The Best Ways to Experience the Temple Town of Bagan

This month, Sanctuary Ananda docks in Myanmar’s temple town. The ship’s concierge, Phyone Phyone Maw, reveals its secrets to Akash Arora. 

Where should I go to stretch my legs?

Yone Nyaung Pin Street, a 10-minute walk from the jetty, is the perfect place to watch locals 
go about their daily lives: novice monks walking 
to the monastery, fruit and vegetable vendors, children at play and locals deep in conversation.

Where can I get a decent coffee?

For the best coffee, visit Traditions Cafe, Bar & Souvenirs (corner of Nyaung U-Kyaukpadaung and Anawrahta roads, Nyaung-U; +95 61 60 447).

Where should I go for genuine Burmese food?

Myo Myo Myanmar Rice Food restaurant (Bagan-Nyaung U Road, Nyaung-U) is well regarded among locals. It serves a delicious range of authentic dishes.

What’s a great place for drinks?

HTI Bar & Restaurant (Thiripyitsayar 4 Street, Nyaung-U; +95 9 40263 0869) is the place to go for evening drinks. It has an impressive list of cocktails and lounge-style seating. And there’s an excellent menu of European and Asian fare.

And for shopping?

Myanmar is famous for lacquerware. It’s a craft handed down from generation to generation. See artisans at work at Bagan House then visit the showroom to buy high-quality pieces – they make excellent mementos.

SEE ALSO: Cruise Myanmar's Mystic River

Top image: Bagan's ancient Sulamani Temple is adorned with Buddhist statues and murals.