Discover Bagan’s stunning temples !Learn about e-bike adventures, family-friendly travel tips, and the best pagodas to visit in this guide.
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Key Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey in Exploring Bagan with a Baby
A Day of Temple Hopping
After a much-needed rest following the overnight bus from Yangon, we rented an E-bike to explore Bagan’s legendary temples. Our first stop was the iconic Shwezigon Pagoda, followed by visits to the Ananda Temple, Pyathada Pagoda, and finally, the famous Shwesandaw Pagoda for sunset.
Despite the heat and occasional mishaps, the day was filled with awe-inspiring views, cultural discoveries, and precious family moments.
Key Events
Renting an E-Bike
E-bikes are the most convenient and budget-friendly way to get around Bagan. For 5,000 MMK (approximately $3.50), we rented a sturdy electric scooter from our guesthouse, Innwa Motel. While taxis provide air-conditioned comfort, we found the E-bike to be the best way to navigate the dusty paths and narrow roads between temples.
Lunch at Leo Restaurant
Hungry from our morning exploration, we headed to Leo Restaurant, highly rated on TripAdvisor. The food, though neatly presented, was mediocre and overpriced compared to local eateries. Unfortunately, the experience was marred by relentless flies that even Sweetie couldn’t escape. Thankfully, the staff kindly offered a fan to keep the flies away while Sweetie ate.
Shwezigon Pagoda
The Shwezigon Pagoda, a golden masterpiece, was our first temple stop. This thousand-year-old pagoda, steeped in history and myths, dazzled us with its grandeur. Sweetie had a special encounter with a friendly cat by the entrance, making the visit even more memorable.
Ananda Temple
Next, we visited the Ananda Temple, a stunning structure with Indian-inspired architecture. Despite ongoing restoration work, its beauty was undeniable. Sweetie, now used to locals taking pictures with her, patiently posed for photos with friendly visitors.
Chasing the Sunset
Hoping to catch the famous Bagan sunset, we initially headed to Pyathada Pagoda, only to discover that climbing it was no longer allowed. As rainclouds and lightning loomed, we quickly diverted to Shwesandaw Pagoda, where we caught a fleeting glimpse of the sun disappearing behind the horizon.
Dinner at Shwe Yar Su
We ended the day with a delicious dinner at Shwe Yar Su, a bustling local eatery. The standout dish was the grilled fish, tender and flavorful. Paired with a cold Myanmar beer, it was the perfect way to unwind after a dusty day of exploration.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Stay Cool and Comfortable
- Dress your baby in lightweight, breathable clothing. Bring a small portable fan or cooling towels for extra comfort.
- Pack Snacks and Essentials
- Carry snacks, water, and sunscreen. The heat and long hours can be challenging for little ones.
- Time Your Visits
- Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Beware of Hot Floors
- Temple floors can get scorching hot. Carry your baby or wear thick socks to protect your feet.
- Engage Locals
- Locals love interacting with babies, and their kindness can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Local Travel Tips
- Rent an E-Bike
E-bikes are a cost-effective way to explore Bagan’s sprawling temple area. They’re quiet, eco-friendly, and easy to use. - Plan Your Route
With over 2,000 temples, it’s impossible to visit them all. Research the top pagodas, like Shwezigon, Ananda, and Shwesandaw, to prioritize your stops. - Avoid Midday Heat
The heat in Bagan is intense, especially around noon. Take a break at your hotel or a shaded cafe to recharge. - Sunset and Sunrise Tips
- Arrive early at popular temples like Shwesandaw for the best spots.
- Check weather conditions as rain and clouds can obscure views.
- Dining in Bagan
Stick to well-reviewed restaurants, but expect flies to be a common nuisance. Local beers and barbecued fish are must-tries!
Travel Reflections in Exploring Bagan with a Baby
- Sweetie’s Resilience
Despite the heat and the flies, Sweetie’s curiosity and adaptability were inspiring. Her fascination with a cat at Shwezigon and her calmness during photoshoots were highlights of the day. - The Beauty of Bagan
Bagan’s temples are breathtaking, each with its own story and charm. Even the brief glimpse of the sunset at Shwesandaw left a lasting impression. - Challenges of Temple Travel
The hot weather, flies, and occasional discomfort reminded us to appreciate the little conveniences like a fan or a cold drink.
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