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Bagan

Bagan is the main tourist attraction site in Myanmar and also known as the birth place of Myanmar Civilization. This one splendid and glorious capital of the first Myanmar Empire, is now a 42 square kilometer area dotted with thousands of ancient pagodas, stupas, shrines, ordination halls and monuments. It is one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia with over 2200 monuments still standing and some 2000 in ruins. Time, man and nature, particularly earthquakes, have taken their toll but the most important monuments have been restored to their original grandeur and there are plans to restore 287 more of the most historically important ruins.
 

Interesting Places
 

Shwezigon Pagoda

This golden pagoda was the first monument built in the Myanmar style, the prototype for later pagodas. It was first built by King Anarahta and completed by King Kyansittha in 1087. "Nats" (Spirit) images can be found within its precincts.

Ananda Temple

The Ananda Temple built after the Shwezigon Pagoda in 1090 is the masterpiece of the early style temple architecture. There are four huge Buddha images in the stantding position position and eighty reliefs depicting the llife of the Buddha from his birth to his Enlightenment.
 

Thatbyinnyu Temple

This temple, a white stucco building, is the Bagan's highest pagoda. It was built by King Alaungsithu in mid 12th century. The view from its terraces is spectacular both at dawn and dusk.

Gawdawpalin Temple

This 13th century temple is like Thatbyinnyu,, about 60 metres high with a fine view of the Bagan plains.
 

Dhammayangyi Temple

Bagan's most massive temple, Dhammayangyi was built by King Narathu in 1167. This temple was not finished but it displayed the finest brickwork.

 

Gubyaukgyi Temple

This early 13th century temple displays a strong influence of Indian culture. Inside are the wall paintings and 28 Buddha images in sitting position.

Shwesandaw Pagoda

This apgoda built by King Anawratha in early 11th century displays a strong Mon influence with a steep stairway directly to the terraces for a superb view from the upper level.

Sulamani Temple

A temple bulit in 1181 by King Narapatisithu is known for its murals dating from 11th - 12th century.

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