Things To Do
in Bago
Bago sits on the Bago River southeast of Yangon, known for its Buddhist heritage and tranquil river life. The city centers around ancient stupas, gilded temples, and lacquer workshops where artisans keep traditional crafts alive. Wandering the temples and river towns reveals everyday life with a distinctly Burmese rhythm, away from the more crowded tourist tracks.
With a slower pace and friendly locals, Bago offers a rewarding glimpse into regional history and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Shwethalyaung Pagoda, home to one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the world. As you wander through the serene grounds, take in the intricate details of the statues and the tranquil atmosphere. Don't forget to engage with the local monks, who may offer a glimpse into their daily routines and practices.
After a delicious local lunch at a nearby restaurant, head over to the Kyaikpun Pagoda, famous for its four colossal sitting Buddhas. Explore the ancient architecture and the surrounding lush gardens, where you can relax and reflect. Be sure to capture stunning photographs of the unique pagoda structure from various angles.
As the sun sets, stroll through the vibrant local market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and sample traditional Burmese snacks. Engage with local vendors and learn about Burmese culture and cuisine as you browse through colorful crafts and textiles. Conclude your day with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Mohinga and Laphet Thoke.
Begin your day with a visit to a local monastery, where you can witness the morning alms ceremony as monks collect offerings from locals. This serene experience offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of the community and the importance of generosity in Burmese culture. Afterward, take part in a meditation session led by a resident monk, allowing you to center yourself and reflect.
Spend the afternoon learning about traditional crafts by visiting a nearby artisan workshop that specializes in weaving and pottery. Interact with skilled artisans who will share their techniques and stories, providing insight into their crafts. Try your hand at creating your own pottery piece, a memorable souvenir from your trip.
Enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the monastery grounds, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and serene landscape. As dusk falls, join the monks for a simple yet flavorful meal, a true taste of their daily fare. Reflect on the day's lessons and experiences, deepening your appreciation for Burmese culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Buddhist heritage and architecture
- Affordable, relaxed travel experience
- Friendly locals and river landscapes
- Hot weather and humidity in peak season
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure outside Yangon
- Longer travel times to and from Bago vs Yangon city center
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyae zu tin ba" - Thank you
- "Ae tha ba (excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Naung ba de?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Bago
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic reclining Buddha and surrounding courtyard, especially atmospheric at early morning light.
A golden stupa complex with a dramatic skyline silhouette.
Colorful market scenes and daily life, good for candid street photography.
Calm river scenes with temple silhouettes at dusk.
Close-up shots of artisans shaping and painting lacquerware.
Food in Bago
Bago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish noodle soup often considered Myanmar’s national dish; try it at a street stall or riverfront cafe.
Must-Try!
Tea leaf salad tossed with sesame, nuts, and crunchy elements; a staple snack and meal partner.
Burmese-style noodles with meat or vegetables in a fragrant broth and toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The city’s main market for fresh produce, snacks, herbs, and everyday eats; great for trying local specialties.
Evening stalls along the river offer fried snacks, grilled fish, and cool drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove shoes and socks; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Burmese greet with a slight bow; use polite language and avoid raising voices in public.
Ask permission before taking portraits of people; some temples restrict photography inside certain temples.
Safety
Tipping in Bago
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for hotel staff, drivers, guides; small amounts (1-5 USD) are common for a day's service.
Cash (Kyats) is the most widely accepted; some hotels and larger shops may take cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for small transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry conditions with temperatures often above 35°C (95°F); stay hydrated, plan outdoor activities for mornings.
June–October brings heavy rain and high humidity; rain gear helps and some outdoor sites may be limited.
November to February offers comfortable temperatures and clearer skies; excellent for temple visits and photos.
Bago at Night
Hiking in Bago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes along the Bago River with opportunities to observe rural life.
Short, accessible hikes with temple viewpoints and scenic vantages.
Airports
How to reach Bago by plane.
Main gateway to the region; best to arrange road transfer to Bago (about 1.5–2.5 hours depending on traffic).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group; Burmese language and culture predominate.
There are smaller communities of Mon, Karen, and others in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport to watch and play; local teams and informal games abound.
Tradition combat sport occasionally showcased in events and cultural centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries provide vegetable curries and tofu dishes; look for bean curries and salads, and ask for no fish sauce.