While Bagan’s ancient temples captivate most travelers, truly adventurous visitors can venture further off the dusty paths around Old Bagan and discover the local charm, history, and culture of the area’s lesser-known villages and natural wonders.
From peaceful villages that keep ancient craftsmanship alive to sacred mountains and colonial towns, these four hidden gems offer a deeper connection to Myanmar’s heritage.
Minnanthu Village: Lacquer You’ll Like
Minnanthu Village is just off Old Bagan, and remains a haven for traditional craftsmanship. A row of lacquerware shops welcomes visitors, where one can pop in, see artisans at work, and even try one’s hand at making their own lacquerware.
Watch as layer upon layer of lacquer is applied with precision, then patterns etched out by hand—a meticulous process that turns simple pieces into stunning works of art. Other shops give tourists a look at traditional cotton weaving, cheroot-making, and silverware production, offering a full immersion into Myanmar’s rich handicraft traditions.
Zee O Village: Sweet Surrender
A 30-minute drive southeast of Bagan, Zee O Village boasts a long pedigree rich in both history and spirituality. Its thousand-year-old tamarind tree and ancient blacksmith relics hint at the village’s deep-rooted past.
Palm sugar and traditional oil production are the lifeblood of this village, and a morning visit lets you witness these processes firsthand. Don’t forget to buy some jaggery before heading back—a sweet souvenir of your visit.
Mount Popa: Communing with the Nats
A prominent pilgrimage site, Mount Popa stands about 50 km from Bagan. This extinct volcano is famous for its association with the Burmese Nat spirits, with 777 steps leading up to the Taung Kalat Monastery at its summit.
Along the way, macaques provide some lively company—just be mindful of your belongings. The reward for your climb? Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Sale: Stories in Carved Wood
Nestled 55 miles from Bagan, Sale blends history, art, and architecture. Colonial buildings dot the town, but it’s the 130-year-old Yokesone Kyaung Monastery that steals the show with its detailed wooden carvings depicting Buddhist Jataka tales and Ramayana stories.
Once home to famed Bagan-era poet Salay U Ponya, the town is also known for its traditional lacquerware and plum cultivation.
