Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples (Wanderlist Activity – Burma)

As the sun rises over thousands of ancient pagodas, the warm light transforms the landscape into a glowing sea of temples and mist. Floating quietly above the Bagan plains offers a perspective no temple climb or viewpoint can match. There is a reason why a hot air balloon ride in Bagan Burma is one of the world’s most iconic travel and was one of my wanderlist experiences – here’s what it was really like.

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The History of Bagan: A Thousand-Year-Old Kingdom

Bagan’s story begins more than 1,000 years ago, during the height of the Pagan Kingdom (9th–13th century). It became the region’s cultural and religious center, leading to the construction of over 10,000 temples, stupas, and monasteries across the plains and hence why some still call Bagan “the land of the 10,000 temples”.

Best Season for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Bagan

Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples

Activity Details

My Experience on the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples

Early Morning Pickup / Quick Briefing

• This activity does include pickup/drop off and I was picked up as scheduled and driven to the balloon launch site which varies day-to-day depending on weather.
• This was my first ever hot air balloon ride and I was especially stoked that the pilot was a woman! Here she is going over the quick briefing including going over safety consideration such as how to get into and out of the basket, what you can and cannot do during the flight and how to prepare for the landing. She then discussed what to expect during the flight and what we would possibly see – one of the interesting things is that we ride the wind with the pilots making adjustments but the course is determined by Mother Nature!
• There were some light refreshments with tea and coffee and also one last chance to use a toilet before the ride would begin.

Balloon Inflation

What The Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples Was Like

One of the most magical moments is watching dozens of balloons float in the half-light.

Flames illuminate the giant canopies, making it a photographer’s dream.

I loved that there were so many other balloons out on this morning as they helped framed my photos.

These sunrise rides are always just really peaceful with the sun slowly rising as you slowly make your way over the landscapes.

Ballooning does not usually affect those people who are scared of heights.

Because the balloon travels with the wind, the basket is very stable and does not sway or rock during flight. There is no sense of vertigo or motion.

Temples as far as the eye can see and you understand how Bagan became known as The Land of Ten Thousand Temples

Understanding Bagan’s history makes a balloon flight even more powerful as you’re floating over a landscape that shaped Burma’s spiritual identity.

Seeing temples from a completely different vantage point / being so high up in the balloon

Landing & Champagne Toast

After touch down, a light breakfast awaits with some bubbly, fruits, and pastries as well as your flight certificate, postcard, and Balloons Over Bagan hat. All making for a wonderful morning made perfect with the classic Balloons Over Bagan flight for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the ages.

What to Wear & Bring

• Wear layers as mornings can be chilly but many find the ride to be warm due to the hot air
• Also wear closed-toe shoes as you will be climbing in and out of the basket.
• Also wear sunglasses and sunscreen
• Avoid loose scarves or long dresses.
• Don’t forget to fully charge your phone and/or camera
• At most bring a small bag due to space restrictions in the basket

I visited Bagan when one was still able to climb up the temples to watch the sunset and look out at other temples. Even more reason now to book your Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples

FAQs: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Bagan, Burma

• Is It Safe? Yes. Only certified, licensed operators run flights under strict safety standards. Opt to book with a truster operator such as Balloons Over Bagan (look for certifications, safety records, and experienced pilots!)
• How long is the flight? The ride lasts 45–60 minutes depending on weather and wind
• Do flights run every day? During dry season, yes with weather permitting.
• Is there a weight limit? Usually around 250–300 lbs per passenger, depending on company. Balloons Over Bagan will allow passengers in excess of 125 kg / 280 pounds, but they must purchase an additional space to ensure safety, comfort, and proper weight distribution during flight
• Can kids fly? Balloons Over Bagan’s minimum age is 7 years and 4’1” tall or 125 cm (passengers must be able to see over the basket).

Final Thoughts: A True Bucket List / Wanderlist Experience

A hot air balloon ride in Bagan, Burma, blends adventure with ancient history, offering an unmatched view of one of the world’s greatest temple landscapes. Floating above the plains at sunrise brings the full beauty and magnitude of Bagan’s thousand-year-old heritage into perspective.

Other Things to Do in After Your Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan Temples

• Tour Bagan via private car or E-bike
• Sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy River
• Mount Popa day trip
• Traditional lacquerware workshops
• Old Bagan photography routes