Bagan is home to over 2,200 temples and pagodas, making it one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Asia. These temples and pagodas were built during the Bagan Kingdom (1044-1287 AD), and they represent a wide range of architectural styles,

Ananda and That Byin Nyu behind:

Ananda Temple, located on the southern stretch of Bagan-Nyaung U Rd, is Bagan's holiest temple, built in 1091 by King Kyan-Zit-Tha. The name "Ananda" comes from the Pali word meaning "boundless wisdom," signifying one of Buddha's principal disciples. The temple houses four Buddhas representing those who have attained Nirvana, with the fifth, Maitreya, yet to appear. Recently renovated with support from India, the temple now offers unique and impressive views due to its distinctive sandy reddish exterior.

Dhamma Yangyi Temple:

Commissioned by King Narathu to atone for the sins of assassinating his father, brother, and wife. He is said to have had his wife killed for following Hindu traditions. The eccentricity of this king is reflected in the building's finely set brickwork: he executed a bricklayer for his imperfect masonry, and ordered that bricks should be laid such that there is not enough space for even a needle to pass through. Also mysterious is its unfinished construction (work abandoned after he himself was assassinated). Inner vaults are large and current occupants include bats. It is believed to be a haunted temple by some inhabitants, but clearly not by the noisy hawkers who set up shop right in front of the Buddha and appear to live in the side passages.

Manuhar Pagoda:

Located at the south end of Myinkaba Village along Bagan-Chauk Rd, this temple, marked by a free-standing column, was built by the Mon King Manuhar from Thaton kingdom. Manuhar, a former prisoner of King Anawratha, built the temple with proceeds from selling his jewelry. It showcases Mon architecture and houses three sitting Buddhas and one reclining Buddha. The temple's unique design, featuring half-smiling Buddhas that appear to frown when viewed from below, reflects Manuhar's feelings of claustrophobia and despair during his imprisonment.

Htilominlo Temple:

Located 1.5 km northeast of Old Bagan, this temple, named "Blessings of the Three Worlds," is popular among tourists. Built in 1218 by King Nantaungmya, it is likely the final temple constructed in the region, showcasing traditional Myanmar style. Notably, intricately carved reliefs adorn its doorways.

Shwe Gugyi Temple (in front of Thatbyinnyu Temple):

Commissioned by King Alaunsithu in 1131, one of the most intact temples, thus needing less imagination to appreciate.

Shwe Zigon Temple:

This temple, situated on the northern stretch of Bagan-Nyaung U Rd after the bus station, was completed in 1102 during King Anawrahta's reign. It is believed to house a relic of Gautama Buddha and served as the prototype for other Myanmar-style structures, including the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. The temple features intricate dancing figures and drawings depicting life stages. Despite renovation work in 2016, it remains well-maintained. Visitors can enjoy the artwork and souvenir stalls along the covered walkway leading to the temple.

That Byin Nyu Temple (That Byin Nyu Guphayagyi):

Anawrahta Road (left side after entering the Tharaba Gate of Old Bagan, the second road). That Byin Nyu Temple was built in the mid-12th century during the reign of King Alaungsithu. Adjacent to Ananda Temple, it is the tallest structure in Bagan. “Thatbyinnyu” means “omniscience”, which the Buddha is said to have attained upon enlightenment. There are some run-down temples nearby That Byin Nyu, and an old city wall that is a short walk away.

Shwesandaw Pagoda:

Shwesandaw Pagoda (south side of the southern Bagan-Nyaung U road, almost opposite Ananda). Tiered pagoda very popular for sunrise and sunset.

Gawdaw Palin Temple:

Gawdaw Palin Temple (Located north of the Archaeological Museum in Old Bagan, this temple is a blend of Burmese and Indian architectural styles. It features a lovely courtyard with a medium-sized stupa and unique bell hangers. A symbol of modern Bagan architecture, it's possibly the second tallest temple in the area and shares a layout with Thatbyinnyu Temple. Despite being heavily damaged in the 1975 earthquake, it has been reconstructed.

Myazedi Pagoda and Gu Byauk Gyi temple (west):

Myazedi Pagoda and Gu Byauk Gyi temple in Old Bagan, just southwest of Mingala zedi). Myazedi pagoda contains the Myazedi inscription, inscribed in 1113, which is the oldest surviving stone inscription of the Burmese as recognized by UNESCO at this site. "Myazedi" means "emerald stupa". The inscriptions were made in four languages: Burmese, Pyu, Mon, and Pali, which all tell the story of Prince Yazakumar and King Kyansittha. The primary importance of the Myazedi inscription is that the inscriptions allowed for the deciphering of the written Pyu language, thus acting as the 'Rosetta stone' of Pyu language. The nearby Gu Byauk Gyi temple is well-worth a visit for its enormous frescoes covering every inch of its inner walls. There is scarce lighting inside, but thoughtfully two large torches are provided which allow you to appreciate the artwork.