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New Bagan

Explore the stunning temples of New Bagan in Myanmar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in history and culture in this ancient city.

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We suggest to plan a 3 days trip to New Bagan in Myanmar

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New Bagan, located in the heart of Myanmar, is a mesmerizing area renowned for its pristine pagodas and rich historical heritage. Once known as a kingdom’s capital, this region offers adventurers and history enthusiasts alike a profound glimpse into Myanmar’s ancient architectural prowess and Buddhist traditions. Visitors can explore countless temples, each narrating a unique story of the past, set against the backdrop of a breathtaking landscape. New Bagan isn’t just a trip to ancient ruins; it’s a journey into the soul of Myanmar, making it an essential destination for anyone captivated by culture and history.

When visiting New Bagan, make sure to catch a sunrise over the pagodas. The early morning light bathes the temples in gold, offering a surreal, picturesque experience.

Tour the area with a knowledgeable local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical and cultural significance of each site you visit in New Bagan.

How to best experience New Bagan?

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Map of New Bagan, Myanmar

New Bagan: Gateway to History

Country Myanmar
Time in New Bagan GMT+6:30
Language spoken Burmese
Population 52,000 (Estimated)
Currency Burmese Kyat (K, MMK)
Airports
  • Nyaung U Airport (6 mi / 10 km)

New Bagan, located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar, is a town steeped in history and cultural heritage. Formerly known as Bagan (Pagan), it’s a vibrant, though less popular destination when compared to its old counterpart. New Bagan was founded as an area to relocate inhabitants from Old Bagan. Today, it combines the allure of ancient temples with the practicality of modest, modern settlements.

The area’s significance starts from its historical roots, housing over 2,200 temples, stupas, monasteries, and other structures dating back to the 9th century. This architectural treasure trove has rendered the ancient area a UNESCO World Heritage site, which helps boost New Bagan’s prominence as a gateway to Myanmar’s classic heritage. Besides ancient architecture, traditional lacquerwareworkshops and vibrant local life add to the uniqueness of New Bagan. Visitors can participate in workshops and take home a piece of Burmese culture.

New Bagan isn’t just about visiting temples; it’s an immersive experience in Burmese culture and rural life. The town’s proximity to the Ayeyarwady River offers scenic views and opportunities for river cruises, giving travelers a serene perspective of the landscape. As the sun sets, an unforgettable view can be witnessed from the terraces of these ancient structures, presenting a magical panorama interspersed with the golden hues of numerous stupas.

For those passionate about history, New Bagan offers an auditory treat with local guides and historians recounting its transformation through ages—from a regional kingdom’s capital to a modern township. From an economic perspective, despite the modesty, there’s a palpable sense of community and resilience among the locals, which is built around tourism and traditional crafts.

New Bagan provides a tranquil yet enriching experience for travelers who yearn to go beyond the typical tourist destinations and dive deep into the heart of Myanmar’s historical legacy, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of history, architecture, and genuine cultural immersion.

Where is New Bagan?

Located in Myanmar’s Mandalay Region, this historic site rests on the eastern banks of the Ayeyarwady River.

Distances:

Route Distance by Car Time by Car
Yangon to New Bagan 442 miles (712 km) 10 hours
Mandalay to New Bagan 114 miles (184 km) 3 hours 20 minutes

What is New Bagan famous for?

New Bagan is famous for its close proximity to the ancient city of Bagan where over 2,200 religious sites cover a vast, breathtaking landscape, making it a focal point for cultural tourism in Myanmar.

History

1050-1200: Ancient Foundations

The area that is now known as New Bagan has a storied past that reaches back to the late 11th century. Originally, the region was part of the vast Bagan Empire, which at its zenith hosted over 10,000 Buddhist temples, monasteries, and pagodas. This period marked a significant religious and cultural flourishing, where Theravada Buddhism was fervently embraced and promoted by the Burmese monarchy, notably by King Anawrahta.

1200-1700: Religious Significance and Decline

Further development of New Bagan continued into the 13th and 14th centuries, although the pace slowed as the empire began facing invasions and internal strife. The region’s prominence as a religious center was preserved, but it suffered from reduced patronage and subsequent neglect following the collapse of the Bagan Empire in the late 13th century due to Mongol invasions.

1700-1900: Colonial Encounters and Preservation Efforts

The area came under British control in the 19th century, bringing new administrative changes and the first efforts at preserving the ancient temples. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that significant archaeological attention was given to Bagan’s rich heritage, which included the territories comprising New Bagan.

1990-Present: Modern Developments and Tourism

In response to increasing tourism and the need to preserve the ancient city’s ruins, New Bagan was officially developed in the 1990s to host visitors and provide modern accommodations, thereby reducing stress on the more ancient sites in Old Bagan. With increased global recognition, including its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, New Bagan has become pivotal in preserving and presenting the heritage of the Bagan region to the world.

Visit New Bagan

What to see and do in New Bagan

New Bagan offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences, centered around its proximity to the ancient temples and pagodas of Old Bagan. Visitors can explore numerous archaeological sites, participate in guided tours, and enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from prominent pagoda terraces. In addition:

  • Hot air balloon rides over the temple plains
  • Visits to local artisan workshops creating lacquerware
  • Biking or horse-cart rides through dusty plains dotted with ancient structures
  • Sampling traditional Burmese cuisine at local eateries
  • River cruises on the nearby Irrawaddy River

Cultural Festivals of New Bagan

The city hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating Myanmar’s rich heritage and the specific history of the Bagan region. Key events include:

  • The Ananda Pagoda Festival (January), which attracts thousands of monks and is marked by vibrant processions and traditional music.
  • The Alms Giving Ceremony (April and November), a spectacle of devotion and communal spirit.

These events are spiritual highlights, enveloping visitors in a deeply immersive cultural experience.

