- Duration
- 10 days / 9 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $7,400
Bagan
For several centuries, Bagan was the capital of the eponymous Bagan kingdom, a powerful empire that first conquered and consolidated the territory of modern-day Myanmar. During this time, Bagan became a prosperous, cosmopolitan city, drawing visitors and travelers from across Southeast Asia. Additionally, over 2,000 ancient temples, stupas, and palaces were erected by the Bagan Empire - many of which still stand today, concentrated on a single plain along the banks of the Irrawaddy River.
Highlights of any trip to this city include cruises on the Irrawaddy River, long a vital artery of the region; a hike up Mount Popa, whose 4,000 foot (1,219 meter) summit is adorned with temples; and viewing the myriad temples through the morning mist.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Ananda Temple
With its stunning glided spire, the Ananda temple is nearly 1,000 years old and is famous for its four statues of different manifestations of the Buddha, corresponding to the cardinal directions. Though the original structure was severely damaged in an earthquake in 1975, the temple has been completely restored to its former glory.
Hot-Air Balloon over Bagan
A hot-air balloon ride is a perfect complement to ground touring and is arguably the single best way to take in the full splendor of Bagan’s temple-studded landscape.
Irrawaddy River Cruise
Board a simple, private boat and cruise up the Irrawaddy River, a scenic stretch with vestiges of bucolic Burmese life on the riverbanks. Stop at Sae Lan, one of the riverside villages where the residents’ main source of livelihood is farming and fishing.
Kubyaukkyi Temple
Dating back to 1113. Kubyaukkyi Temple is best known as the home of the Myazedi Stone, also known as “Burma’s Rosetta Stone.” Discovered in 1887, the stone contains inscriptions in the four 12th-century languages – Burman, Mon, Pali, and Pyu – and allowed the translation of the latter for the first time ever.
Mount Popa
Visit Mt. Popa, a soaring volcanic peak dramatically crowned with gold stupas, monasteries and shrines believed to be the abode of the powerful nats, or animist spirits. The devout worship of these animist spirits coexists with Buddhism, and Buddha is considered the greatest of the 37 nats. Mt. Popa is an important destination for pilgrims, who must remove their shoes before climbing the 777 steps to the summit rising almost 4,000 feet above the desert.
Nyaung-U Market and Private Cooking Class
Visit Bagan’s vibrant Nyaung-U market, where a wide range of exotic fruits, vegetables, fish, and more are sold. Select ingredients and then proceed to one of Bagan's best restaurants, situated on the banks of the Irrawaddy, for a private cooking class where you'll learn how to prepare traditional Burmese dishes.
Shwezigon Temple
One of the oldest pagodas in Bagan, Shwezigon was built as a center of prayer and reflection for the new Theravada faith, established here in the 11th century. It encompasses three tiered terraces, with four 12-foot high bronze Buddhas surrounding the terrace stairs, and includes replicas of Buddha’s footprints.
Myanmar Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.
Bagan Itineraries
- Duration
- 13 days / 12 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $9,900
- Duration
- 14 days / 13 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $10,200
- Duration
- 14 days / 13 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $14,700
- Duration
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $3,500
- Duration
- 12 days / 11 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $93,100
- Duration
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $3,600
Anavila Bagan
Anavila Bagan is a five-star property comprised of seven exclusive villas, designed to reflect Bagan's UNESCO-accredited heritage. Each of the riverside villas and residences are unique in interior and space, with chosen decor showcasing Burmese and wider Asian cultures, and antique pieces set against a contemporary aesthetic. All accommodations include panoramic windows as well as a private veranda and/or roof terrace, which look out over the treetops to the temples and river nearby. Hotel facilities include an outdoor infinity-style saltwater...
Aureum Palace Hotel
Set back in 27 acres of lush, tropical gardens, The Aureum Palace Hotel is a tranquil retreat in the heart of Bagan. Spacious villas lace the resort’s expansive gardens and are lavishly appointed with hand-crafted teak furnishings, antiques and local artifacts. Dining options are extensive. For traditional Myanmar and Thai cuisine, visit The Shan, or for Italian cuisine and wines, dine at Casa D’Enzo. Casual cocktails and lighter fare are available at the resort’s many outdoor patios and cafes and...
Road to Mandalay
The Road to Mandalay cruisers offers the opportunity to explore Myanmar in style, aboard a beautiful, sumptuous, floating accommodation. Spend three to 11 nights aboard the Road To Mandalay and experience the treasures of the Ayeyarwady River. This boat offers spacious, airy en-suite cabins, tastefully designed with guests’ comfort in mind. Breakfast is available in the room, while full buffet lunches and exquisite international dinners are served each day in the restaurant with delicious wine pairing options, to add a...
Sanctuary Ananda
The Sanctuary Ananda seeks to truly cater to guests’ every need whilst delivering gorgeous, uninterrupted views of the stunning Burmese scenery, in tastefully decorated, elegant surroundings. A choice of 20 cabins, all of which face outwards with a balcony, are all equipped with air conditioning and WiFi, with en-suite bathrooms featuring top quality toiletries. Guests can enjoy local and international cuisine, buffet and a la carte, al fresco or in the Talifoo restaurant; drinks can be enjoyed in the lounge...
Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel
Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel is a grand property situated on the banks of the evocative Irrawaddy River, in the ancient city of Bagan. This charming, classically decorated hotel was originally established thirty years ago by the Myanmar government, and the property is now under Japanese management. The hotel has since undergone extensive renovation, upgrading and expansion. Set in a beautiful riverfront location, amongst 24 acres of well-landscaped gardens, this hotel is a truly luxurious sanctuary. The Resort has been host to international political and business leaders and celebrities, and is considered to be Bagan’s foremost hotel. Guest rooms are spacious and tastefully appointed. Every room is thoughtfully decorated in a traditional Myanmar style using local materials and teak wood. The hotel boasts superlative cuisine, a spa, a lounge bar, a coffee shop, Jaccuzzi and the biggest outdoor pool and sundeck in the area. A choice collection of Myanmar souvenirs is offered at “The Thiripyitsaya Boutique," located next to the Reception. Hand-woven lotus fabric, antique lacquer ware, originally designed jewellery, photographs and artwork, handicraft, silverware, longyi, books and postcards, as well as film, sunblock, bathing suits and other practical goods are available.
Multi-Country Specialists
Myanmar Goes Well With
Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Trekking the Shan Hills with the Palaung People of Northern Myanmar
- Author
- Elisha Donkin
A trek through the Shan Hills of Myanmar leads to incredible scenery, historical perspective, and a deep, abiding understanding of the Palaung of Northern Myanmar.
Read Article
The Jews of Yangon: A Look at Myanmar’s Smallest Religion
- Author
- Ronan O'Connell
The Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue serves a small, tight-knit community of 20, but the story and heritage of this site draws travelers from around the globe.
Read Article
Four Luxe Riverboat Cruises in Myanmar
- Author
- Jim Algie
Myanmar riverboats have been traveling the Irawaddy since Burma's colonial days, and these four are the premier luxury options for discerning travelers.
Read Article
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
A couple from Germany
Remote Lands was absolutely first rate. Everything went very smoothly and more than fulfilled our expectation.
