
Nandamannya Temple
Bagan's largest temple, an unfinished 12th-century marvel of massive brickwork and mysterious history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Nandamannya Temple
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bagan's largest temple, an unfinished 12th-century marvel of massive brickwork and mysterious history.
"The architecture is stunning! Every corner had something sacred and beautiful to admire."

Rent an E-bike 🛵
Explore Bagan's temples with ease and flexibility. Many places offer rentals for a full day.
Visit at Sunrise/Sunset 🌅
Experience the magical light over the temples. Some vantage points offer great photo opportunities.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Massive Brick Structure
Exterior
Marvel at the sheer scale of Bagan's largest temple, an unfinished masterpiece of ancient architecture.

Mysterious History
Interior
Explore dimly lit corridors and ponder the temple's enigmatic past and unfinished construction.

Panoramic Views
Rear vantage points
Climb to designated spots for breathtaking views of the surrounding Bagan plains, especially at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Dhammayangyi
Getting Around Bagan
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent an E-bike 🛵
Explore Bagan's temples with ease and flexibility. Many places offer rentals for a full day.
Visit at Sunrise/Sunset 🌅
Experience the magical light over the temples. Some vantage points offer great photo opportunities.
Respectful Attire 👗
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting religious sites like Dhammayangyi Temple.
Stay Hydrated 💧
Bagan can be hot and dry. Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring the temple grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent an E-bike 🛵
Explore Bagan's temples with ease and flexibility. Many places offer rentals for a full day.
Visit at Sunrise/Sunset 🌅
Experience the magical light over the temples. Some vantage points offer great photo opportunities.
Respectful Attire 👗
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting religious sites like Dhammayangyi Temple.
Stay Hydrated 💧
Bagan can be hot and dry. Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring the temple grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dhammayangyi Temple is lauded as Bagan's largest and most imposing temple, captivating visitors with its massive brick structure and mysterious, unfinished history. Many appreciate its unique atmosphere, especially the dimly lit corridors, and the panoramic views available from its vantage points. While some find the interior somewhat dark, its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a highly recommended visit.
"Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest temple in Bagan, known for its massive brick structure and mysterious history. Though unfinished, its impressive size and well-preserved exterior make it a fascinating site to explore. Inside, the corridors are narrow and dimly lit, adding to its unique atmosphere. Despite some damage, the temple remains one of the most striking landmarks in Bagan and is definitely worth a visit."
Tibor
""Peaceful and uplifting. The calm breeze and quiet surroundings made it perfect for reflection."
2. "The architecture is stunning! Every corner had something sacred and beautiful to admire.""
Psh
"Among all the temples in Bagan, this is the one I love the most. The building's blocks are thick, making it a fascinating place to visit.
Historically, the king during that time wasn't viewed favorably. He is said to have killed his father and elder brother to ascend the throne."
Kyaw Htet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dhammayangyi Temple is located in the southern part of Bagan. The most popular way to get around is by renting an e-bike, which offers flexibility and allows you to easily navigate between temples. Taxis are also available, but e-bikes are often preferred for their convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Public transportation directly to Dhammayangyi Temple is limited. Renting an e-bike or hiring a private car/taxi are the most common and practical options for reaching the temple and exploring the wider Bagan archaeological zone.
While specific bike taxi apps might not be as prevalent as in larger cities, you can often arrange for bike taxis or e-bike rentals through your hotel or local tour operators. Negotiate prices beforehand.
The most common ways to travel between Mandalay and Bagan are by bus or by boat. Buses are generally faster and more frequent, with companies like Zone Express Travel being a recommended option. The boat journey is more scenic but takes longer.
Yes, there are usually designated areas for parking e-bikes and other vehicles near the entrance of Dhammayangyi Temple. It's generally not an issue to find a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to purchase an archaeological zone pass to enter Dhammayangyi Temple and other historical sites within Bagan. This pass is typically valid for several days.
The price of the Bagan archaeological zone pass can vary, so it's best to check the latest rates upon arrival. It's usually a one-time fee for a set number of days.
Dhammayangyi Temple is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the exact hours with local authorities or your accommodation.
While you can purchase the archaeological zone pass upon arrival at designated entry points, booking in advance isn't typically necessary for the pass itself. Some tours or transport might be bookable ahead.
Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Some areas within the temple might have restricted access due to ongoing preservation efforts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Dhammayangyi Temple, you'll find massive brick structures, dimly lit corridors, and remnants of its original design. While unfinished, the scale and atmosphere are impressive.
Yes, Dhammayangyi Temple offers excellent photography opportunities, especially from the exterior and designated vantage points for panoramic views. The interior's dim lighting can also create dramatic shots.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully explore Dhammayangyi Temple, including time to appreciate its architecture and history, and to capture photos.
You can often hire local guides at the entrance of major temples in Bagan, including Dhammayangyi. They can provide historical context and insights into the temple's construction and legends.
Dhammayangyi Temple is significant for being the largest temple in Bagan, built in the 12th century. Its massive, well-preserved brick structure and unfinished state make it a unique historical monument.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining options directly at Dhammayangyi Temple, you'll find local eateries and food stalls scattered throughout the Bagan archaeological zone, especially near popular tourist areas.
Expect traditional Burmese cuisine, featuring rice and curries, noodle dishes, and fresh salads. Many restaurants cater to tourists, offering a range of local and some international options.
Yes, it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the temple and its surroundings.
Many hotels and guesthouses in Bagan have their own restaurants. You can also find popular local eateries in the main towns like Old Bagan and New Bagan. Ask locals for recommendations.
Yes, vegetarian options are generally available in Burmese cuisine, often featuring vegetable curries and stir-fries. Be sure to specify your dietary needs when ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the temple, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offers stunning photographic opportunities. Vantage points at the rear of the temple provide panoramic views of the Bagan plains.
Yes, you can take photos inside Dhammayangyi Temple, but be mindful of the dim lighting. The unique atmosphere and architectural details can make for dramatic and evocative shots.
Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for photography due to the soft, golden light and fewer crowds. This lighting enhances the temple's textures and colors.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological zones in Myanmar, including Bagan, to preserve the sites and for safety reasons. It's best to check current regulations before flying a drone.
For interior shots, use a wider aperture and higher ISO to capture detail in low light. For exteriors, a tripod can be useful for long exposures during sunrise/sunset. Consider a wide-angle lens for the grand scale.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities directly at the temple are limited. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort. The open spaces around the temple can also provide room for kids to move around.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Seek out the vantage points at the rear of the temple for sweeping panoramic views of the Bagan plains, which are particularly stunning at dusk. Inside, the dimly lit corridors and imposing structures create a dramatic and moody ambiance, perfect for capturing unique perspectives. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and be prepared for low-light conditions.
🏛️ History Buffs
Learn about the legends surrounding King Narathu and the temple's construction, which add a layer of intrigue to the visit. The well-preserved brickwork provides insights into ancient construction techniques. Exploring the temple allows for a tangible connection to the past, making it a deeply rewarding experience for those interested in historical sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Construction of Dhammayangyi
Unlike many other Bagan temples, Dhammayangyi is characterized by its immense size and a unique, almost fortress-like exterior. The interior features a labyrinth of narrow, dimly lit corridors that contribute to its mysterious aura. While much of the inner sanctum is bricked up, the preserved outer walls and the sheer volume of the structure offer a compelling glimpse into the past.
Travelers often remark on the temple's imposing nature and the sense of history that permeates its grounds. The well-preserved exterior and the intriguing story behind its unfinished construction make it a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of the Bagan kingdom.
Exploring Bagan's Temples: E-bikes and Beyond
Many travelers recommend securing an e-bike from your hotel or a local rental shop. It's wise to negotiate the daily rate and ensure the battery is fully charged for a full day of exploration. E-bikes allow you to easily hop between iconic sites like Dhammayangyi Temple, Ananda Temple, and Shwesandaw Pagoda, as well as stumble upon lesser-known, tranquil stupas.
While e-bikes are popular, other options include horse-drawn carriages for a more traditional experience, or hiring a private car with a driver for comfort, especially during hotter months. For those seeking a more active adventure, traditional bicycles are also available, though they require more stamina. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the journey through Bagan's ancient wonders is an unforgettable experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit