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How to get from Bagan to Hpa An
The ancient city of Bagan in Myanmar is listed prominently on most Myanmar travellers’ bucket list. It’s known for the vast Bagan Archeological Area, noted for its multitudes of magnificent Buddhist temples.
Hpa An is an emerging destination offering a plethora of experiences for any visitor. Wander the rice paddies, watch local fisherman, or just relax in the backpacker-friendly town. More adventurous travellers may choose to hike up nearby Mount Zwegabin to admire the view from the summit. Alternatively, explore what lies beneath the lush hills by touring the sprawling cave systems underneath.
2 ways to get from Bagan to Hpa An
To travel the 700 km journey from Bagan to Hpa An, you have 2 options. The cheapest option is to take a bus via Yangon ($19) which takes about 17 hours. Alternatively, you can take an 80-minute flight (from $85) to Yangon followed by a 7-hour bus ride to Hpa An ($5).
Bagan to Hpa An via Yangon by Bus
There are no direct buses from Bagan going to Hpa An. Instead, you will have to take a bus to Yangon first, and then another bus to Hpa An.
See below two example schedules we would recommend when you decide to take the bus from Bagan to Hpa An:
Bus schedules from Bagan to Hpa An
| Bus company | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandalar Minn (Bagan – Yangon) Mi Ba Gone Express (Yangon – Hpa An) | 19:30-05:30 07:30-14:30 | 10 hours 7 hours | $14 $5 |
| Mandalar Minn (Bagan – Yangon) Mi Ba Gone Express (Yangon – Hpa An) | 20:00-06:00 08:00-15:00 | 10 hours 7 hours | $14 $5 |
Notice that the schedules allow you to leave Bagan in the evening and arrive in Hpa An in the afternoon. It should also save you one night of accommodation.
Below we will explain step-by-step how you can book these tickets from Bagan to Hpa An.
Step 1: Bagan to Yangon by Bus
There are several bus companies operating lines from Bagan to Yangon. Travel time usually takes 10 hours, with departures as early as 07:30 and as late as 21:00. A bus that provides good service and has comfortable seats should set you back about $14.
All buses depart from Bagan Shwe Pyi Highway Bus Terminal located about 10 kilometers from New Bagan. To reach the bus terminal, you can take a taxi for $6.
Buses all arrive in Aung Mingalar Highway Station located about 15 kilometers from Downtown Yangon.
Step 2: Yangon to Hpa An by Bus
From the arrival point in Yangon (Aung Mingalar Highway Bus Station), there are several buses that depart for Hpa An. The journey to Hpa An is 7 hours and you can buy a ticket for as little as $5.
Most buses arrive at Sat Pyit Kwin Bus Terminal located 4 kilometers from the centre of Hpa An.
Bagan to Hpa An via Yangon by Flight + Bus
The fastest way to reach Hpa An is by taking the 1 hour and 20-minute flight from Bagan Airport to Yangon Airport and then boarding a 7-hour bus ride from Yangon to Hpa An.
However, flying from Bagan to Yangon is a lot more expensive and that’s why many travellers decide to travel the entire journey by bus. Below we will explain how you can travel this route in 2 steps by flight and bus.
Step 1: Bagan to Yangon by Flight
From New Bagan, take a taxi to Bagan Nyaung-U Airport for around $5. Travel time is about 20 minutes.
The Bagan to Yangon route is served by a handful of airline companies including Golden Myanmar Airlines, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Myanmar Airways International, Air KBZ, Myanmar National Airlines, and Hahn Air.
These airlines operate up to 10 flights daily and one-way ticket starts at $85.
Step 2: Yangon to Hpa An by Bus
From Yangon International Airport, you will have to make your way to Aung Mingalar Highway Bus Station to take the bus to Hpa An.
The distance from the airport to the bus station is 8 kilometers and a taxi ride should cost you only $2.
the journey takes about 7 hours and you can buy a bus ticket for as low as $5.
Our favourite places to stay in Hpa An
Hotel Champion
Hotel Champion is located in central Hpa-an and features a shared lounge. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. The hotel offers a continental or buffet breakfast.
- Great location
- Helpful concierge
- Family-friendly
- Breakfast included
Private rooms start at $19 per night
Hpa An Boutique Inn
Hpa An Boutique Inn offers rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms. The property provides free private parking and free WiFi. A continental breakfast is available each morning. The staff are known to be very friendly and welcoming.
- Amazing staff
- Very good breakfast included
- Clean and comfortable rooms
- Good location
Private rooms start at $28 per night
Hotel Perfect Hpa-An
Hotel Perfect Hpa-An is centrally located near amenities and sights. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. There is an on-site restaurant, 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. A buffet breakfast is included with your stay.
- Breakfast included
- Close to attractions
- Large and comfortable rooms
- Amazing staff
Private rooms start at $42 per night
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About the author(s)
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
