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15 Top Attractions of Bagan, Myanmar

Shruti Nair
Ananda Temple
Also known as the "Westminster Abbey of Burma" for its elegant and symmetrical design, it is one of the largest and best-preserved temples in Bagan.
The temple itself is well-known for its four gold-leaf Buddha statues, each standing an impressive 30 feet tall.
The golden spire on top is visible from miles across the Bagan Plain. It is lit up at night, creating a beacon in the sky.
Sulamani Temple
This temple was built by King Narapatisihu, who found a small ruby on the ground on the Bagan Plains and built a temple in its place. Thus, giving it the name - Sulamani, meaning small ruby.
Thatbyinnyu Temple
This temple is one of the earliest two-story Buddhist temples and unlike many other temples in Myanmar, not symmetrical.
Dhammayangyi Temple
One of the four major Bagan monuments, it was built by King Narathu, also known as Kalagya Min, 'the king killed by Indians.’
Shwezigon Pagoda
An important center for prayer and reflection, this pagoda is also an excellent place for interacting with locals as they come to worship.
It has a classical golden bell shape and was one of the first of its kind to be constructed.
Htilominlo Temple
This 46-metre, three-storey temple was built in 1218, and it is said that the name is a misreading of the Pali term for 'Blessings of the Three Worlds.'
Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Bagan Plains
This is the best way to see thousands of temples scattered across the Plains of Bagan, and have an unforgettable experience.
Gu Byau Kgyi Temple
Known for containing the oldest original paintings in Bagan, this is a must-see for lovers of art, beauty, and history alike.
The interior walls and ceilings of the temple are covered with ancient murals, telling stories from the previous lives of Buddha.
Bagan Archaeological Museum
Opened in 1998, this museum explores the history of Old Bagan.
Gawdawpalin Temple
This temple is one of the biggest shrines in Bagan, and the most imposing one because of the Buddha images that can be found on the ground floor.
Mount Popa
Considered as one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in Myanmar, Mount Popa is an extinct volcano where the Popa Taungkalat Monastery is found.
Shwegu Gyi Temple
Built by Alaungsithu in 1311, this temple is a transition in architectural styles, which resulted in airy, lighter buildings.
Shwesandaw Pagoda
Experience one of the most impressive sunsets in Bagan, this pagoda has two octagonal bases and five square terraces, each topped with a stupa.
Bu Paya Pagoda
Witness a breath-taking view of the Bu Paya or the river where the pagoda is situated. Bu Paya means ‘a gourd-shaped pagoda'.

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Mani-Sithu Market
A central market for fruits, vegetables, flowers and a range of textiles. You can also buy the famous lacquer ware and woodcarvings.