Also known as Yangon, Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar. It’s a place full of people, amazing pagodas and temples and a mixture of British colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers that has a lot to offer. When you get tired of the bustle of the city and feel like enjoying other Myanmar attractions, head north to explore the ancient city of Bagan, where historical Buddhist monuments and archaeological sites are often compared to Angkor Wat and Machu Picchu. Bagan is one of those places that cannot be missing from your list. If you want to know the best way to get from Yangon to Bagan, keep reading for all the details.
Bagan Plains © amnat30 / Shutterstock.com
Transportation options from Yangon to Bagan
The truth is that there is a long distance from Yangon to Bagan, so it takes some time to travel from one city to another. Of course the trip is worth it. The road is 620 kilometers (390 miles) and if you travel by taxi or private car, you can expect to travel around 9 hours, although almost all travelers choose the bus as it is convenient and cheap, or even the train, which is also very economical. The most expensive way to get from Yangon to Bagan is by plane. Although much more expensive than other means of transport, it is a good way to go from one city to another to enjoy this ancient city. Below we will explain the options available to you so that you can decide on the best way to get from Yangon to Bagan according to your budget and itinerary.
Flights from Yangon to Bagan
Bagan Nyaung U Airport ©pocztos / Shutterstock.com
If price is not an issue for you, flying from Yangon to Bagan is without a doubt the best way to travel between the two cities, especially if you don’t want to sit in a cramped space for several hours. The flight time is only 1 hour 20 minutes and there are typically five airlines that operate this route depending on the season: Air KBZ, Asian Wings Airways, Mann Yatanarpon Airlines, Myanmar National Airlines and Yangon Airways.
Tickets are expensive, but considering the time savings and comfort on a plane compared to a bus or train, it might be worth spending more on this option. Take a good look at the prices and be flexible in choosing the day and time of travel to save a little more. Out of season, it’s easy to find good deals.
One of the best things about flying from Yangon to Bagan, apart from the duration of the flight, is that you will be able to enjoy the amazing views of the Bagan temples as you approach and land at Nyaung U Airport, so we advise you to go to the window.
By bus from Yangon to Bagan
Yangon Bus Station © jkcDesign / Shutterstock.com
Traveling by bus from Yangon to Bagan is a good option if you don’t want to pay for a plane ticket. Admittedly, the buses are quite slow and the journey can be a bit bumpy on Myanmar’s roads, but if you’re traveling with enough money, they’re a good alternative.
Choose from two of the most reputable companies: Bagan Min Tha and JJ Express. You can also choose to travel during the day or at night. The day bus from Bagan Min Tha leaves Yangon at 8am and arrives in Bagan around 6pm the same day, so it will take around 10 hours to get there. The advantage of day buses is that you can enjoy the scenery along the way. You also don’t have to worry about the heat during the day as the buses are always air-conditioned.
Since the journey from Yangon to Bagan is long, many travelers prefer to take the overnight bus to sleep on the way. The advantage of the night bus is that you don’t lose vacation hours and you also save an overnight stay.
If you choose the express bus, you will have standard seats and bathrooms on board, stewardess service and refreshments. For night buses, it’s worth spending a little more on the VIP bus. Both companies have VIP buses, but for a slightly more comfortable journey we recommend JJ Express.
Train from Yangon to Bagan
Yangon Central Station © Hagen Simon / Shutterstock.com
The last option to travel from Yangon to Bagan is by train. It is the slowest mode of transport, but it can also be the cheapest depending on the travel class you choose. Traveling by train from Yangon to Bagan is usually not the most recommended option due to the duration of the journey, but the train has its advantages. First of all, traveling by train is quite an experience that allows you to enjoy the views all the way in peace. If you choose a compartment with a bed, you will have a place to sleep. Also, if you are traveling with family or friends, you can all be in the same compartment. But the truth is that not many choose to travel by train and this is only an option to consider if you have a lot of time and need to save some money as it takes around 17 hours to travel from Yangon to Bagan.
If you are considering traveling by train, remember that there are no sleeping cars on day trains in the low season, so you’ll have to settle for a seat. This may be another reason to take the bus or plane, but ultimately it’s up to you.