The ancient city of Bagan in Myanmar is a treasure trove of over 2,000 temples and pagodas that date back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The best way to explore this magnificent archaeological site is by horse and cart, offering a unique and authentic experience that transports you back in time. In our article, temples of Bagan Myanmar by horse and cart, we will delve into the enchanting world of Bagan’s temples, as we uncover the rich history behind these architectural marvels and reveal why exploring them by horse and cart is an absolute must for any traveller seeking to immerse themselves in the profound beauty of this sacred land.
We love visiting ancient temples. Some of our favourites have been Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Chichen Itza in Mexico.
To Book Your Horse & Cart Ride of the Temples of Bagan
Book your tour hereWhere to Stay in Bagan
We chose the Bagan Umbra Hotel for its location out of the main area of town and in walking distance to some of the local temples. The hotel also included breakfast and a swimming pool, which was a welcome relief after a day of sightseeing in the heat and the dust. We can recommend the hotel for solo travellers, family, couples and groups. There are small local restaurants and bars close by as well.
Read travellers reviews and see their latest photos on Tripadvisor for the Bagan Umbra Hotel
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Where is Bagan Myanmar located?
Bagan, located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar, is famous for its 2,200 temples and pagodas that lie in an area of over 104 square kilometres. It lies on the eastern bank of the Irrawaddy River.
Bagan Map
The History of Bagan
Once the Capital of the Kingdom of Pagan during the 9th – 13th century the area originally had well over 10,000 Buddhist temples made up of 1,000 stupas, 3,000 monasteries and 10,000 small temples.
Between the years 1904 and 1975, the area experienced over 400 earthquakes, which damaged thousands of the temples leaving only 2,200 standing. During the 1990s the Military of Myanmar took it upon themselves to renovate and repair those that were left standing. Unfortunately, they used modern materials and their renovations were not sympathetic to the original construction and features of the temples and pagodas, even to the extent of building over some. Myanmar has approached UNESCO to apply for World Heritage Status for the Temples of Bagan but due to the military’s approach to the renovations, UNESCO has declined at this stage. On July 6th 2019 UNESCO granted Bagan and its Temples World Heritage Status.
Related Reading: Our Top 5 Places to Visit in Myanmar
Things To Do in Bagan – Horse & Cart Ride Around the Temples
Read on to find our review of our day visiting the Bagan temples and pagodas.
It was 9 a.m. and we were touring the Bagan Myanmar temples by horse and cart. The temperature was already close to the expected 32 degrees Celsius. November time in Myanmar is hot and dry and daily temperatures hover between 32 and 34 degrees. We expected Bagan to be hot, but this was very hot and very dusty. We were not going to let some dust and some heat stop us from visiting one of our bucket list items – Bagan Temples Burma. It was going to be a long day culminating with sunset from one of the less crowded temples.
Wilson, our driver, appeared at the entrance to our accommodation at the Bagan Umbra Hotel – with his trusted horse already hitched to the cart and ready to go. Wilson was brought up amongst the Temples in Bagan Myanmar, and he prided himself on the knowledge that he could impart to his guests. He checked that we had ample water, sunscreen, insect repellant and a hat as we were not expected back at the hotel till after sunset.
Click on the temple link under each photo for the Google Map location.
The Upali Thein Ordination Hall
The Upali Thein Ordination Hall in Bagan Myanmar was built in the mid-13th century and stands across the road from the Htilominio Temple. The temple was named after the well-known monk Upali. The walls are covered in 28 frescoes of Buddha images and scenes from the life of Gautama Buddha; the building is kept locked in order to protect these frescoes. These halls called “Thein” in Myanmar were used for the confession of the monks as well as their ordination ceremonies.
Mingala Zedi Temple
We arrived as local families were cleaning the Buddha inside the Mingala Zedi temple where later they would make offerings and settle down to prayer and worship. Mingala Zedi means “Blessing Stupa” and dates to around AD 1277. Taking 6 years to build this was the last temple built before the decline of the kingdom.
The Jataka Stories Plaques
The Jataka Stories are the stories of the early 10th century depicting the former lives of the Gautama Buddha. The Jatakas show teachings on how to become good Buddhists and how you can be rewarded for living a moral life.
The Bupaya Pagoda
The Bupaya Pagoda is located in the old walled city of Bagan on the banks of the Irrawaddy River. It was built in AD162 – Bupaya means ‘a gourd-shaped pagoda”. The Pyu-style Stupa is the oldest in Bagan. It has been rebuilt since the earthquake of 1975 where it was completely destroyed when it toppled into the Irrawaddy River. It is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
The Myazedi Pagoda
The Myazedi Pagoda is located in the Myinkaba village of Old Bagan. It dates back to the 12th Century. Myazedi means “Jade Pagoda”. Prince Kumar built the Pagoda in the memory of his mother. Prince Kumar was the son of King Kyansitthar who did not know that he had a son and on his death gave the throne to his grandson.
