Shwe Leik Too Temple
A partially ruined temple offering a tranquil escape and breathtaking sunrise views over Bagan's ancient plains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For the iconic sunrise view
Shwe Leik Too Temple
Best Time
For the iconic sunrise view
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A partially ruined temple offering a tranquil escape and breathtaking sunrise views over Bagan's ancient plains.
"It's worth a stop, especially since it doesn't get as crowded as some of the other temples."
🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise
Climb to the top before dawn for a magical sunrise and hot air balloon spectacle.
🚲 Explore by Bicycle
Rent a bike to easily reach Shwe Leik Too and discover other temples at your own pace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Over Bagan
Temple summit
Witness the magical Bagan sunrise with hot air balloons dotting the sky. A truly unforgettable experience.
Panoramic Pagoda Views
Temple summit
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the ancient Bagan plains dotted with countless pagodas.
Tranquil Temple Ambiance
Temple grounds
Experience the peaceful atmosphere of this partially ruined temple, offering a serene escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunrise Spectacle
Temple Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise
Climb to the top before dawn for a magical sunrise and hot air balloon spectacle.
🚲 Explore by Bicycle
Rent a bike to easily reach Shwe Leik Too and discover other temples at your own pace.
🐴 Horse-Cart Charm
Enjoy a scenic horse-cart ride for a unique perspective of the temple and surroundings.
👣 Go Barefoot
Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise
Climb to the top before dawn for a magical sunrise and hot air balloon spectacle.
🚲 Explore by Bicycle
Rent a bike to easily reach Shwe Leik Too and discover other temples at your own pace.
🐴 Horse-Cart Charm
Enjoy a scenic horse-cart ride for a unique perspective of the temple and surroundings.
👣 Go Barefoot
Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architectural details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shwe Leik Too Temple is appreciated for its unique charm, stemming from its partially ruined state, which adds to the experience. It's praised for being easily accessible and less crowded than other major temples, offering a tranquil atmosphere. The temple is a popular spot for sunrise views, with many recommending it as a prime location to witness the spectacle of hot air balloons.
"Pretty cool temple, certainly in a state of partial ruin and neglect, which kind of adds to the experience a bit. Close to the road and easy to get to, it's worth a stop, especially since it doesn't get as crowded as some of the other temples"
Gunnar Caya
"We invite you to come and relax at our Anyar House. We have Health Care & Beauty Treatment SPA, Anyar Restaurant and Gift & Souvenir Shop. Come and Come!"
Min Paing Shin {Pyae Phyo Aung}
"Tranquil place. Beautiful."
Eugen Safin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shwe Leik Too Temple is conveniently located close to the road, making it easy to access. Many visitors rent bicycles to explore Bagan, and this temple is a popular stop on such routes. Horse-cart rides are also a charming way to reach the temple. 
Yes, it's situated close to the main road, so it's generally straightforward to locate within the Bagan archaeological zone.
Bicycles are a very popular and eco-friendly option for exploring Bagan's temples. E-bikes are also available. Horse-carts offer a more traditional experience.
While specific fees for individual temples can vary, a general Bagan archaeological zone entrance ticket is usually required for most visitors. It's best to check current regulations upon arrival.
Private car hire is available, and drivers can take you to the temple. Parking is usually available nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
To catch the sunrise, you'll need to arrive before dawn. The temple is generally accessible during daylight hours, but specific timings for climbing to the top for sunrise viewing should be confirmed locally.
A Bagan archaeological zone pass is typically required for entry into the main temple areas. This pass allows access to multiple sites within the zone.
Tickets for the Bagan archaeological zone are usually purchased upon arrival at designated ticket counters. Advance booking is generally not necessary.
As with most religious sites, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering.
For the sunrise experience, plan to be there for a few hours. If visiting during the day, 1-2 hours should be sufficient to explore and enjoy the views.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise is a prime time for photography, offering dramatic light and the chance to capture hot air balloons. +1 Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour light for stunning shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological zones in Myanmar, including Bagan, to preserve the sites and for safety reasons. It's advisable to check current regulations before flying a drone.
You can capture panoramic views of the Bagan plains, intricate temple architecture, and the magical sunrise with hot air balloons.
