Bagan: Hot air balloon ride over temples with breakfast

Summary

Watching Bagan wake up from a balloon—temples, mist, and quiet laughter

You’ll float quietly above Bagan as dawn breaks, watching temples appear through morning mist and locals start their day below you. With a local guide handling everything—from hotel pickup to sharing stories—you’ll sip coffee before takeoff and celebrate with champagne after landing. It’s an experience you’ll remember every time you see sunrise colors.

What’s the experience like?

“If you’re nervous, just look out—not down,” our pilot joked as we climbed into the basket in the half-dark. I tried to laugh but my hands were already gripping the edge. The crew moved around us quietly, their breath visible in the cool morning air. There was this faint smell of gas and something sweet—maybe the tea they’d handed out while we waited for the balloon to inflate. I kept glancing at the horizon, trying to spot which way the wind would take us over Bagan’s temples.

The first few minutes were quieter than I expected. No engine noise, just that soft whoosh every time the burner flared up. Below us, Bagan started waking up—thin lines of smoke rising from cooking fires, a couple of kids waving (I waved back, probably too enthusiastically). Our guide pointed out Shwesandaw Pagoda in the distance; it looked almost unreal from above, like something drawn on rice paper. Sometimes we drifted low enough to see people feeding goats or cycling to market. One woman looked up and grinned—I think she shouted something but all I caught was her wave.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm up there. The basket barely moved; it felt more like floating than flying. The sun came up fast—suddenly everything was gold and orange and you could see thousands of pagodas poking through the mist. Someone next to me whispered “it’s like another planet.” Maybe it was just the altitude or maybe it was the silence, but I felt weirdly emotional for a minute. After we landed (softly—my knees still shook), they handed us champagne and a light breakfast right there in a field. Our pilot signed these little flight certificates for everyone; mine’s still tucked in my journal.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Bagan

• Hot air balloon ride over ancient temples

Top questions

How long does the hot air balloon ride over Bagan last?

The exact flight time varies with wind conditions but typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

Is hotel pickup included for this Bagan hot air balloon tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What is served after landing from the balloon ride?

A glass of champagne and a light breakfast are provided after landing.

Are there age or height restrictions for passengers?

The minimum age is 7 years old and passengers must be at least 125 cm (4’1”) tall.

Do I get photos from my hot air balloon flight?

Yes, free inflight photos are available for download from their website after your flight.

Is it safe for people afraid of heights?

The basket is very stable with no swaying or rocking; most people with fear of heights feel comfortable during the flight.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, pre-flight coffee or tea while watching the crew prepare your balloon, a guided hot air balloon ride over Bagan’s temples at sunrise, inflight photos to download later, plus champagne and a light breakfast after landing before heading back to your hotel.