Discovering the Heart of Old Bagan

As the sun rises over the ancient city of Old Bagan, the air is filled with a sense of tranquility and anticipation. The weather is perfect for a weekend of exploration, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 64.7°F in the early morning to a warm 83.4°F in the afternoon. The skies are clear, offering excellent visibility for sightseeing, and the gentle breeze adds a refreshing touch to the day’s adventures.

Begin your journey with a Half Day Bagan Tour on the morning of December 7th. This short yet comprehensive exploration of Bagan’s ancient landmarks is perfect for those who wish to uncover the prominent highlights of this historic terrain. The tour starts at 8:30 AM and lasts for four hours, allowing you to delve into the enigma of historic locales and appreciate the distinctive creations of traditional ateliers. Visit the bustling Nyaung U market, where you can buy traditional clothes and handmade souvenirs, and witness the way of local life. The tour also includes visits to the Shwezigon Pagoda, Ananda Pagoda, and Dhammayangyi Temple, each offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Bagan. As one reviewer noted on November 28, 2019:

Exceptional time - I came here before with the standard 2 days tour but actually they weren’t interesting at night even they have night market. So that we took a half day with the private one and it was much fun than ever. My second time was really sense when I could realise what I was wondering on the previous one. Highly recommend!

Embracing the Countryside

On December 8th, embrace the serene beauty of Bagan’s countryside with a Bagan Cycling Tour. This five-hour bicycle tour, starting at 8:00 AM, offers a unique opportunity to explore the villages and temples beyond the common tourist routes. The paths are typically level and seamlessly navigable, making it ideal for biking. As you cycle through the slender, vehicle-inaccessible lanes, you’ll discover a different facet of Bagan, known for its temples and rich history.

The tour takes you through the local irrigation system, which tells the story of a dry region sustaining the growth of cereals, rice, fruit, and peanuts year-round. You’ll have the chance to observe traditional Burmese rural life up-close and engage with the local inhabitants. The highlight of the tour is the magnificent Dhammayazika Pagoda, located in a remote area of the Bagan plains. Built by King Narapatisithu towards the end of the 12th century, the pagoda enshrines sacred Buddhist relics given to him by the King of Sri Lanka.

A Weekend of Cultural Immersion

As the weekend unfolds, take the time to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Old Bagan. The pleasant weather, with moderate humidity and no precipitation expected, makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the ancient landmarks or cycling through the countryside, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beauty and tranquility of this historic city.

The sunsets at 5:28 PM on December 7th and 5:29 PM on December 8th offer a beautiful end to each day of exploration. As you watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ancient temples, you’ll feel a deep connection to the past and a sense of peace that only Bagan can offer. This weekend of tranquil exploration is a perfect opportunity to embrace the pleasant weather and discover the hidden gems of Old Bagan.