Things to Do
As it may get quite hot during the daytime, outdoor activities may not be the best option depending on the actual temperature. You can, however, participate in the festival of Full Moon Day in Tabaung, which is an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture. Another good option would be to relax in your hotel or enjoy one of the Top Restaurants in Bagan.
Participate in the Month 12 Full Moon Day Event
The Full Moon Day in Tabaung (the 12th and last month of the Burmese calendar), which is also called the Magha Puja or Tabodwe Full Moon Day, is a nationwide festival for Buddhists, which involves merit-making.
The celebration falls on a full moon day in March or April according to the third Burmese calendar, and marks the transition between winter and summer. During the festival, people give special alms to monks in the pagodas.
The Full Moon Day Event in BaganPagodas are full of people, including local people and tourists who are interested in listening to sermons. Outside the pagodas and on the street, lots of local vendors sell handcrafts, local food, and other items as souvenirs.
This festival is the best opportunity to experience the local traditions of the Burmese people. The festival is similar to Makha Bucha Day of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Explore Bagan on a Hot Air Balloon
For every tourist who comes to Bagan, a hot air balloon ride is a must. The ballooning season in Bagan is usually from mid-October to Mid-March. During this period, the winds are calmer and the air is cooler.
Flying over the unique Bagan plain, you will be astounded and amazed by the beauty and diversity of the temples and pagodas. The only way to witness the massive scale of these 2,000 temples is by taking a hot air balloon flight over Bagan.
Hot-Air Balloon Flight in BaganBe aware: Taking a hot-air balloon trip is not for those who are scared of heights. We recommend a maximum of eight passengers per balloon, as it will be much easier to take pictures with fewer people sharing the basket. Please be aware that there is no toilet aboard the balloon.
Enjoy Leisure Time in Your Hotel
As March is at the peak of Myanmar's hot season, the weather may become unbearably hot, especially in the afternoon. During this period, relaxing in your hotel is undoubtedly the best choice. In Bagan, there are lots of indoor activities for you to do inside hotels, such as Aureum Palace Hotel and Arthawka Hotel.
Aureum Palace Hotel is located on Ngapali beach, beside the famous Watch Tower. The hotel is well equipped with spa rooms, swimming pool, bars, clubs as well as restaurants. You can enjoy massages in the spa room, have a drink at the bar, or go swimming. The beach bungalows are lovely and it's a great spot for watching the sunset.
Arthawka Hotel in Bagan is strategically located in the city center of New Bagan. It takes only a few minutes from the hotel to the Gawdawpalin Temple and Archaeological Museum. This is the best three-star hotel in Bagan. You can enjoy great afternoon tea in the quiet and romantic rooftop restaurant.