Horse Carriage Ride in Bagan, Pukam

Horse Carriage Ride in Bagan, Pukam: Experience the Old Town Lifestyle with mr.hotsia

When it comes to a classic experience not to be missed when visiting Bagan, also known by many as Pukam, the ancient city filled with thousands of pagodas and temples, taking a horse carriage ride is one of the activities I, mr.hotsia, highly recommend without hesitation.

I took a horse carriage from Nyaung-U town, where I stayed. The driver initially asked for 13 US dollars, but with friendly bargaining, it was reduced to just 10 dollars for a full hour. The carriage seats two people comfortably without crowding. The driver spoke little English but tried to tell me he wanted to take me to the Irrawaddy River. I chose to ride around Nyaung-U town instead, intending to capture the atmosphere of the town and experience the local way of life more closely.

The horse carriage route takes you across the dusty roads unique to Nyaung-U. Most roads are still very dusty, so if you plan to visit Bagan like me, I recommend bringing a face mask to help you breathe more comfortably. I, mr.hotsia, spent the time slowly enjoying the houses, shops, and the simple, warm lifestyle of the locals.

Although the horse carriage ride does not take you to see the beautiful views of the Bagan pagoda sea at sunrise or sunset, it is delightful to witness the real life of Bagan people in Nyaung-U, which is completely different from the images we see on postcards or typical travel books.

Why did I choose to ride a horse carriage in town instead of going to the pagoda sea?

Many might wonder why I, mr.hotsia, did not choose to ride a horse carriage to see the Bagan pagoda sea at sunrise or sunset, which is a highlight many tourists never miss. The answer is the cost. The expense for such a horse carriage tour is quite high and not as cost-effective as renting a taxi. So I chose to take a taxi to comfortably see the pagoda sea, saving time and money.

But for riding a horse carriage in Nyaung-U town, I think it is perfect for those who want to experience a slow-paced lifestyle and atmosphere, travel unhurriedly, and interact closely with locals. Although the driver speaks little English, it is a new experience that I, mr.hotsia, really enjoy.

Nyaung-U Town and Its Simple Lifestyle

Nyaung-U is a town with a very interesting morning market and walking street. I, mr.hotsia, took a stroll around the morning market, found Indian-style tea and roti shops along the roadside. There is also authentic Myanmar food easily found in the backpacker alleys here.

If you want to try local food, I recommend stopping byRestaurants in Bagan, Pukamthat I have recommended before. “Shwe Yar Su” is one of my regular spots with delicious food and Myanmar Beer. There is also a tasty chicken curry restaurant opposite the New Park Hotel that I recommend trying if you like fresh, spicy traditional Myanmar flavors.

Connecting Travel in Myanmar and Broader Context

Bagan is one of the destinations that made me, mr.hotsia, realize that Myanmar is not just about beautiful pagodas but also has interesting local lifestyles and beautiful simplicity. For those interested in exploring Myanmar further, I recommend reading articles aboutKachin Statewhere I visited the source of the Irrawaddy River, or if you love nature and large freshwater lakes, don't missIndawgyia lake with high biodiversity in Kachin State.

Traveling in Myanmar is often full of real challenges and excitement, whether renting a motorcycle in Myitkyina or slowly riding a horse carriage in Bagan. Every step lets us experience the true charm of this country.

Summary of mr.hotsia's Horse Carriage Ride Experience in Bagan

For me, mr.hotsia, riding a horse carriage in Bagan is a chill activity that truly lets you experience the local way of life. Although the route in Nyaung-U town does not offer beautiful views like the pagoda sea, seeing the daily life of villagers, exchanging smiles with the carriage driver, and traveling through dusty roads filled with the old town's atmosphere made this trip more meaningful and memorable.

If you are planning to visit Pukam, try to set aside an hour to ride a horse carriage and let yourself slow down with this journey. You will feel, like me, mr.hotsia, a deep connection to the sincerity of Bagan city.