Nat Hlaung Kyaung
The only 11th-century Hindu temple in Old Bagan, dedicated to Vishnu, offering a unique glimpse into the region's diverse religious past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Nat Hlaung Kyaung
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The only 11th-century Hindu temple in Old Bagan, dedicated to Vishnu, offering a unique glimpse into the region's diverse religious past.
"A rare surviving Hindu temple in Bagan, offering a unique historical perspective despite its name."
🎯 Understand the Name
It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vishnu Shrine
Sanctum
The main shrine features Vishnu, though original idols have been replaced over time due to damage and theft.
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Hindu Deities Niches
Around the sanctum
Discover niches that once held various Hindu gods, showcasing the temple's religious heritage.
Architectural Remnants
Explore the remaining structure of this 11th-century temple, a rare surviving example of Hindu architecture in Bagan.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beyond the Name: It's a Hindu Temple!
Preservation & Access
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Understand the Name
It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bagan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Understand the Name
It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bagan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Nat Hlaung Kyaung as the sole Hindu temple in Bagan, offering a unique historical perspective. While its name is misleading, its significance as an 11th-century structure dedicated to Vishnu is recognized. Some disappointment exists regarding the replacement of original idols due to historical damage.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nat Hlaung Kyaung is located in Old Bagan. You can reach it by e-bike, horse cart, or taxi from your accommodation. Many visitors combine it with visits to nearby temples.
Public transport within Bagan is limited. E-bikes are the most popular and convenient way to explore the temples, including Nat Hlaung Kyaung.
Renting an e-bike offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, you can hire a horse cart for a more traditional experience, or a taxi for comfort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Bagan archaeological zone ticket is required to enter the area where Nat Hlaung Kyaung is located. Purchase this at the official ticket counters.
The temple is generally open from sunrise to sunset, aligning with the typical visiting hours for Bagan's archaeological sites.
No, there isn't a separate fee for Nat Hlaung Kyaung itself. Your Bagan archaeological zone ticket covers entry to all sites within the zone.
While generally accessible during daylight hours, it's best to visit during cooler parts of the day to avoid the midday heat.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash inside the main shrine areas and be mindful of other visitors.
The niches with deity images and the exterior architecture offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding smaller temples also make for interesting shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Bagan's archaeological zones to preserve the sites and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
It's the only surviving Hindu temple from the Bagan period, dating back to the 11th century, and is dedicated to Vishnu.
The name 'Nat Hlaung Kyaung' translates to 'Nat-supporting Monastery,' which is a historical misnomer. It has always been a Hindu temple.
Yes, the temple has suffered from abandonment, earthquakes, and pillaging, leading to the loss of original idols and some structural damage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting an e-bike for easier navigation between sites, which can be an adventure for older kids. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be limited. The relatively smaller size of Nat Hlaung Kyaung compared to some of the larger pagodas might also be more manageable for younger children's attention spans.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Researching the temple's history of damage and restoration beforehand can enhance your appreciation of its survival. Consider hiring a local guide who can offer deeper historical context and point out significant details you might otherwise miss. The temple's unique identity, despite its misleading name, is a fascinating topic for historical exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Identity of Nat Hlaung Kyaung
The temple's history is marked by resilience. It has endured centuries of earthquakes, abandonment, and even pillaging, which have unfortunately led to the loss of many original artifacts, including the primary idol of Vishnu. The stucco images seen today are often replacements, a poignant reminder of the temple's long and sometimes turbulent past.
+2Visiting Nat Hlaung Kyaung offers a glimpse into a less-discussed facet of Bagan's history. It's an opportunity to appreciate the architectural style and religious practices of the Hindu community that once thrived here, providing a richer, more nuanced understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Navigating Bagan's Ancient Sites
For a more traditional experience, horse carts are also available. While slower, they provide a charming way to see the temples and are a good option if you prefer not to navigate yourself. Negotiate the price and itinerary beforehand. Taxis are another option for those seeking comfort, especially during the hotter parts of the day, but they offer less flexibility for spontaneous stops.
When planning your route, consider grouping nearby temples together to maximize your time. Nat Hlaung Kyaung is often visited in conjunction with other significant structures in Old Bagan. Remember to purchase your Bagan archaeological zone ticket at one of the official entry points, as it's required for access to most sites.
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