exchange rate.)
Myanmar time is one and a half hours later than Beijing time, so please pay attention to adjust the time.
The Myanmar Kyat unit is KYAT, abbreviated as "K" and pronounced as (JIA). The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 1400 Myanmar Kyats and 1 RMB = 200 Myanmar Kyats (as of June 2018).
Currency Exchange: Since you can't directly exchange Myanmar Kyat in China, it's recommended to exchange US dollars or bring RMB. Myanmar Kyat is the primary currency used locally, but US dollars are also accepted, and small denominations of US dollars are more convenient.
Note: Myanmar has strict requirements for US dollars. When exchanging US dollars at a bank, tell the bank staff and they will give you new US dollars, because the local requirement is that the US dollars must be neat, without creases or graffiti.
UnionPay: ATMs at banks like AYA, CB, and KBZ in Myanmar all accept UnionPay, and most have simplified Chinese menus. However, Myanmar charges a 5,000K handling fee for each withdrawal.
Credit card: Myanmar's banking system is underdeveloped and the use of bank cards is not yet popular. Whether it is a shopping mall, restaurant or hotel, credit cards are basically not accepted and you need to pay directly in cash.
Cost: Myanmar is generally affordable, and most meals are included. Besides buying some drinks, snacks, and fruit, there's little to no other expenses. If you don't have any shopping needs, bringing $100-200 USD is sufficient.
Myanmar has a tropical monsoon climate. From October to June of the following year, it is Myanmar's dry season, which is good weather for travel, but it also has the most tourists.
July to September is generally considered the rainy season, but it's concentrated along the Andaman Sea coast, with less rainfall in the Bagan area. Rain typically arrives and departs quickly, and the air after rain is clear and fresh, often resulting in more beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Furthermore, the rain makes crops and plants appear lush and green throughout the season, leading locals to refer to this season as the Green Season. Because many travelers misunderstand the summer rainy season in July and August, Myanmar actually sees fewer tourists during this time, offering a more tranquil experience and allowing for a more enriching experience.
It is recommended to wear short-sleeved T-shirts and shorts, but please also bring a thin jacket or sun-protective clothing. Firstly, the air conditioning on the plane and bus is sufficient. Secondly, due to the climate, it is cooler in the morning and evening, and you will need a jacket to watch the sunrise in Bagan.
However, please note that when entering temples and pagodas, no revealing clothing is permitted. Men should avoid tank tops, and women should avoid tank tops. Pants or skirts that reach below the knee are also recommended. For convenience, a short-sleeved T-shirt and thin pants or a knee-length skirt are recommended. Also, since shoes must be removed when entering and exiting temples and pagodas, slippers or sandals are more convenient.
The Burmese believe that shoes are the dirtiest of items, so there is a strict taboo when entering a Buddhist temple or pagoda: shoes must be removed, and even socks are not allowed. In the hearts of the Burmese, pagodas and Buddhist temples are the most sacred places, and monks are the representatives of the Buddha. Therefore, wearing the dirtiest shoes is strictly prohibited when worshiping Buddha, climbing pagodas, or meeting monks.
Burmese people believe that the head is the most noble part of a person, so they generally don’t like others touching their heads.
Myanmar's tourist areas are very safe. Almost everyone in Myanmar is a Buddhist. The people are peaceful, kind, and simple, and the public security is good.
Secondly, there are indeed occasional armed conflicts in a few areas of Myanmar, mainly concentrated along the China-Myanmar border. Although we in China often hear about armed conflicts in Myanmar, the main reason for the conflict is that the conflict areas are close to China. As an ordinary Chinese tourist, you cannot visit these remote areas of Myanmar's armed conflict. Any area with armed conflict is a travel restricted zone.
