How To Reach Gawdawpalin Temple

Traveling to Gawdawpalin Temple in Bagan, Myanmar

Gawdawpalin Temple is one of the largest and most impressive temples in Bagan, Myanmar. If you are planning a visit to this ancient temple, here is a detailed guide on how to reach it:

By Air:

Flying into Myanmar, you will likely land at Yangon International Airport or Mandalay International Airport. From these entry points, you can take a domestic flight to Nyaung U Airport, which is the closest airport to Bagan. Most domestic airlines including Myanmar National Airlines, Air KBZ, and Mann Yadanarpon Airlines operate flights to Nyaung U. Once you arrive at the airport, you can hire a taxi or a tuk-tuk to take you to Gawdawpalin Temple. The drive is approximately 10 kilometers and takes around 20 minutes.

By Bus:

Bagan is well-connected by bus to major cities in Myanmar such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Inle Lake. From the bus station in Bagan, you can take a local taxi or rent a bicycle or electric scooter to reach the Gawdawpalin Temple. The journey from the bus station should take less than 30 minutes.

By Train:

Although the train journey can be long and the ride bumpy, it is a unique way to experience the countryside of Myanmar. Trains run from Yangon and Mandalay to the Bagan Railway Station in Nyaung U. From there, you can take a taxi or local transportation to the temple.

By Boat:

If you are coming from Mandalay, you can opt for a scenic river cruise on the Irrawaddy River which takes you to Bagan. Upon arrival at the Bagan jetty, you can find a taxi or other forms of local transport to Gawdawpalin Temple.

Once in Bagan:

To explore the temple grounds, you can rent a bicycle, an e-bike, or hire a horse cart. Local tour guides are also available for a more informative visit. Please remember that Bagan is a large archaeological zone, so having a map or a planned route can be very helpful to navigate through the numerous pagodas and temples, including the Gawdawpalin Temple.

Note: Do check for the latest travel advisories, temple opening hours, and transportation schedules before planning your trip, as these can change due to various factors including weather and festivals.