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How to get from Bagan to Yangon
A far cry from the misty temple-studded landscape of Bagan is Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar. Yangon is a culturally rich city with numerous historical and religious sites to visit.
The stunning Shwedagon Pagoda is a must-see while visiting this city, as well as the countless other Pagoda’s and Temples scattered throughout. We also suggest taking a ride on the circular train to take in the sights surrounding Yangon.
To travel the 630 km from Bagan to Yangon you have 3 options; you can take a bus for 11 hours, board a train for a 17.5 hour trip, or fly in less than 1.5 hours. We recommend the overnight bus to catch up on some rest.
3 ways to get from Bagan to Yangon
Bagan to Yangon by Bus
Taking the bus is a good option if you are travelling on a budget. It is the cheapest option and it will save you a few dollars on accommodations if you choose to travel at night.
The price of a bus ticket varies slightly between each company and the type of bus you choose. A ticket for a standard bus ride starts at $11, while VIP buses cost between $14 – $16, but offer more comfortable seats and legroom.
There are both morning and evening departures to Yangon, all with a travel time of 10 hours. The first bus leaves at 08:30 and the final departure of the day leaves at 20:30.
We suggest booking a night bus to catch up some sleep and save a few dollars on accommodations for the night.
We recommend booking with a reputable bus company such as Khaing Mandalay, JJ Express, Bagan Min Thar, or Shwe Mandalar Express. These are known to provide a high level of service and have fairly good reviews from passengers.
Bus schedules from Bagan to Yangon
All buses depart from the Bagan Shwe Pyi Highway Bus Terminal located 10 kilometers outside of New Bagan. To get to the bus terminal from the city centre, you can take a taxi for around $6. Or better, book with one of the bus companies that provide free pick-up at your hotel to avoid the hassle of getting a taxi to the terminal.
All buses arrive at the Aung Mingalar Bus Station in Yangon which is approximately 15 kilometers from the city centre. From the bus station you can take the Local Bus Line 36 for $0.10 which will take you to the city centre. Alternatively, you can take a private taxi for about $7.
Bagan to Yangon by Train
Traveling by train is a good option if you have plenty of time and you want to experience an authentic Burmese experience. It will also give you an opportunity to interact with local people and take in the beautiful sights along the way.
At present, there is only 1 train travelling from Bagan to Yangon daily. The train departs at 16:00 and the journey should take about 17.5 hours.
Upper-class seats cost $19, while sleeping carriages cost $25. We recommend spending the few extra dollars and buying a ticket for a sleeping carriage for this 17-18 hour journey.
Train Schedule from Bagan to Yangon
| Train company | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myanmar Railways (train #62) *sleeper | 16:00-09:30 | 17h 30m | $19 $25* Check Train Tickets |
All trains depart from the Bagan Railway Station in Nyaung-U and arrive at the Yangon Central Railway Station located in Kun Chan Rd in downtown Yangon.
Bagan to Yangon by Flight
Traveling by plane from Bagan to Yangon is the fastest option at just 1 hour and 20 minutes.
To reach the Bagan Nyaung-U Airport (NYU), you can simply take a taxi from the town centre for $5 – $7.
Several airline companies serve the Bagan to Yangon route including Golden Myanmar Airlines, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Myanmar National Airlines, Myanmar Airways International, Air KBZ, and Hahn Air Systems.
One-way tickets to travel this route start at $93.
When you arrive at Yangon International Airport (RGN), you can catch a YBS airport shuttle bus that will take you to the city centre. These buses stop at 16 designated stops within the city and run 24/7. The fare is just $0.30 per passenger.
Another option to reach Yangon city centre is to take a private taxi, prices start around $10 depending on your destination.
Our favourite places to stay in Yangon
C & Y Hotel
Located centrally in Yangon, this hotel features great views of the city. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant, 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property has a tour desk, ticket service and currency exchange for guests.
- Great location
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Restaurant on-site
- Clean and comfortable rooms
Private rooms start at $19 per night
Grand Garden Hotel Yangon
The Grand Garden Hotel Yangon offers an on-site restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. This 3-star hotel features free WiFi and a garden. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service and currency exchange for guests.
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant and bar
- Friendly staff
- Fantastic location
Private rooms start at $25 per night
Merchant Art Hotel
Located centrally in Yangon, within walking distance of the Shwedagon Pagoda. This hotel offers an on-site restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden area. Enjoy the amazing rooftop views while having a drink. The rooms are modern, clean and comfortable.
- Fantastic location
- Restaurant and bar
- Modern designed rooms
- Great rooftop view
Private rooms start at $35 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.
