Nyaung-U (Bagan) Sightseeing

Nyaung-U’s sightseeing options are dominated by the wealth of pagodas and temples. Shwezigon Paya is considered the most important, and local legend says that some of the Buddha’s bones and a tooth are preserved inside. Thatbyinnyu is the highest temple in Bagan and features an impressive Buddha statue.

Kyanzitthar Temple
This temple, which is believed to have been built in the late 11^th century, represents the Buddha’s endless wisdom. The western sanctum of the temple features life-size statues of the founder of the temple as well as footprints of the Buddha on pedestals. Kyanzitthar’s design has a central square with sides of over 50m long, rising in an array of terraces that stretch to the crown at around 50m high. It’s a spectacular sight with the centre of the square displaying four large Buddha images. To cap it all, the terraces are decorated with tiles that depict scenes from the Buddha’s life.

Manuha Temple
Manuha Temple is another 11^th century temple built by Manuha, the Mon King of Thaton, in 1059. Manuha was held captive in Bagan after Anawratha had conquered the Mon kingdom. The main features of this temple are the reclining Buddha and three seated Buddha images in very small enclosures. The small spaces are said to represent Manuha’s feelings about being held prisoner.

Shwezigon Paya Temple
Shwezigon Paya is considered to be Bagan’s most important pagoda. The locals believe that some relics of the Buddha are preserved inside, namely a tooth and a number of bones. As a result, this pagoda is one of the most important religious shrines and pilgrim destinations in Myanmar, and not purely an archaeological site. Construction of the pagoda spanned a number of years beginning in the 11^th century under the rule of King Anawratha, but the temple wasn’t finished until the reign of his son, King Kyanzittha.

Sulamani Temple
The Sulamini Temple was built by Narapatisithu in 1181 and is a good example of a sophisticated temple design, similar to Htilominlo and Gawdawpalin. In its day the temple was known for its stunning frescoes, but today only a few traces of these artworks can be seen. The temple is located just beyond the Dhammayangyi Temple.

Thatbyinnyu Pahto Temple
Rising to a height of over 60m, Thatbyinnyu is the highest temple in Bagan. It was built by Alaungsithu in the 12^th century and features a large Buddha statue and artistic masonry. There is a smaller pagoda located northeast of the Thatbyinnyu that was built using one brick for every 10,000 bricks in the larger temple. The monastery south of Thatbyinnyi contains some of the stonework that once supported the temple’s bronze bell.

Upali Thein
Bagan is known for its many temples and pagodas, but there are very few thein (ordination halls). Traditionally, thein were constructed from wood and so few have survived over the centuries. Upali Thein is one of the few that were brick built. Built in the mid-13^th century in honour of a famous monk, during the reign of Htilominlo, the most interesting feature in the hall is the Buddha statue in the Bhumisparsha-mudra posture, calling the earth to recognise his good actions in the past.

Climb Mount Popa: active types will enjoy climbing to the peak of Mount Popa. Mount Popa stands at just over 1500m and is a one-hour drive from Bagan, followed by a 45-minute climb to the summit. At the top is the Mahagiri Shrine, dedicated to the spirits, from where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

Cruise the Irrawaddy River. Taking a cruise along the Irrawaddy River is not only an excellent way to witness life in Myanmar, but it also provides some great relaxation. As you float along this tranquil river you’ll see ox carts busy in the fields, small dwellings made from teak and bamboo and, of course, some magnificent temples. Cruising the river is a good way to get an insight into the way of life here.

De-stress at a natural spring. For some genuine de-stressing, the Ngawa Natural Springs situated on the slopes of Mount Popa are perfect. It’s a good idea to go for a morning trek in the surrounding area and then relax in the springs afterwards.

Enjoy a beautiful sunset among the temples. Watching the sun go down with an ancient Buddhist temple in the foreground makes for a wonderful sight and great addition to your holiday snaps. With so many temples here, it’s easy to find a quiet one to enjoy this spectacular scene. Alternatively, take a boat cruise along the river and enjoy the sunset from a boat.

Go bird watching in the Chin Hills. Not far from Bagan is an excellent area for bird watching, a popular activity here. If you are interested in getting close to Myanmar’s birdlife, then tours can be arranged on arrival through your hotel.

Pay a visit to Nathlaung Kyaung. Nathklaung Kyaung is the only remaining Hindu temple in Bagan and is well worth a visit. The temple is thought to have been built in the 10^th century by Indian settlers who were brought to Bagan as skilled workers to construct other temples. The temple is a shrine to Vishnu, the Hindu god, and statues of the ‘10 Avatars’ decorate the outside wall. The dome is supported by a central pillar and originally had figures of Vishnu on each side. The temple was built around 100 years before Buddhism came to the region.