BAGAN BALLOONING
ABOUT BAGAN
Bagan in Myanmar, is a historical city scattered with over 5000 temples and Pagodas covering an area of 40 square kilometres. This fascinating place was called Pagan in the past and it was built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
With their own story to tell, Bagan’s Pagodas are at their best during dawn and dusk when the sun comes up or down highlighting the magical beauty of the ruins.
THE MAGIC AWAITS
Since 1999, visitors have been privileged to enjoy this unique spectacle from the enchanting platform of a hot air balloon basket. Balloons Over Bagan takes you in complete comfort high above the region for 45 minutes at sunrise to see the majesty of the ancient temples that dot the landscape in all their splendour and safety. All equipment is manufactured in the UK and all pilots and technicians are well experienced commercial balloon pilots and inspectors from UK, Belgium, Canada and Australia. Taking off each morning just before sunrise, there is a choice of Premium or Classic service flights. You just have to make your choice …
THE EXPERIENCE
Your adventure starts with a short journey in one of the romantic converted vintage buses to one of the dedicated launch sites. The growing light reveals the teams busy at work preparing your balloon against a backdrop of ancient temples shrouded in mist. There is time for tea, coffee and refreshments before the all important safety briefing.
With the balloons now standing upright, it is time to climb on board and helpful crew are on hand to assist you into the basket. The balloon is guided by gentle winds not exceeding 15 mph, allowing passengers a serene and peaceful bird's-eye view of ancient temples drifting by. Using skill and years of flight experience in Bagan the pilot is able to guide the balloon to a gentle landing where friendly and experienced crew will be waiting for you with fruits, fresh pastries and a glass or two of sparkling wine to complete the post flight celebration.
The UPGRADE
For a more intimate and luxurious experience, try the Premium Service in one of the smaller 8 passenger balloons with your own dedicated launch area and private basket compartments for couples. A special parting gift provides a lasting memory of your experience with us. A highlight of this unique Premium Service is a guided interactive tour around the balloon during inflation from your pilot just prior to take off, separate continental full breakfast after landing with sparkling wine and free inflight photos.
the Bagan archaeological zone
The best thing about Bagan's temples is that right after you pay the entrance fee of $20, you are free to roam around for as many days as you want, but remember to take the ticket with you at all times, especially when you check in at a hotel. There are many ways to see the temples.
Ride a hot air balloon - of course!
Take a cab (A/C) - the easiest and the most comfortable way to explore the temples, with an English speaking driver. It will cost you around $50 per day. The fee changes according to the season and the distance.
Horse Cart tour - this is for the romance lovers who love to explore new routes and hidden temples. It won't cost you more than $50 per day. The fee changes according to the route you take and the distance.
Cycling - the cheapest, the healthiest and the easiest way to travel with freedom of choice. You can rent out a cycle at every hotel and guest house for $2 - $4, $10 for an electrical bike. The only downside to this is, it might get too hot and sweaty out there, especially during the hot months. Take plenty of water with you