Embracing the Tazaungdaing Festival in Old Bagan

As the Tazaungdaing Festival lights up the ancient city of Old Bagan, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a celebration that is as vibrant as it is spiritual. This festival, marking the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, is a time of joy, reflection, and community. The clear skies and pleasant temperatures on December 14th make it an ideal day to explore the city and its festivities.

Begin your journey with a Full Day Temple Tour that starts at 8:00 AM. This comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Bagan, where over 2000 pagodas and temples stand as testaments to the region’s rich history. As you wander through these ancient structures, you’ll hear tales of Bagan Kings and the spiritual significance of each temple. The tour includes a visit to the bustling local markets and a riverside stop, providing a snapshot of local life. As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset with refreshments, a perfect way to reflect on the day’s experiences.

“Bagan - Tour was fabulous! The guide is a true blue Burmese guy who is patient, polite and delivers an excellent customised package without ado. All this with a genuine form of simplicity and openness hard to come by these days.” - Reviewed on 2020-02-18

Nighttime Magic: Temples and Tastes

As the sun sets on December 14th, the magic of Bagan takes on a new form. The Night Temple Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the temples under the starlit sky. Starting at 5:00 PM, this three-hour excursion takes you to both renowned and hidden temples, including the extraordinary Ananda temple. The evening ambiance, with fewer tourists and the temples illuminated by moonlight, creates a mystical atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring.

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to taste traditional Burmese snacks, often enjoyed during temple festivals. These flavors offer a culinary glimpse into the local culture, enhancing the overall experience. The tour concludes with a dinner at a nearby restaurant, allowing you to savor the local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

“Bagan can be even more magical at night - I liked how different this tour was than all of the others on offer. Seeing Bagan at night was really special - the temples feel even more magical when lit up against the star-studded sky.” - Reviewed on 2020-01-22

A Day of Reflection and Celebration

On December 15th, the partly cloudy skies provide a gentle backdrop for another day of exploration and celebration. The Tazaungdaing Festival continues, with locals and visitors alike participating in various activities that highlight the cultural richness of the region. The festival is known for its vibrant parades, traditional music, and the release of lanterns into the night sky, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.

For those who wish to delve deeper into the spiritual side of Bagan, consider revisiting some of the temples explored the previous day. Each visit offers a new perspective, as the changing light and atmosphere reveal different aspects of these ancient structures. The festival’s spirit of community and reflection is palpable, inviting all to partake in its joyous celebrations.

As the day draws to a close, the sunset at 5:31 PM offers a final moment of tranquility and beauty. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening stroll or participating in the festival’s closing events, the experience is sure to leave a lasting impression. Old Bagan, with its blend of history, culture, and celebration, provides a truly unforgettable journey into the heart of Myanmar.