Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bagan Golden Palace
PALACE
(Bagan-Nyaung U Rd; admission K5000; 6.30am-10pm)
Following similar government-
mandated palace reconstruction jobs in Bago, Mandalay and Shwebo, this towering
concrete-and-steel-reinforced edifice was opened to much fanfare in 2008. Built opposite
the excavated site of the actual palace just in from the Tharabar Gate, it's unlikely to bear
much resemblance to the original. Either way, it's a sign of the ongoing Disneyfication of
Bagan.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
BAGAN'S BEST
Bart D'hooge, Chief Pilot for Balloons over Bagan (
Click here
)
, has been flying hot-
air balloons at Bagan since 2007.
Best temple
Sulamani Temple is a beautiful impressive temple with some well preserved wall
paintings. It is great to stroll around and take in the atmosphere. Just to the south
of the temple there is a little lake, a nice place to sit around and spot some Bagan
birdlife. Just be aware that you are in snake territory.
Best non-temple thing to do
A sunset cruise on the river can be a great way to end the day. The boat heads up-
stream, they cut the engine and drift back down with sunset as a backdrop. Bring a
few drinks along for the ride.
Best shopping
Tun Handicrafts/Moe Moe's (
Click here
)
is run by a lovely lady who produces good-
quality laquerware. The range on display is just the tip of the iceberg: ask to see the
special room, with the really nice bits. The staff can show the entire lacquerware
process in the workshop, which is a fascinating insight into this Bagan tradition.
Best restaurant
The Black Bamboo (
Click here
)
has delicious food and they prepare homemade ice
cream and desserts.
Best nightlife
Check out Hti bar (
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)
in Nyaung U which serves a wide variety of cocktails.