The Mahabodhi Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple lies in the walled city of Old Bagan and resembles the Mahabodhi Temple in India. The two-storey structure is built in Central Indian Style and dates back to the 12th century. During the earthquake of 1975, it was badly damaged and has recently been restored.
In the grounds surrounding the Mahabodhi Temple, you will find seven signs depicting the seven weeks the Buddha spent after reaching enlightenment.
- The first week the Buddha sat under the Bodhi Tree where he had reached enlightenment
- The second week the Buddha spent looking in appreciation at the Bodhi tree that had sheltered him during meditation
- In the third week, the Buddha created a golden bridge in the air in order to demonstrate he had reached enlightenment and spent a week walking up and down the bridge
- In the fourth week, the Buddha created a jewelled chamber and meditated inside it.
- The fifth week the Buddha spent meditating under a Banyan tree. It is said that three beautiful girls, the daughters of the demon Mara, danced in front of him in an unsuccessful attempt to stop the Buddha from meditating.
- The sixth week the Buddha meditated under a Mucalinda tree. When it started to rain a large snake appeared that wrapped its body around the Buddha and put its hood over the Buddha’s head to keep him warm and dry
- In the seventh week, the Buddha meditated under a Rajayatana tree where two merchants appeared and offered the Buddha rice cakes and honey. The Buddha told the merchants about the Dhamma (the Buddhist teachings) and they are said to have become the first followers of the Buddha.
The Ananda Pagoda
The Ananda Temple is known to be one of the most beautiful temples and well preserved in Bagan, dating back to 1105AD. The Gilded Sikhara (the tower-like spire on the top of the Pagoda) can be seen from miles away and is lit up at night. During the 1975 earthquake, it suffered quite a lot of damage but has been recently restored.
There are many ways to visit the Temples of Bagan, by bicycle, horse and cart, guided air-conditioned coach tours or an early sunrise hot air balloon ride. There are a few temples that can be climbed for sunset viewing, the drivers will assess which are the less crowded and will get you there in time for sunset and the magnificent views from the Irrawaddy River to Bagan.
Related Reading: Balloons Over Bagan Hot Air Balloon Adventure
Sunset at Sulamani Pagoda – one of the best Bagan Temples
Our last temple of the day was Sulamani. We got there a little early so that we could claim a good spot for the sunset. Sulamani was built in 1183 by the King Narapatisithu in the village of Minnanthu.
PRO-TIP
You will have to plan your afternoon around getting to Sulamani in plenty of time for sunset before the busloads of tourists arrive.
More Hotels in Bagan Myanmar
Our accommodation was at the Bagan Umbra Hotel. The hotel is very popular, if it is booked out you can search below for more options.
Book your tour here
Essential Visitor Information When You Visit Bagan
Getting Into Bagan
Bagan’s Airport is located 3 km from the town.
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Visa for Myanmar
You may need a visa to enter Myanmar. Check below before you book your flights.
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Bus/Train and Ferry Travels Around South East Asia
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Bagan Weather
When is the best time to visit Bagan Myanmar?
The best time to visit Bagan and its temples is during the months of November and February. Bagan is hot all year around. During these months the temperature hovers around 30 degrees. The rainy season occurs between June and October. During March through to May the temperatures soar to around 43 degrees.
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Where to Eat in Bagan
Our favourite cuisine is Indian so we were excited to find that Bagan had an excellent range of Indian Restaurants.
One of our favourites:
Aroma 2: YarKinn Thar Hotel Road Bagan
Read the latest TripAdvisor Reviews for Restaurants in Bagan.
In conclusion, exploring the Temples of Bagan by horse and cart is a truly magical experience that immerses visitors in this ancient city’s rich history and serene beauty. The traditional method of transportation adds to the authenticity of the journey, allowing travellers to step back in time and appreciate the grandeur of these architectural wonders at a leisurely pace. Each temple tells its unique story From sunrise to sunset, offering glimpses into Myanmar’s past and providing a sense of awe-inspiring spirituality. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors can gain valuable insights into Bagan’s cultural heritage while enjoying breathtaking views from atop their trusty steeds. Whether you are an avid history buff or simply seeking a tranquil escape from modern-day life, exploring Bagan’s temples by horse and cart promises an unforgettable adventure filled with wonderment and discovery.
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These temples are magnificent. Is one day enough to explore all of them?
No – we stayed for a whole week and still did not cover it all. It is one amazing destination. Hope you can get to stay longer.