Bago

When talking about tourism in Myanmar, people will immediately think of Yangon or Bagan... However, there is another city in Myanmar that will give you amazing experiences, and that is the ancient city of Bago. 

Bago, located about 80km north of Yangon, is a small city with a low population, yet it attracts visitors with its numerous Buddha statues and historic pagodas. In addition to its rich historical heritage, Bago stands out with its unique cultural features, including traditional festivals, exquisite sculpture art, ancient architecture, and a distinctive culinary culture. With the combination of historical heritage, unique culture, and beautiful nature, the port city of Bago offers visitors a diverse and exciting experience when exploring Myanmar’s tourist destination. 

 

 

The best time to visit Bago is from November to February, during the dry season in Southern Myanmar. During this period, the weather in Bago is typically dry and cooler compared to the rainy season from June to October. The rainy months can bring heavy rainfall, making travel and sightseeing more difficult. Therefore, the period from November to February is considered the most suitable for exploring Bago comfortably and easily.

How to get there

Currently, Bago does not have an airport, so you will need to fly into the airport in Yangon. After arriving in Yangon, there are several options to travel to Bago, such as buses, trains, taxis, or renting a motorcycle. The train is usually preferred as the travel time is not too long, around 2.5 hours, and the price is reasonable.

Bago does not have an airport, so you will need to fly into the airport in Yangon

Best attractions in Bago

Shwethalyaung Buddha Statue

This is considered the symbol of Bago city and is the second largest reclining Buddha statue in the world. Any visitor to Bago would want to visit this site. According to records, the statue was created by the Mon people in 994, but it was severely damaged in 1757 and left abandoned for many years. Later, it was rediscovered in a tropical forest and restored. 

Shwemawdaw Pagoda
This famous pagoda stands at 114 meters tall, holding the record as the tallest pagoda in Myanmar. The Shwemawdaw Pagoda is not only an impressive structure but also considered a place that houses precious relics such as the Buddha’s tooth and hair, as well as a rare ancient bell cast during the reign of King Dhammazedi. 

Shwemawdaw Pagoda

Kanbawzathadi Royal Palace
Built during the Taungoo Dynasty, this palace takes visitors back in time with its unique architecture and ancient relics of Myanmar. It is a place where you can explore the history and culture of the Taungoo Dynasty through artifacts, architectural structures, and remnants from ancient times. 

Hintha Gon Pagoda
Most major ceremonies and spiritual activities in Bago take place at Hintha Gon. Visitors often choose Hintha Gon as a spiritual stop to pray for good luck and to ward off bad fortune. Worship at Hintha Gon Pagoda is usually done in hopes of receiving blessings for luck and peace. 

Kyaik Pun Pagoda
Kyaik Pun Pagoda is famous for its four 27-meter tall Buddha statues, standing side by side and facing the four cardinal directions. Each statue has a different appearance and name, with the Gautama statue representing the Sakyamuni Buddha, considered the present Buddha. This pagoda attracts tourists in Myanmar due to its beauty and sacredness. 

Conclusion 

With its rich historical and cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and beautiful natural surroundings, Bago is a fantastic destination for those who wish to explore the diversity and richness of Myanmar. Get ready for an amazing journey at this wonderful place.