Bagan, Myanmar: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Bagan, Myanmar? If you're planning to go to Bagan, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Bagan, Myanmar

Based on the climate and weather in Bagan, Myanmar, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Bagan, Myanmar

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bagan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Bagan, Myanmar by month

January

January for Bagan very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you are traveling to Bagan in February, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Make sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you go to Bagan in March, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region is sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Take care to find the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Bagan in June, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Bagan in July, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Be careful to find the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September for Bagan is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Bagan in October, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Make sure to find the correct type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Bagan very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Myanmar has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bagan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C, D, G and I. It's important that you choose the right type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Ananda Temple, wear:

If you see the Bagan Archeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan, located in Myanmar, is one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia. It is famous for its stunning array of ancient temples and pagodas scattered across the region. The area is also known for its rich cultural significance and Buddhist heritage. There are so many places to visit in Bagan that it can be hard to decide where to start. Here are the top tourist attractions in Bagan, Myanmar.

1. Temple Hopping

One of the main attractions of Bagan is the thousand-year-old temples and pagodas. You can spend hours, days or even weeks exploring these ancient structures. Some of the must-visit temples include the Ananda Temple, Shwezigon Pagoda, Dhammayangyi Temple, and Thatbyinnyu Temple.

2. Hot Air Ballooning

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Bagan is taking a hot air balloon ride over the temples at sunrise. It's a truly magical experience and offers a breathtaking perspective of these ancient monuments.

3. Sunset Viewpoints

The temples and pagodas of Bagan are also great spots to witness the incredible sunset views. Some of the best viewpoints include the Shwesandaw Pagoda, Buledi Pagoda, and Pyathada Pagoda. Watching the sunset over the thousands of temples is truly a sight to behold.

4. Archaeological Museum

If you're interested in learning more about the history of Bagan, the Archaeological Museum is the perfect place to visit. It features various exhibitions and artifacts from the ancient kingdom, along with multimedia displays that showcase the region's rich and diverse cultural heritage.

5. Nyaung U Market

For those who enjoy shopping and exploring local markets, the Nyaung U Market is a must-visit destination. It offers a wide variety of local goods, including handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing. It's also the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the daily life of Myanmar citizens.

6. Mount Popa

Located roughly an hour’s drive from Bagan is Mount Popa, an extinct volcano and popular day trip destination. Visitors can climb the 777 steps to the top where the Mount Popa Monastery is located. It is believed to be the home of 37 nats, or Burmese spirits.

Overall, Bagan is a phenomenal destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Myanmar. The region is full of ancient temples and pagodas, breathtaking views, and delicious food. With so many things to see and do, it's no wonder that it has become one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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