Bagan is home to thousands of ancient temples and pagodas, dating as early as the 9th century. Discovering temples and seeing locals pray is one interesting thing to do when visiting this archeological zone. Since Bagan has over thousands of temples ,here is the list of must visit temples in Bagan that we have sorted out for you which you may find interesting.
1. Shwesandaw Pagoda
Because of the view surrounding the temples, the Shweandaw Pagoda temple is often found crowded at sunrise. The panoramic view from Shwesandaw Pagoda is majestic and one of the best that you can find in Asia. Once the crowds dissipate, you can climb the steep steps and see every bit of the temple.
2. Sulamani Guphaya
Often left behind by many tourists, the Sulamani Guphaya is a must visit as it contains some of the hidden gems that needs to be explored. This hidden treasure represents some of the best ornamental works that are carved in stucco on moldings. As you walk through the gateway, it feels like you are entering a whole new world.
3. Dhammayangyi Temple
Amongst all the temples found in Bagan, the Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest of all. It is one of the most popular places amongst the tourists that would make you feel like you are in one of the Hollywood films. From the top or a distance, the temple looks like an Egyptian pyramid. Many locals think that the temple is haunted because of the sins of the ruthless king Narathu who killed his queen, brother and father.
4. Shwezigon Pagoda
Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the popular temples in Bagan among the monks and the travellers. Many tourists consider and relate the Shwezigon Pagoda temple with the Shwedagon of Yangon but the truth is that this was built earlier. The temple is considered to be one of the most significant temples in Bagan.
5. Ananda Temple
Ananda temple was built in 1091 but was shattered after an earthquake in 1975, however it was fully restored and back in its form as well. Entering the temple gives exactly the same exciting feeling like entering Disney World. The location is ideal for bus tours where you can also find a market that is set up. Once you go through all that, you can find a peaceful spot to sit at the courtyard and admire the exterior of the temple.
6. Thatbyinnyu Temple
Comparing it with other famous monuments of Bagan, the Thatbyinnyu Temple is known to be famous as the tallest buildings in Bagan. The best feature of the temple is that no matter whatever angle you try for capturing the picture, it will always give you the best shot.
7. Lawkaoushaung Temple
If you want to skip the crowds to watch the sunrise in Bagan, there is no other better place to go than lawkaoushaung temple. This beautiful “secret” temple lies West of the Shwesandaw Pagoda. You can go as early as 5am in the morning and look for the caretaker to give you the keys to go up. If you are able bodied and want to get the best views away from the tree, you can try to climb up one more floor like what we did!
8. North Guni Temple
Skip the sunset crowd again from Shwesandaw temple! Located smack in the middle of nowhere in the ancient city of Bagan lies Guni Temple. It has 2 temples North and South Guni. South Guni temple is restricted for visitors while North guni is best for viewing the sunset with lesser crowd! We advise anyone to go to the top most floor earlier than usual since crowds may also be a dozen and seats are limited!
