Inle Lake to Bagan
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What to expect when visiting Bagan
Bagan is one of the world’s richest archaeological sites and has become a primary draw for visitors to Myanmar. This ancient city boasts over 2,000 surviving temples — dating from as early as the 9th century and spread across more than 100 square kilometres.
Some of the most beautiful photos of Bagan were taken from a hot air balloon, hundreds of which often dot the city’s skies during sunrise. With its huge size, it’s not really practical to explore the city on foot. It’s best to go around by bicycle, motorbike, private car, or even by horse cart when in Bagan.
2 ways to get from Inle Lake to Bagan
There are two ways to travel the distance of 365 km (227 miles) from Inle Lake to Bagan: by bus (8h-10h) and flight (40 minutes). The journey takes between 40m - 10h and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from $11 for the bus.Where to stay in Bagan?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bagan at the bottom of this page.
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 8h-10h.
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.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Our favourite places to stay in Bagan
Ostello Bello Bagan - Budget Friendly
Ostello Bello Bagan is set in an ideal location, within walking distance of many restaurants, sights, and amenities. The onsite bar is great for having a cold drink, relaxing and meeting other travellers.
The hostel is super modern, clean and friendly. They even have a pool that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. There are both bunk beds and private rooms available.
- Modern and clean rooms
- Delicious free breakfast
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
Private rooms start at $20 per night.
A Little Bit of Bagan Hotel - Budget Friendly
A Little Bit of Bagan Hotel is a great find. The staff are incredibly friendly and will help you with booking buses, renting bikes, exchanging money and anything else you could want.
The rooms are simple but comfortable. And the hotel itself is nicely designed and homely. One of the best parts about this place has to be the free Asian breakfast. The portions are huge and it’s delicious!
- Amazing staff
- Comfortable and cosy rooms
- Good location
- Free tasty breakfast
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Bagan Wynn Hotel - Mid Range
The Bagan Wynn Hotel is not too far from the sights and close to the airport. This hotel offers a beautiful swimming pool and grounds that are filled with plants.
The rooms are cosy, comfortable and come with a balcony for you to relax on. The staff are very friendly and the onsite restaurant serving Asian and European food is great. Plus, you get a complimentary breakfast every morning.
- Friendly staff
- Onsite restaurant and bar
- Great location
- Delicious free breakfast
Private rooms start at $48 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inle Lake to Bagan
What is the distance from Inle Lake to Bagan?
The distance from Inle Lake to Bagan is 365 km (227 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Inle Lake to Bagan?
The fastest way to get from Inle Lake to Bagan is by flight and takes 40 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Inle Lake to Bagan?
The cheapest way to get from Inle Lake to Bagan is by bus with ticket costs starting from $11.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Inle Lake to Bagan. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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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.
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