Best time to visit New Bagan

The ideal time to visit New Bagan is during the cooler months from November to February. During this period, the weather is most conducive for exploring the vast outdoor sites comfortably, with reduced humidity and milder temperatures.

Is New Bagan worth visiting?

New Bagan serves as a fascinating gateway to the ancient city of Bagan and its myriad of architectural and archaeological wonders. It offers contemporary comforts while allowing easy access to historic sites. However, visitors should be prepared for a fairly rural experience, with limited nightlife and entertainment options outside of the temple tours and traditional festivals. Furthermore, the intense heat during the off-peak months might deter those unaccustomed to high temperatures. Despite these considerations, New Bagan stands out as a remarkable destination for those intrigued by history, culture, and serene landscapes, hence making it a journey worth undertaking for the discerning traveler.

What are the best ways to explore the temples of New Bagan?

Exploring the temples of New Bagan offers a unique glimpse into Myanmar’s rich history and cultural heritage. The best ways to explore these architectural marvels include: 1. E-Bike Tours: Renting an e-bike is a popular option as it allows you to navigate at your own pace and access temples that are off the beaten path. 2. Guided Tours: Opting for a guided tour can enhance your experience, as knowledgeable local guides provide insights into the history and architecture of the temples. 3. Hot Air Balloon Rides: For a breathtaking aerial view of the temples and surrounding landscapes, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is highly recommended. 4. Horse Cart Rides: For a more traditional and relaxed pace, horse cart tours are available. These can be a romantic and quaint way to see the sights. Each method offers a different perspective and experience, so you might choose based on your interests, budget, and physical fitness level.

What are the must-see temples in New Bagan?

New Bagan is home to several must-see temples, each significant for its architectural style and historical importance: 1. Ananda Temple: Famous for its gilded sikhara (spire) and well-preserved statues of Buddha, Ananda Temple is one of the most revered sites in Bagan. 2. Dhammayangyi Temple: The largest temple in Bagan, known for its massive, pyramid-like structure and intricate brickwork. 3. Thatbyinnyu Temple: The tallest temple in Bagan, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. 4. Shwesandaw Pagoda: Popular for sunset views, this pagoda features terraced levels that visitors can climb. These temples represent just a glimpse of the rich tapestry of history and artistry to be discovered in New Bagan.

What local dishes should I try while in New Bagan?

While in New Bagan, sampling the local cuisine can enrich your travel experience. Here are several dishes to try: 1. Mohinga: Often considered the national dish of Myanmar, this is a fish-based soup with rice noodles, typically served for breakfast. 2. Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke): Unique to Myanmar, this dish combines fermented tea leaves with nuts, seeds, and vegetables. 3. Curries: Myanmar curries differ in style, often less spicy than neighboring countries. Common ingredients include turmeric, garlic, ginger, and chilies. 4. Shan-style Rice (Nga Htamin): A fragrant rice dish cooked with turmeric, fish and garlic oil topped with freshwater fish. These dishes offer a window into the diverse flavors and cooking traditions of Myanmar.

What are the options for accommodation in New Bagan?

New Bagan offers a variety of accommodation options catering to diverse preferences and budgets: 1. Luxury Resorts: These provide high-end services, spa facilities, and sometimes even private tours of the archaeological zones. 2. Boutique Hotels: Often locally owned, these hotels blend traditional style with modern amenities and are typically centrally located. 3. Guest Houses: More economically priced, guest houses offer basic amenities and a chance to interact more closely with locals. 4. Hostels: Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers, hostels in New Bagan offer shared rooms and communal areas. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from November to February.

How can I respect local customs and traditions while visiting New Bagan?

Respecting local customs and traditions in New Bagan is crucial for a respectful and enriching travel experience: 1. Dress Appropriately: When visiting temples, cover shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed, so wear footwear that is easy to take off. 2. Behavior in Temples: Speak softly and avoid inappropriate behavior. Public displays of affection are frowned upon in religious sites. 3. Interacting with Monks: Women should avoid touching monks and their belongings. 4. Environmental Respect: Dispose of trash properly and avoid touching or climbing on the fragile temples. Understanding and adhering to these practices promotes a respectful interaction with the local community and culture.

What is the best time of year to visit New Bagan?

The best time to visit New Bagan is during the dry season, from November to February. During these months, the weather is cooler and more suitable for exploring the temples and outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to travel around the extensive archaeological sites. Additionally, there are fewer chances of rain, ensuring that travel plans are less likely to be disrupted. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded attractions. For those wishing to avoid crowds, the shoulder months of October and March can be good alternatives, offering slightly warmer weather but fewer tourists.

What should I know about health and safety in New Bagan?

When traveling to New Bagan, several health and safety considerations should be kept in mind: 1. Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines, and check travel advisories for any additional recommended vaccinations. 2. Hydration: The climate can be very hot, especially from March to May, so staying hydrated is crucial. 3. Sun Protection: Wear strong SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against strong sun rays. 4. Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies and possible trip cancellations. 5. Local Healthcare: Know the location of the nearest hospital and carry a basic first aid kit for minor emergencies. Taking these precautions will help ensure a safe and healthy trip to New Bagan.

Are there any language barriers for tourists in New Bagan?

Travelers in New Bagan might encounter some language barriers as Myanmar’s primary language is Burmese, and English is not widely spoken among the older population. However, in tourist-friendly areas like New Bagan, hotel staff, major tour operators, and younger locals often speak functional English, facilitating basic interactions. To enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture, learning a few basic phrases in Burmese can be very helpful. Simple expressions such as “Mingalaba” (Hello), “Kyay Zu Tin Ba Deh” (Thank you), and “Yay Kear Zor” (How much is this?) can go a long way in navigating marketplaces and interacting with locals.

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