From river valleys dotted with pagodas to inland ruins that map centuries of trade and faith, Myanmar’s landscape is a living archive of Southeast Asian history. Visitors and scholars come for quiet temple plains, archaeological layers and distinct regional styles that reveal long-standing cultural connections.
There are 2 World Heritage Sites in Myanmar, ranging from Bagan to Pyu Ancient Cities. For each entry the list shows Inscription year, Location (region; coordinates), UNESCO criteria — details you’ll find below.
How easy is it to visit these sites?
Bagan is the more visited and well-served destination with regular buses, flights to nearby airports and a range of accommodations; exploring its temples is straightforward by e-bike or car. The Pyu Ancient Cities are a set of dispersed archaeological sites that may require more planning, local guides and occasional permits, so check current access information and arrange transportation in advance.
Why were Bagan and the Pyu Ancient Cities inscribed?
Bagan was recognized for its exceptional concentration of Buddhist monuments and urban layout, while the Pyu Ancient Cities illustrate early urbanization and long-distance cultural exchange in mainland Southeast Asia; together they meet UNESCO’s cultural criteria for outstanding historical and archaeological value.
World Heritage Sites in Myanmar
| Site name | Inscription year | Location (region; coordinates) | UNESCO criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyu Ancient Cities | 2014 | Irrawaddy Basin; 18.80, 95.29 | Cultural: (ii), (iii), (iv). Testimony to the Pyu civilization. |
| Bagan | 2019 | Mandalay Region; 21.17, 94.86 | Cultural: (iii), (iv), (vi). Outstanding Buddhist art and architecture. |
Images and Descriptions
Pyu Ancient Cities
Explore the remains of Halin, Beikthano, and Sri Ksetra, three walled cities that flourished for over 1,000 years. These sites provide the earliest evidence of Buddhism in Southeast Asia and showcase sophisticated irrigation systems and early urban planning.
Bagan
This spectacular sacred landscape features thousands of surviving temples, stupas, and monasteries from the 11th to 13th centuries. Bagan is an extraordinary testament to the devotion of the Pagan Kingdom and remains an important center for Buddhist pilgrimage today.
