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How to get from Inle Lake to Bagan
There are 2 options to cross the 365 km distance from Inle Lake to Bagan: by bus (9 hours) or flight (40 minutes). Fares start from $11.
The bus is the cheapest option to get from Inle Lake to Bagan. A ticket costs only $11 for the 9-hour journey.
Travelling by flight from Inle Lake to Bagan takes only 40 minutes. However, it can be quite expensive with fares from $65.
2 ways to get from Inle Lake to Bagan
Inle Lake to Bagan by Bus
If you prefer a more affordable but slower option, there are several bus companies operating the Inle Lake to Bagan route. See the schedules below:
Bus schedules from Inle Lake to Bagan
A standard minivan ticket from Inle Lake to Bagan costs from $11, while higher class buses with soft reclining seats and air conditioning systems can go as high as $13. Travel times range from 8 to 10 hours.
OK Express (Standard Minivan)
- Departs from Famous Express located in the town of Nyaungshwe
- Hotel pick-up is available
- Arrives at OK Express Bus Stop located 12 kilometers from Old Bagan
OK Express provides a shared 16-seat air-conditioned minivan for its passengers for the Inle Lake to Bagan route. It provides amenities like water and a towel.
Bagan Min Thar Bus Service
- Departs from Bagan Min Thar Bus Station in Yone Gyi Street in the town of Nyaungshwe
- Arrives at Bagan Shwe Pyi Highway Bus Terminal located 10 kilometers from New Bagan
Bagan Min Thar provides a 29-seater VIP bus service for its passengers. They also offer free amenities like toothpaste, toothbrush, drinking water, and a blanket to all passengers.
Take note that all international tourists are required to pay $16 Bagan Zone Fee. The pass is valid for 3 days and can be bought from any of the many checkpoints leading into Bagan.
Inle Lake to Bagan by Flight
If you are looking for the fastest option, you can take a quick 40-minute flight from Heho Airport to Bagan Nyaung-U Airport.
To get to Heho Airport from Inle Lake, you can take a taxi from Nyaungshwe, located at the Northern end of Inle Lake, for $20.
Several airline companies operate at least 4 flights daily from Heho to Bagan. The first flight leaves at 08:40 and the last one leaves at 16:40. A one-way ticket starts at $65.
When you land at Bagan Nyaung-U Airport, it is a 20-minute ride going to New Bagan. A private taxi ride should set you back $5.
Our favourite places to stay in Bagan
Shwe Nadi Guest House
Ideally situated in central Bagan, Shwe Nadi Guest House is within walking distance to the Nyaung U Market and plenty of restaurants and shops. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property. The Guesthouse also offers e-bike rentals.
- Friendly and welcoming staff
- Excellent breakfast
- E-bikes rentals
- Fantastic location
Private rooms start at $16 per night
Ostello Bello Bagan
Ostello Bello Bagan is set in an ideal location, within walking distance of many restaurants, sights, and amenities. The on-site bar is great for having a cold drink and relaxing. The on-site restaurant is open early and serves both local and Western dishes. Snacks, coffee, tea, and water can also be found at the shared lounge throughout the day.
- Cozy and clean rooms
- Great food
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Convenient location
Private rooms start at $29 per night
Bagan Wynn Hotel
The Bagan Wynn Hotel is set in a quiet, peaceful location not too far from the sights. The hotel offers a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.
- Accommodating staff
- Restaurant and bar
- Peaceful location
- Spacious rooms
Private rooms start at $33 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.
