Bagan rides old bones for tourist gold
More than 60 traditional horse carts will operate in Bagan for the Tazaungdine holiday period starting Nov. 1, when peak tourist season begins, the Bagan Horse Cart Association announced. The service will run through Nov. 4, as hotels report that advance bookings are reaching capacity for the festival week.
Two main stations at Thatbyinnyu and Ananda temples provide regular routes and private rentals, while additional stands near Htilominlo, Culamani and Shwesandaw pagodas serve visitors. Association Chairman U Myat Thu said international tourists typically rent entire carts, while local families prefer shared rides. Prices have risen slightly from previous seasons.
About 30 horse carts operate from the primary stations on typical days. Riders can reach Shwekoncha Pagoda near the Ayeyawady River, Nat Taung Monastery and Yinmana Hill viewpoint. Horse carts remain popular despite modern transportation options because they complement the ancient cultural zone’s atmosphere.
