Thatbyinnyu Temple
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Thatbyinnyu Temple

4.5
·1k reviews·Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

The tallest temple in Bagan, a 12th-century architectural marvel offering serene interiors and panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Sunrise magic & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Thatbyinnyu Temple

Thatbyinnyu Temple

Best Time

Early morning

Sunrise magic & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The tallest temple in Bagan, a 12th-century architectural marvel offering serene interiors and panoramic views.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"The tallest temple in Bagan, standing out with its impressive height and grand structure."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 Park & Walk

Vehicles aren't allowed inside; park nearby and enjoy a short walk to the pagoda.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Architecture

Towering Architecture

Main Structure

The tallest temple in Bagan, standing at 60 meters, with ornate details and receding terraces.

Serene Interior

Serene Interior

Temple Interior

A cool and serene atmosphere, ideal for quiet contemplation and peaceful meditation.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Upper Levels (if accessible)

Offers a unique perspective of the Bagan plains, especially beautiful at dusk.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and peak tourist hours. Many temples look stunning at sunrise and sunset, offering a more peaceful experience. TikTok

Respectful Attire is Key

As a sacred Buddhist site, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the vast temple complex. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Sunrise magic & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bagan temple with underground tunnels 🇲🇲 #kopetemyanmar #tiktokmyanmar #myanmar #thankyoumyanmar
@kopetemyanmar
192.6K likes • 2.5M views

🚶 Park & Walk

Vehicles aren't allowed inside; park nearby and enjoy a short walk to the pagoda. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must! Reddit

One day with you 🖤 #bagan #foryou #baganlover
@baganlover3
118.1K likes • 786.9K views
ミャンマー Bagan & Yangon, Myanmar Jan. 2019(43) ⁡ タビィニュ寺院 That-byin-nyu Temple ⁡ 12世紀に創建された寺院、高さが60mもあるそうです。近くには日本人戦没者慰霊碑もあります。 Built in the 12th century and has 60 meters high. And a cenotaph for the Japanese war dead is near here. ⁡ #myanmartravel #myanmartrip #ミャンマー #myanmar #海外旅行記 #ニャウンウー #nyaungu #nyaungoo #jan_jan_888myanmar #templeinmyanmar #myanmartemple #バガン #bagan #タビィニュ寺院 #thatbyinnyutemple...
jan_jan_888overseas
103 likes • 0 views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Shops nearby sell water, but it's wise to carry your own, especially in the heat. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scale

The sheer height is impressive; try to capture its grandeur from different angles. TikTok

Con 61 metros de altura el templo Thatbyinnyu es el edificio más alto construido en Bagan. Es de los pocos templos que no tienen la estatua de Buda en la planta baja, sino en la superior. #buda #buddha #myanmar #birmania #bagan #thatbyinnyu #temple #temple #trip #travel
betokiko
41 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶 Park & Walk

Vehicles aren't allowed inside; park nearby and enjoy a short walk to the pagoda. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Shops nearby sell water, but it's wise to carry your own, especially in the heat. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scale

The sheer height is impressive; try to capture its grandeur from different angles. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Thatbyinnyu Temple is lauded for its impressive height and grand architectural presence, making it a significant landmark in Bagan. Visitors appreciate its serene interior, ideal for quiet contemplation, and the surrounding shops offering conveniences. Some reviews note that the temple could benefit from renovation, and the sheer number of similar temples in Bagan might lead to a feeling of repetition for some.

"You’ll need to park your vehicle outside and walk towards the pagoda, as vehicles aren’t allowed inside the premises. It’s a peaceful place, ideal for a visit and quiet meditation. The interior is cool and serene, providing a calm and refreshing atmosphere."

Hnin Pwint Thaw Da

"That Bin Nyu Temple is the tallest temple in Bagan, standing out with its impressive height and grand structure. While the interior is relatively simple, the temple’s scale and design make it a fascinating site to explore. It’s a great landmark to admire while visiting Bagan’s many temples."

Tibor

"One of the big pagodas at Bagan. Superb architecture, and layout. You have to park or get dropped off at the gate, about 100 m walk then to the pagoda. Some shops around for water and souvenirs, and ice cream. The pagoda needs a bit of renovation - the guide told us they paint it after monsoon, so October onward it would look great. We went in July, when it looked possibly the most run-down."

Naman Thakar

What People Like

Impressive height and scale
Serene interior for meditation
Iconic Bagan landmark

What People Dislike

Needs renovation
Can feel repetitive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Thatbyinnyu Temple is located within the Bagan archaeological zone. You can reach it by e-bike, bicycle, or horse cart from Nyaung U or Old Bagan. Many visitors hire a driver for the day to explore multiple temples, including Thatbyinnyu. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Thatbyinnyu is one of the most prominent and tallest temples in Bagan, making it relatively easy to locate. It's often marked on maps and easily recognizable by its height. Instagram

No, vehicles are not allowed directly inside the temple premises. You'll need to park your vehicle at the designated area and walk the remaining distance. Reddit

Many travelers opt for an e-bike or bicycle to freely explore the vast Bagan plains and visit multiple temples at their own pace. Horse carts offer a more traditional experience. TikTokInstagram

Bagan is accessible by bus and airplane from major cities like Yangon and Mandalay. From the airport or bus station, you'll need local transport to reach the temple sites. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, you will need to purchase an archaeological zone pass to enter Bagan and visit its temples, including Thatbyinnyu. This pass is typically valid for several days. Reddit

Temples in Bagan are generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to confirm specific hours upon arrival, but early morning and late afternoon are popular for visits. TikTok

The entrance fee is for the entire Bagan archaeological zone, not for individual temples. Once you have your pass, you can visit most temples freely. Reddit

Access to the upper levels for panoramic views may be restricted or require special permission, as climbing on many ancient structures is no longer permitted for preservation reasons. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter when purchasing your Bagan archaeological zone pass. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visiting during sunrise or sunset offers magical light and fewer crowds, making for a more serene experience. Midday can be very hot and busy. TikTokReddit

Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as it's a sacred Buddhist site. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Reddit

It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and at popular times like sunrise. Visiting early or late can help avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

Restrooms are generally available near the entrance or parking areas. Shops selling water, snacks, and souvenirs are also located nearby. Reddit

Yes, the interior is described as cool, serene, and peaceful, making it an ideal spot for quiet meditation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the temple's immense scale from a distance, its intricate architectural details, and the surrounding plains, especially during sunrise or sunset. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots. Some interior areas might have specific signage. TikTok

The 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in archaeological zones to preserve the sites and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the temple's grandeur, while a telephoto lens can be good for details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions at sunrise/sunset. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Thatbyinnyu Temple offers a sense of wonder for families with its immense size. The open spaces around the temple are great for kids to explore, and the nearby shops offer refreshments like ice cream. Reddit Remember to dress everyone in comfortable, modest clothing and ensure everyone has sturdy shoes for walking. The journey between temples can be an adventure in itself, especially if using e-bikes or horse carts, which kids often find exciting. TikTok

🚶 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Thatbyinnyu Temple provides a peaceful sanctuary for reflection. Its serene interior is perfect for quiet meditation, offering a moment of calm amidst the exploration of Bagan. Reddit Renting an e-bike is a popular and flexible way for solo visitors to navigate the vast temple complex at their own pace, allowing for spontaneous stops and discoveries. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Thatbyinnyu Temple is a prime subject for photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Its towering structure offers dramatic silhouettes against the sky. TikTok Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture its scale and a telephoto lens for architectural details. Be mindful of respectful photography practices, especially when worshippers are present. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of Thatbyinnyu

Thatbyinnyu Temple, meaning 'Omniscience,' is a testament to 12th-century Bagan architecture, standing as the tallest structure in the plains at approximately 60 meters (200 feet). Its design features receding terraces, a common characteristic of Bagan temples, but its sheer height and imposing presence set it apart. The temple's layout is unique, with the main Buddha image located on the upper level rather than the ground floor, a departure from many other temples. Instagram+1

Built during the reign of King Alaungsithu, Thatbyinnyu was intended not only for worship but also as a place for monks to study and meditate. The temple's construction showcases sophisticated engineering for its time, allowing it to dominate the skyline. While some parts may show signs of age and require renovation, its architectural significance remains undeniable, making it a key landmark for understanding Bagan's historical religious structures. InstagramReddit

Visitors often note the temple's grand scale and impressive layout. Although the interior might appear simpler compared to some other ornate temples, the overall experience of standing within or gazing upon this colossal structure is awe-inspiring. It's a crucial site for anyone interested in the history and architectural evolution of the Bagan Kingdom. Reddit

Experiencing Bagan's Temples: Beyond the Obvious

While Thatbyinnyu Temple is a must-see due to its height and historical importance, some visitors find many Bagan temples can appear similar after a while. The true magic of Bagan often lies in the overall atmosphere and the journey between temples. Renting an e-bike or bicycle allows for spontaneous exploration and discovering less-visited pagodas, offering a more personal connection to the ancient landscape. TikTokReddit

Many travelers highlight the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the temple-studded plains as a quintessential Bagan experience. While climbing on temples is now restricted, finding designated viewpoints or even enjoying the view from a hot air balloon (though costly) provides unforgettable panoramas. The kindness of the local people and the rich culture also contribute significantly to the overall travel experience. TikTokInstagram

To truly appreciate Bagan, it's recommended to research a few key temples like Thatbyinnyu and Ananda, but also allow time for serendipitous discoveries. Engaging with local guides can offer deeper insights into the history and significance of each site, enriching your understanding beyond just the visual spectacle. Reddit

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