Which Bagan Tours To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks

Bagan is a wonderland for anyone interested in Myanmar’s most iconic sights, especially its thousands of ancient temples and pagodas. What makes Bagan truly special is not just the quantity of historic sites but the variety of ways you can explore them—by private car, bike, horse cart, or even balloon. Some tours, like the Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour, let you relax and enjoy a knowledgeable guide, while others, like the Faces of Bagan Private Photography Tour, focus on capturing perfect moments. Whether you’re drawn to cultural insights, stunning vistas, or off-the-beaten-path temples, Bagan’s tour options deliver.

Many travelers love a full-day private tour for its convenience, like the Amazing Bagan, full day tour by car and guide, which combines major temples with local market visits and a riverside sunset. For those wanting a more active or intimate experience, cycling or horse cart tours provide a closer look at village life and less crowded sites. For a two-day adventure, the Bagan and Mount Popa Private Tour offers a comprehensive dive into both the heritage sites and the volcanic beauty of Mount Popa. Below is a detailed look at each of these top options, helping you choose the perfect way to enjoy Bagan.

1. Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour

Relax while a driver/guide shows you around Bagan on this comprehensive day tour. The itinerary covers the most significant temples and monuments in the ancient zone, including the bustling town of Nyaung-U. The private car makes navigating the vast site manageable, especially for first-timers. Water and a cool towel are provided, making it easier to withstand the heat. With a 5.0/5 rating based on 50 reviews, this tour’s flexibility and tailored approach stand out.

This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a stress-free, informative experience with a local guide who can answer questions and customize the stops. The price is $110 for roughly 9 to 10 hours, which offers good value considering the personalized service and all-inclusive comfort. From the guide’s local knowledge to the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s an excellent choice for those who want to see Bagan’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop.

Bottom Line: An ideal full-day introduction for first-time visitors wanting a hassle-free, well-rounded experience of Bagan’s most famous temples.

2. Bagan Private Tour

At number 2, the Bagan Private Tour offers a personalized half-day adventure for only $48. Zaw, a local guide and driver, shows you the best temples, villages, and craft workshops. The itinerary is flexible, giving you the option to focus on your preferred sights, such as the famous pagodas or local artisan spots.

What makes this tour stand out is its intimate approach—covering temples, monasteries, and photogenic villages—all tailored to your interests. The guide shares local knowledge, making it a valuable experience for anyone wanting an authentic, less rushed visit. The shorter duration makes it perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a more relaxed, personalized exploration.

Bottom Line: Highly recommended for travelers seeking a flexible, budget-friendly private experience with local insights.

3. Bagan and Mount Popa Private Tour (2 Days)

This two-day private adventure combines the temples of Bagan with the volcanic majesty of Mount Popa. Starting with a full day in Bagan, you’ll visit key sites like Gubyaukgyi Temple and Shwezigon Pagoda. The second day takes you to Mount Popa, where you’ll marvel at the ancient volcano and learn about Myanmar’s spirit worship. The trip includes private transport and an English-speaking guide, making it easy to relax and absorb the sights.

The itinerary emphasizes culture and scenic views, with stops at palm sugar production and peanut oil making along the way. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and seamless logistics. This tour is best for those wanting an in-depth, multi-day experience that balances temple exploration with local village life.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, two-day program to experience both Bagan’s temples and Mount Popa’s natural beauty.

4. Amazing Bagan, Full Day Tour by Car and Guide

Offering a well-rounded day, this full-day private tour includes visits to famous temples like Ananda and Dhammayangyi. It emphasizes comfort and convenience—hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and lunch included. The tour also features a stop at a local market and a riverside spot for sunset drinks, adding a taste of Burmese culture.

Costing around $90.26 per person, the value is high considering the comprehensive itinerary and inclusion of monument entrance fees. Guests appreciate the flexible yet organized approach, with one reviewer noting they saw many temples but felt a little rushed. It suits travelers who want a full culture with a comfortable, guided experience.

Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full day of temple-hopping with cultural stops and scenic moments, all in comfort.

5. Bagan Antique Day Tour in Bagan

This two-day tour is designed for visitors interested in the ancient art and architecture of Bagan. It includes visits to over a thousand monuments, plus detailed insights into local architecture, paintings, and stucco work. The tour emphasizes the craftsmanship and history of Bagan, with a focus on the temples’ murals and carvings.

Reviewers mention the guide’s flexibility and the trip’s thorough coverage of Bagan’s historical sites. The itinerary balances major temples with lesser-known spots, making it ideal for history buffs or those with a keen interest in architecture. The tour’s value comes from its deep dive into Bagan’s cultural fabric along with local experiences like palm sugar and peanut oil making on day two.

Bottom Line: Suited for travelers eager to explore the artistic and historic richness of Bagan in detail over two days.

6. Private Bagan Cultural Tour

This full-day Private Bagan Cultural Tour offers a personalized look at UNESCO World Heritage site temples like Sulamani and Ananda. The itinerary is flexible, including a sunset view from a scenic lookout. The guide shares in-depth stories and cultural insights, making it more than just temple visits.

At $70 for 9 hours, it’s a good value considering the private experience and entrance fee inclusions. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the flexibility of the schedule. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with learning about Myanmar’s culture in a relaxed, private setting.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culturally curious visitors wanting an intimate, tailored tour with excellent views.

7. Faces of Bagan Private Photography Tour

For photography enthusiasts, this Faces of Bagan Private Photography Tour stands out. It spans approximately 12 hours, from sunrise over temples to capturing daily village life. The tour includes visits to major temples and the Minnanthu Village, ensuring a variety of photo opportunities.

The guide helps you get the best shots of both the ancient monuments and local scenes. The personalized approach ensures you can customize stops for lighting or specific subjects. It’s best suited for those who want to document Bagan’s life and architecture in detail. The $199 price is justified by the extensive time and expert guidance.

Bottom Line: A must for serious photographers or those who want to capture authentic moments of Bagan’s daily life.

8. Lost Temples of Bagan Private Tour

Explore Bagan’s less-visited, crumbling temples on this 12-hour Lost Temples private tour. It begins with a sunrise balloon view and includes visits to Minnanthu Village, Nyaung U Market, and Kyat Khayon Cave. Breakfast and lunch at local eateries add authentic flavors to this offbeat day.

This tour is unique because it uncovers hidden and forgotten sites, perfect for travelers craving a quieter, more introspective experience. The guide’s local knowledge shines as you learn about temples, murals, and traditional crafts. The personalized vehicle and meals enhance the value. It’s ideal for those wanting to go beyond the main tourist spots.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers keen to see Bagan’s lesser-known, atmospheric ruins.

9. Bagan Family Tour with Sand Painting Class

Designed for families, this Bagan Family Tour combines temple exploration with interactive activities like sand painting. It’s a full-day, engaging experience, including wandering through ancient carvings and enjoying hot air balloon views from afar.

Costing $349 per person, it balances learning and fun, making it ideal for children and parents alike. The tour emphasizes hands-on activities that keep everyone involved, and the guide ensures a safe, memorable day. If you’re traveling with kids or want a more playful approach, this tour offers a unique way to experience Bagan.

Bottom Line: Best suited for families seeking an active, educational day with creative activities.

10. Mount Popa Tour

For a half-day escape, the Mount Popa Tour offers the chance to visit Myanmar’s most sacred volcano. This 4-hour trip includes climbing 777 steps to the Mount Popa complex, viewing panoramic countryside and spotting monkeys along the way. It costs around $82 per person.

The tour’s highlight is the spirit shrines and temple complex at the summit, as well as the chance to see local crafts like palm sweets and peanut oil. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a quick yet rewarding cultural experience. The price includes entrance fees, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those short on time but eager to see a key religious and scenic site.

11. Private Day Tour to Mt Popa

This private tour offers a personalized visit to Mount Popa, with pickup and drop-off at your Bagan hotel. It includes a scenic drive, visits to local villages, and a climb to the Popa Taungkalat Shrine. The guide shares insights into spirit worship and the natural landscape.

Priced at $48.21, it’s a budget-friendly option for travelers who want in-depth, flexible exploration of the mountain’s religious sites and rural surroundings. The guide’s local knowledge and careful planning help you maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, detailed visit with cultural and scenic highlights.

12. Tuk Tuk tour to Mt. Popa

A fun, informal way to visit Mount Popa, this Tuk Tuk tour is suited for small groups. It costs about $66.67 for up to two people and lasts around 8 hours. You’ll explore the Nat Museum, climb the 777 steps, and enjoy local village stops.

The relaxed, open-air ride offers a more local experience, with opportunities to chat with drivers and locals along the way. It’s less structured but perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate, day-long adventure with flexible stops.

Bottom Line: Great for those who want a casual, local-style trip with a bit of adventure.

13. Visiting Mount Popa from Bagan – Private Tour

This private tour combines scenic drives and cultural visits with a focus on climbing Mount Popa and exploring rural Myanmar. It includes hotel pickup, a guide, and an itinerary designed for flexibility. The 6.5-hour trip is perfect for those who want a personalized, immersive experience.

The highlight is climbing the 777 steps to the temple complex, with views over the countryside. Its price ($48.21) makes it accessible for budget travelers who value customized, private sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a flexible, private day focused on religious and rural Myanmar.

14. Private Bagan day tour by car with horse cart

This fully private day tour combines temple visits, village exploration, and a sunset cruise. It includes stops at Shwezigon, Gubyaukgyi, and Ananda temples, plus a ride through Myingaba village on a horse cart, and ends with a relaxing river cruise. The cost is about $69.77 per person for 8 hours.

The combination of cultural sightseeing and a river cruise makes it versatile. Reviewers note it’s a full, immersive day with personalized attention. It’s perfect for those who want to combine history, local life, and scenic relaxation.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive day with multiple activities and a personalized touch.

15. Bagan Cycling Tour (Villages & Temples Cycling Explorer)

If you’re up for some exercise, this Cycling Explorer offers a 7-hour bike ride through Bagan’s countryside and temples. It includes visits to Dhammayazika Pagoda, Shwesandaw, and local workshops, with an emphasis on authentic village life.

Cycling provides an up-close look at Bagan’s rural scenery that motorized tours can’t match. The cost is $129.24 per group, making it an affordable, active alternative for active travelers.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine physical activity with culture in Bagan’s landscape.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting a Bagan tour, think about your interests and travel style. If you prefer a relaxed, rundown, the Old Bagan Sightseeing Tour or the Full Day by Car and Guide might suit you best. For more photo-focused adventures, the Faces of Bagan Photography Tour delivers tailored shots of everyday life.

Travelers on a tight schedule might opt for the Half-day Mount Popa or Private Mount Popa trips, while those craving a multi-day deep dive should consider the Bagan and Mount Popa Private Tour.

For those seeking a more active experience, cycling or horse cart tours provide authentic ways to see the countryside. Remember, booking early is wise—especially in high season—to secure your preferred date and guide.

Final Thoughts

Bagan offers a broad spectrum of tour experiences—whether you’re after a luxurious full day, a cultural deep dive, or a photo safari. The range from budget-friendly private tours to full-day explorations with scenic stops means there’s something for every traveler. For history buffs, the Antique Day Tour dives into the art and architecture, while the Faces of Bagan Photography Tour caters to shutterbugs.

No matter which tour you choose, remember that early booking can help you secure the best guides and dates, making your Bagan experience both smooth and memorable. Prepare to marvel at one of the world’s most staggering archaeological landscapes and make your trip to Myanmar truly unforgettable.