If you’re a photographer looking for an amazing destination to capture some stunning street photography, Bagan in Myanmar should definitely be on your list. This ancient city is full of winding streets, bustling markets, and friendly locals, all of which provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of everyday life in this beautiful country. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Bagan such a great destination for street photography and offer some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

My goal is to travel the world and document the everyday scenes on the streets. I was able to capture the beauty of the busy everyday life in the streets of Bagan, Myanmar, and here are some of my favorite shots from my ‘Street Photography in Bagan, Myanmar’ series.

HERE ARE SOME OTHER INSPIRING STREET PHOTOGRAPHY IN Bagan, Myanmar POSTS IN CASE YOU’RE INTERESTED:

Why Bagan is a Great Destination for Street Photography

There are several reasons why Bagan is such a great destination for street photography. For starters, the city is home to over 2,000 ancient temples, pagodas, and monasteries, which provide a wealth of stunning architectural subjects to capture. These temples are often surrounded by vibrant markets and bustling streets, which offer the perfect opportunity to capture candid shots of locals going about their daily lives.

Another reason why Bagan is such a great destination for street photography is the warmth and friendliness of its people. Myanmar is known for its hospitality, and the locals in Bagan are no exception. You’ll find that many are more than happy to pose for a photo or engage in conversation, which can make for some truly memorable shots.

Tips for Capturing Great Street Photography in Bagan

If you’re planning a trip to Bagan and want to capture some stunning street photography, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Plan your visit carefully

Bagan can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Plan your visit carefully to avoid the crowds and get the best shots.

Be respectful

When photographing locals, always ask for permission first. It’s also important to be respectful of cultural norms and dress appropriately.

Capture the details

Look for the small details that make Bagan unique, such as the intricate carvings on the temples or the colorful street food vendors.

Experiment with different perspectives

Don’t be afraid to get down low or up high to capture a unique perspective on the scene.

Edit your photos

Once you’ve captured your shots, take the time to edit them carefully to bring out the best in each image.

Bagan, Myanmar
Street Photography in Bagan, Myanmar

As I was walking around the temples of Old Bagan, I was observing the activities of the locals in order for me to have an idea about their culture, and how important faith and religion it is to them. It is mandatory for temple visitors in Myanmar to take their shoes/slippers off as a gesture of respect to the Buddhist Gods. In front of one of the temples, I was able to capture an image of locals eating snacks and a kid monk walking and playing around.

Street Photography in Bagan, Myanmar

Another good place to capture street photographs and observe the daily activities of the locals is the Nyaung U Market in Bagan. In here, you will see different local food and local products that are unique to Myanmar. I was also able to see different artworks sold by locals, from pottery to cultural/religious figures. I was able to perfectly capture a photo of a local with a colorful outfit that perfectly blended with the color of the wall and the tarpaulin above him.


Bagan in Myanmar is a photographer’s paradise, offering a wealth of stunning subjects and friendly locals to capture on camera. With a little planning and some careful attention to detail, you can capture some truly unforgettable street photography in this beautiful city. So if you’re a photographer looking for your next great adventure, consider adding Bagan to your list of must-visit destinations.

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