The ancient city of Bagan, or Pagan, was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom between the 9th and the 13th centuries. The Pagan Kindomg was tghe first kingdom to unite the regions that would later become Myanmar. During that time some 10,000 temples were built in Bagan, but nowadays only the remains of about 2,200 can still be seen.

In 1287, Kublai Khan destroyed the city and it has never been rebuilt. Out of the ruined temples, the Ananda, Gawdawpalin and Thatbyinnyu are the most interesting ones. The Bagan Archaeological Zone is one of the main tourist attractions in Myanmar.

Accommodation is available in Bagan, but most people prefer to stay in Mandalay, 150 km to the northeast and visit Bagan on a day trip.

Bagan is 505 km northwest of Yangon. The city sits on the Ayeyarwady River (Irrawaddy) and interesting boat trips from Bagan to Pyay are available in town. The journey takes two days and you should bring your own supplies of food and water.

Bagan is inscribed in the UNESCO list of world hertage sites.