Many reluctant to visit Myanmar, but Bagan’s temples make the trip worth it

Why travellers hesitate

Since the 2021 military coup and the years of intermittent violence that followed, many foreign travellers have grown wary of visiting Myanmar. Western governments have repeatedly issued travel advisories, and it has been reported that sanctions and airline suspensions have made getting there harder and more expensive. Is a trip to Myanmar worth the risk? For those trying to weigh safety, ethics and the logistics of travel, the answer depends on location and preparation — but for many visitors, Bagan remains a compelling exception.

Why Bagan still matters

Bagan’s vast archaeological plain, with thousands of stupas and temples rising from the red earth, is not only visually spectacular; it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies centuries of Buddhist art and Burmese history. Fewer tourists now mean quieter temple visits and a more intimate experience of sunrise balloon flights, pagoda terraces and lacquerware workshops. It has been reported that local communities in Bagan rely heavily on tourism income, and visiting responsibly can help support them during a difficult period.

Practical cautions and geopolitical context

That said, travel to Myanmar requires caution. Some regions remain active conflict zones, and services such as international insurance, consular support and flights can be limited or change quickly. It has been reported that tourist infrastructure in places like Bagan is functioning but fragile. Travellers should monitor government advisories, buy flexible tickets, use reputable guides and operators, and consider the moral questions of spending in a country under military rule — a nuance often lost in a simple itinerary.

Bottom line

For culture-driven travellers who do their homework, Bagan still rewards the journey with extraordinary heritage and quieter roads. But the backdrop is geopolitical complexity: sanctions, safety advisories and ethical concerns are part of the decision. If you go, go informed — and go in a way that supports local people and preserves the fragile sites you came to see.