The summit of the temple offers the most iconic viewpoints for sunrise and panoramic shots. The surrounding grounds also provide interesting photographic opportunities.
While sunrise can be crowded, visiting during the day or late afternoon might offer fewer people, allowing for more unobstructed shots. The temple's partially ruined state also adds unique photographic elements.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Shwe Leik Too is known for its partially ruined state, which adds a unique, atmospheric charm. It's also a popular spot for sunrise viewing, offering spectacular views of hot air balloons.
The climb is generally manageable, but the steps can be steep and uneven due to the temple's age and partial ruin. Exercise caution, especially in the dark before sunrise.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended out of respect for the religious site. Comfortable shoes are essential for climbing.
There are often small shops and restaurants near major temples in Bagan, including souvenir shops. Restroom facilities might be basic.
You may encounter local vendors or guides. Engaging respectfully is part of the cultural experience. Some reviews mention nearby amenities like a SPA and restaurant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Renting bicycles or taking a horse-cart ride to the temple can also be a fun family activity, providing a unique way to explore the Bagan plains. +1It's advisable to visit during the cooler parts of the day, perhaps in the late afternoon, to avoid the midday heat. Ensure children are dressed modestly and comfortably for climbing and exploring. The partially ruined aspect of the temple might spark curiosity and imagination about ancient times. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks.
🚶 Budget Travelers
The temple itself, being partially ruined, often doesn't have separate entrance fees beyond the general Bagan archaeological zone pass, making it a cost-effective visit. Packing your own snacks and water can also help keep daily expenses down. While there are shops and restaurants nearby, bringing your own provisions is a good strategy. The experience of witnessing the sunrise, even with a crowd, is a priceless memory that doesn't require additional spending beyond the initial entry ticket.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The temple's partially ruined state provides unique textures and dramatic lighting, perfect for capturing atmospheric shots. Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for soft, warm light that enhances the ancient architecture. The climb to the summit offers panoramic vistas that are ideal for landscape photography.
Remember to be respectful of other visitors, especially during sunrise, and to check any local regulations regarding photography equipment.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Bagan Sunrise
The reward is a breathtaking spectacle of the sun rising over the vast plains, illuminating thousands of ancient pagodas. A particularly magical element is the sight of numerous hot air balloons ascending into the sky as the dawn breaks. To make the most of this experience, it's recommended to arrive well before sunrise to secure a good vantage point. The climb itself can be a bit challenging, especially in low light, so wearing appropriate footwear and being mindful of your steps is important.
The atmosphere is often one of shared anticipation and awe among fellow travelers. While the sunrise is a major draw, remember that the early morning can be quite chilly, so dressing in layers is advisable. The visual impact of the sunrise, combined with the silhouette of the pagodas and the rising balloons, creates a truly unforgettable memory for those who witness it.
Exploring Bagan's Temples by Bicycle
The relatively flat terrain of Bagan makes cycling a pleasant activity, and it's an environmentally friendly way to travel. Many visitors find that cycling allows them to truly immerse themselves in the landscape and the historical atmosphere. Shwe Leik Too Temple is easily accessible by bicycle, fitting seamlessly into a day of temple hopping. Beyond cycling, other charming modes of transport include horse-carts, which offer a more leisurely and traditional way to see the sights.
These options provide different perspectives and experiences, catering to various preferences. Whether you choose to pedal your way through the plains or enjoy a gentle ride, these methods of transport enhance the overall Bagan adventure. When cycling, it's important to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be intense. Many travelers enjoy combining cycling with visits to various temples, stopping to admire the architecture, learn about the history, and capture stunning photographs. The freedom to stop and explore whenever something catches your eye is a significant advantage of these personal transport methods.
The Charm of Partially Ruined Temples
This less-restored nature often means that Shwe Leik Too is less crowded than some of the more prominent and fully intact temples in Bagan. This tranquility allows for a more personal and reflective visit, where you can truly soak in the surroundings without the hustle and bustle of large tour groups.
For photographers and history enthusiasts, the textures, shadows, and the interplay of light and decay in a partially ruined temple like Shwe Leik Too offer exceptional visual opportunities. It provides a different kind of beauty, one that speaks to the passage of time and the enduring spirit of ancient civilizations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit