"The word "authentic" is used way too much in the travel industry, but Three Treasures really deserves to be associated with this word. My experience with this organization has been an incredible one and I would highly recommend it (to the extend that I even signed up on TripAdvisor to write this review!)."
Bagan Monastery Meditation Experience
AN INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE
Bagan Meditation Tour
Our Bagan meditation experience reveals the mystical history and spirit of Bagan with our introduction to Buddhist philosophy and meditation. This exclusive activity is possible either in our ancient pagoda or village monastery.Your Bagan meditation tour includes an overview of the basics of Buddhist thought and practice, as well as how these have shaped the history, culture, and sites of Bagan. You will have the opportunity to freely ask questions, learning about monastic daily life and community rituals.
What to Expect
A transformational experience including sunrise or sunset at an ancient pagoda, with an introduction to Buddhist philosophy, culture, and spiritual practice. You will learn about the role of the monastery in Myanmar village life, as well as sessions of guided sitting and walking meditations by candlelight. We will discuss and practice, simple breath and concentration exercises to calm the mind and body as well as improve personal well-being and productivity.
This Bagan meditation experience is suitable for all ages and cultural backgrounds and does not require any prior knowledge of meditation or Buddhism. This activity can also be included as part of a longer custom Bagan itinerary.
Monastery Meditation Tour Highlights
- balloon viewing at sunrise from less-crowded location
- al fresco light breakfast with local pastries, fruit, and fresh coffee/tea
- market visit
- private meditation with monks in Bagan monastery
- monastery donation and shrine offering included in tour price
"Ian promised me an off the beaten track experience- and this is exactly what I've got. During the whole two days we saw maximum 10 other tourists. Instead of the touristy places we visited incredible landscapes in the middle of nowhere, hidden pagodas, took a boat trip to a lost beach, watched the sunset on our own, got some new photography skills and had the chance to meet local people respectfully (not this zoo like watching of people in an emerging country). Plus- the food was gorgeous!"
Experience Bagan with Insiders
For this activity, we work together with a local monastery located outside Bagan. The monastery is situated on a clifftop overlooking the Irrawaddy river. To our knowledge, this is the only monastery in the Bagan area accepting foreigners for meditation practice, and a portion of the activity fees goes directly to support the construction of a new teaching hall at the site.
Sample Itinerary
05:30: Pickup from your hotel by taxi or ebike
06:00-07:30: Sunrise balloon viewing from secluded pagoda within the Bagan monument zone.
07:30-08:30: After sunrise, time for a fresh breakfast served outdoors near our “secret pagoda” and gardens among the ancient pagodas. You are welcomed to a shady spot with temple views for fresh-pressed Myanmar coffee and tea after an early start. Enjoy a colorful and healthy breakfast of local pastries and fresh fruit. Local farmers pass by as we discuss our plans for the day.
08:30-09:30: Visit to Nyaung U market for monastery donation (flowers, incense, small gifts for monks).
10:00-12:00: Introduction to Buddhism and meditation at our host monastery. The location is amazing, with the active monastery nestled within a complex of ancient temples and ruins. Your tour fees contribute to the construction of a new community teaching hall at the monastery.
12:00-12:30: Return to your hotel OR continue your tour for the full day, relaxing at the monastery or exploring remote villages. Return to Old Bagan by private cruise after an enchanting sunset
More Bagan Tours
Bagan Classics Temples Tour
Only have one day in Bagan? Our customizable Bagan temples tour includes the best of Bagan in a single day. Explore the most iconic and off-the-beaten-path temples in Bagan with experienced local guides. Discover Bagan with locals!
Bagan Discovery Ebike Tour
Enjoy freedom and spontaneity on this guided Bagan ebike tour of selected sites and villages within the Bagan monument zone. Includes sunrise, open-air breakfast, village walking tour, and ebike tour of the Bagan temples.
Bagan Family Tour with Sand-Painting Class
This engaging Bagan family tour is tailored especially for multi-generational groups. Immersive activities that emphasize learning and exploration allow you to experience Myanmar's majestic Bagan region with all ages.
Bagan Living Heritage Tour
An intimate look into the amazing lives of local people, their culture, and communities that make Myanmar such a unique place to visit.
Lost Temples of Bagan
This tour is for those who really want to get off the beaten track and experience the true hidden gems of Bagan. This exploration includes many sites not listed on tourist maps and rarely visited.
Romantic Bagan for Couples
Discover authentic Myanmar as a pair with our customisable experiences for couples in stunning Bagan! We arrange all the extras for your romantic holiday in Bagan.
Bagan Proposal Package
Planning a surprise marriage proposal in Bagan? We can arrange the perfect day: balloons over temples at sunrise, a horse carriage ride, fresh flowers and candlelight. Contact us to personalise your Bagan proposal package!