Bagan is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Myanmar. Its vast plains dotted with 8,000 temples and pagodas create a landscape that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. While wandering on land is rewarding, some experiences are best appreciated from above—like watching the sunrise over the temple-studded horizon during a hot-air balloon ride. Others provide a deep dive into local culture, such as exploring the ancient temples with a private guide or visiting Mount Popa, which offers stunning views and spiritual insight. These tours give you a chance to not just see but truly experience Bagan’s soul.
Some tours, like the Balloons Over Bagan, are about soaring high and taking in the scenery from a bird’s eye view. Others, like the Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour, focus on the intricate details of the temples and their history. Whether you prefer a peaceful cruise, an adventurous hike, or a private guided day, Bagan’s tour options promise memorable moments and authentic encounters.
Quick Overview of Tours in Bagan
Our list covers a variety of experiences to match different interests and schedules. From the spectacular hot-air balloon rides (Balloons Over Bagan) to immersive full-day cultural tours (Private Bagan Cultural Tour) and even mountain excursions like Mount Popa (Mount Popa Tour). There are options for those seeking adventure, history, relaxation, or a mix of everything.
Now, let’s explore each of these top tours in detail to help you decide which fits your travel style and schedule.
1. Balloons Over Bagan
Rating: 5.0/5 (194 reviews)
Price: $230.00 per person
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Imagine floating gently over Bagan’s thousands of temples at sunrise, watching the first light cast a golden glow on the ancient landscape. This hot-air balloon ride offers a perspective that’s nearly impossible on land. Every flight is unique—sometimes you drift over villages or see early morning farmers feeding animals. The experience begins with hotel pickup, easing you into an early start, and ends with a feeling of having seen Bagan from a whole new angle.
The reviews are glowing, with travelers describing it as “incredible,” “spectacular,” and “a one-of-a-kind experience.” The pilot shares insights about the area, making it educational as well as breathtaking. This tour is perfect for couples or anyone looking for a memorable, romantic adventure. While the price is steep, the views and sense of serenity are worth it.
Bottom Line: For around $230, this is a bucket-list experience that’s hard to beat for pure awe and unforgettable memories.
2. Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (49 reviews)
Price: $43.08 per person
Duration: 9 to 10 hours
If you prefer exploring on land, this private car tour offers a comprehensive visit to Bagan’s most important temples and sites. It’s a relaxed way to take in the highlights, like Shwezigon Pagoda and Gubyaukgyi Temple, with a knowledgeable guide who can answer your questions along the way. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, water, and a cool towel to keep you comfortable in the heat.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and depth—your guide can tailor the visit to your interests, making it less about rushing and more about appreciating the details. With knowledgeable guides who speak fluent English, you’ll gain insights into the history and significance of each site. Many travelers appreciate the personal touch, as shown by reviews praising the guide’s attentiveness.
Bottom Line: For around $43, this full-day tour is excellent value for a personalized, in-depth look at Bagan’s temples.
3. Bagan and Mount Popa Private Tour (2 Days)
Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews)
Price: $90.26 per person
Duration: 2 days
This two-day private experience takes you beyond Bagan, including a visit to Mount Popa, a volcanic site famed for its spiritual significance and panoramic views. The first day covers Bagan’s famous temples—Gubyaukgyi, Nyaung-U, and Shwezigon—with a private guide. Day two involves ascending Mount Popa, where you’ll see the Popa Taungkalat Shrine and learn about local nat worship.
Designed for those wanting an immersive experience, the tour offers private transport, expert guiding, and visits to rural villages. Travelers rave about how well-organized and informative it is, with a blend of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights. It’s a good choice if you want to maximize your time and really understand Myanmar’s spiritual landscape.
Bottom Line: At $90, this private 2-day tour offers excellent value for a deep, personal journey through Bagan and Mount Popa.
4. From Bagan City To Mandalay Private Transfer
Rating: 5.0/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $150.00 per group (up to 3)
Duration: 4 hours
Sometimes, the journey is the destination. This private transfer makes traveling from Bagan to Mandalay smooth and comfortable. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Bagan and enjoy the scenery in a private air-conditioned vehicle, with stops like Tree Jade to stretch and explore.
This is perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of buses or trains and prefer a flexible schedule. The reviews emphasize the driver’s professionalism and support, making the ride both safe and enjoyable. It’s an economical and convenient way to get between two major sites without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: If you’re heading to Mandalay and value comfort and flexibility, this private transfer at $150 is a smart choice.
5. Private Bagan Cultural Tour
Rating: 4.5/5 (15 reviews)
Price: $46.16 per person
Duration: 9 hours
This full-day private tour offers an in-depth look at Bagan’s most important temples along with some lesser-known spots. Your guide will share stories about Sulamani, Ananda, and Htilo-minlo temples, as well as take you on a walking tour within the city walls. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to customize the experience, including a sunset view from a scenic spot.
A highlight is learning about Myanmar’s history and culture through guided explanations. Many reviewers appreciate the personalized experience, with some mentioning how the guide’s detailed insights made the visit more meaningful. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and cultural education.
Bottom Line: For $46, this tour provides a detailed, flexible full-day experience suited for those eager to understand Bagan’s cultural significance.
6. Day Cruise Bagan to Mandalay
Rating: 4.5/5 (14 reviews)
Price: $30.77 per person
Duration: 12 hours
Traveling by river offers a different perspective. This boat cruise from Bagan to Mandalay covers a full day on the Irrawaddy River, with breakfast and lunch included. As you glide past pagodas, villages, and countryside, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and scenic views. The crew shares insights into local culture, and the sunset from the boat adds a memorable moment to the journey.
This tour appeals to those who enjoy being on the water and want to break up land travel with a peaceful cruise. It’s economical, with a good balance of comfort and scenery, making it a compelling choice for slow travelers or those interested in Myanmar’s river life.
Bottom Line: For around $31, a scenic, restful way to travel between Bagan and Mandalay on the river.
7. Mount Popa Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $82.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours
This half-day tour is ideal if you want a focused visit to Mount Popa, a site dedicated to Myanmar’s spirits, or “nats.” The journey includes a climb of 777 steps to the monastery at the summit, providing spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The tour also features encounters with the resident monkeys and visits to shrines to the 37 nats.
The reviews highlight the well-organized nature and the knowledgeable guide. It’s especially popular for its combination of scenic views, cultural insight, and physical activity. This is a good choice if you’re short on time but want to experience a key spiritual site well away from Bagan’s temples.
Bottom Line: At $82, it offers a solid half-day adventure blending nature, spirituality, and stunning vistas.
8. Private Day Tour to Mt Popa
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $48.21 per person
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
Designed for those who want a personalized experience, this private tour includes hotel pickup, a flexible itinerary, and a visit to Mount Popa’s Popa Taungkalat Shrine. The guide shares local stories and takes you up the 657-meter volcano, offering panoramic views. The tour also explores local industries like palm sugar and peanut oil production on the way.
Reviewers note the guide’s warmth and knowledge, making it a memorable, tailored experience. The tour is ideal if you prefer a more intimate setting and want to avoid large group tours.
Bottom Line: For about $48, this private tour is perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, local insights, and a more personal connection.
$48.21 per person
9. Visiting Mount Popa from Bagan – Private Tour
Rating: 4.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $48.21 per person
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
This private tour offers an easy way to see Mount Popa’s monastic complex and the surrounding countryside. It includes stops at local villages and a climb up the 777 steps of the mountain to visit the cliff temple. The guide shows you rural life, including how palm sweets and peanut oil are produced.
It’s perfect for travelers wanting a combination of cultural insight and scenic views in a relaxed, private setting. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making it more meaningful.
Bottom Line: For $48, this tour provides an accessible, private way to explore Mount Popa and its rural surroundings.
$48.21 per person
10. Tuk Tuk tour to Mt. Popa
Rating: 4.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $66.67 per group (up to 2)
Duration: 8 hours
For a more local-style experience, consider this Tuk Tuk tour. Starting with breakfast, you will drive around Mount Popa, visiting the Nat Museum and climbing about 777 steps to the shrines. The open-air ride adds a touch of adventure and allows you to see the countryside and local life up close.
Many travelers enjoy the informal, fun atmosphere, though it’s a longer day with a lot of climbing. It’s suitable for those who want a casual, hands-on experience and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.
Bottom Line: At $67 for two, this is a fun, informal way to explore Mount Popa on a budget, with a bit of adventure.
$66.67 per group (up to 2)
11. Private Bagan day tour by car with horse cart
Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews)
Price: $69.77 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This fully private day tour combines classic temple visits with a relaxed ride through Myingaba village on a horse cart. Stops include Ananda Temple, Shwezigon Pagoda, and Thatbyinnyu Temple. The tour also includes visiting local workshops and enjoying a sunset cruise along the Irrawaddy River.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day with a mix of cultural sights and local life. The inclusion of a horse cart ride offers a charming way to experience village life and take in the scenery at a gentle pace.
Bottom Line: For $69, this personalized full-day tour offers a blend of temple exploration and rural charm, ending with a river cruise.
$69.77 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Bagan
When selecting your ideal Bagan experience, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. If stunning aerial views top your list, the hot-air balloon ride (Balloons Over Bagan) is unmatched. For a more in-depth cultural experience, a full-day guided tour (Private Bagan Cultural Tour) offers great value.
Interested in Mount Popa? The private Mount Popa tours (Mount Popa Tour) and private day trips (Visiting Mount Popa from Bagan) are perfect for those who want flexibility and personalized insights. Budget travelers might prefer the river cruise or Tuk Tuk rides, which combine scenic views with affordability.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the hot-air balloon experience, which is highly popular. Also, consider the weather—dry season (November to February) offers the best conditions for most outdoor tours.
Final Thoughts
Bagan’s diverse array of tours means there’s something for every travel style. Whether you seek a breathtaking balloon ride, a comprehensive temple tour, or a cultural exploration with local guides, this list covers the best options.
If you’re after a truly unforgettable experience, the Balloons Over Bagan ride is hard to beat. For those with limited time or on a budget, a full-day guided tour or a scenic river cruise still offer authentic ways to enjoy the region. For adventurous spirits, Mount Popa visits provide stunning vistas and spiritual insights.
Remember, booking early can help secure the most popular tours, and always tailor your choice to your interests. Bagan’s magic is in its details, and the right tour can turn your visit into a lifelong memory.