A view of Thatbyinnyu Temple from the Nathlaung Temple

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Nat Hlaung Kyaung

Pagan, Myanmar (Burma)

The only 11th-century Hindu temple in Old Bagan, dedicated to Vishnu, offering a unique glimpse into the region's diverse religious past.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

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Nat Hlaung Kyaung

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The only 11th-century Hindu temple in Old Bagan, dedicated to Vishnu, offering a unique glimpse into the region's diverse religious past.

"A rare surviving Hindu temple in Bagan, offering a unique historical perspective despite its name."

TIP

🎯 Understand the Name

It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.

Quick Facts

Address

Nat Hlaung Kyaung, Anawrahta Rd, Pagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vishnu Shrine

Sanctum

The main shrine features Vishnu, though original idols have been replaced over time due to damage and theft.

Hindu Deities Niches

Around the sanctum

Discover niches that once held various Hindu gods, showcasing the temple's religious heritage.

Architectural Remnants

Explore the remaining structure of this 11th-century temple, a rare surviving example of Hindu architecture in Bagan.

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Beyond the Name: It's a Hindu Temple!

Despite its name, Nat Hlaung Kyaung is the sole Hindu temple in Old Bagan, dating back to the 11th century. Don't expect Nat shrines; it houses Hindu deities, primarily Vishnu.

Preservation & Access

This ancient structure has faced damage and pillaging. While stucco images are present, original idols may be lost. Visit respectfully and be mindful of its historical significance.

Best Times

When

Early morning

Why

Beat the heat and crowds

Crowd

Low

When

Late afternoon

Why

Golden hour light

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I learnt this appeasement to the Burmese Nats from a Nat Gadaw in Pyay. #tiktokmyanmar #kopete #thankyoumyanmar #myanmar

@kopetebwb

56K likes • 930.3K views

🎯 Understand the Name

It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.

Nathlaung Kyaung, as the name suggests, indicates a Nat shrine. However, this is not a Nat shrine, but the only Hindu Temple in Old Bagan. In fact, it is the only medieval Hindu temple anywhere in Burma. The other Hindu temples in Rangoon and Mandalay were built by Indians who migrated to Burma during the British colonial period, within the last two hundred years. Hence, from the perspective of Hi...

indiastretched

156 likes • 0 views

Niches around Nathlaung Kyaung's sanctum has images of various Hindu gods. These stucco images are rather modern and the original ones were destroyed in earthquakes.

indiastretched

154 likes • 0 views

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the history, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bagan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry plenty of water.

Vishnu reclining on his mount, the King of Nagas, Ananta Sesha. This image however may not be the original one because Nathlaung Kyaung has been subjected to much abandonment, damage and pillaging in its long history. It seems unlikely that the original image would have survived a thousand years. It is more likely that this stucco Vishnu is a more recent version of what originally existed here. Ne...

indiastretched

139 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Understand the Name

It's a Hindu temple, not a Nat shrine, despite the name!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around ancient ruins, so comfy footwear is a must.

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the history, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bagan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry plenty of water.

What Travellers Say

4.6

(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Nat Hlaung Kyaung as the sole Hindu temple in Bagan, offering a unique historical perspective. While its name is misleading, its significance as an 11th-century structure dedicated to Vishnu is recognized. Some disappointment exists regarding the replacement of original idols due to historical damage.

What People Like

Unique Hindu temple

Historical significance

Architectural remnants

What People Dislike

Misleading name

Lost original idols

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Nat Hlaung Kyaung is located in Old Bagan. You can reach it by e-bike, horse cart, or taxi from your accommodation. Many visitors combine it with visits to nearby temples.

Public transport within Bagan is limited. E-bikes are the most popular and convenient way to explore the temples, including Nat Hlaung Kyaung.

Renting an e-bike offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, you can hire a horse cart for a more traditional experience, or a taxi for comfort.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Bagan archaeological zone ticket is required to enter the area where Nat Hlaung Kyaung is located. Purchase this at the official ticket counters.

The temple is generally open from sunrise to sunset, aligning with the typical visiting hours for Bagan's archaeological sites.

No, there isn't a separate fee for Nat Hlaung Kyaung itself. Your Bagan archaeological zone ticket covers entry to all sites within the zone.

While generally accessible during daylight hours, it's best to visit during cooler parts of the day to avoid the midday heat.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash inside the main shrine areas and be mindful of other visitors.

The niches with deity images and the exterior architecture offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding smaller temples also make for interesting shots. +1

Drone usage is typically restricted in Bagan's archaeological zones to preserve the sites and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying.

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

It's the only surviving Hindu temple from the Bagan period, dating back to the 11th century, and is dedicated to Vishnu.

The name 'Nat Hlaung Kyaung' translates to 'Nat-supporting Monastery,' which is a historical misnomer. It has always been a Hindu temple.

Yes, the temple has suffered from abandonment, earthquakes, and pillaging, leading to the loss of original idols and some structural damage. +2