Is Bagan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bagan is generally safe for solo female travelers. Most locals are friendly and helpful, and crime rates are relatively low. However, it's a good idea to exercise common sense and take basic precautions, such as not walking alone late at night and securing your personal belongings. Most areas in Bagan are touristic and thus well-patrolled for visitor's safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Bagan?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Bagan is relatively safe for solo female travelers even at night. The local community is friendly and crime rates are generally low. However, like any other destination, it is always recommended to be vigilant. Avoid unlit and secluded areas after dark and always make sure you know your way back to your hotel. Using reliable transportation such as Bagan's famous e-bikes can also increase your safety at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Bagan, like the local buses and taxis, is relatively safe. However, it's not very organized and might require some negotiation skills, especially with taxi fares. Language barriers can also pose a challenge. It's also crucial to be cautious about your belongings to avoid pickpockets. The electric scooters and horse-cart rides are quite popular and generally safe options to get around, as Bagan is a significant tourist destination.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

In Bagan, street harassment is relatively low. The local population is traditionally Buddhist and is generally respectful towards women. The street vendors might approach you to sell their wares, but they are usually polite and not persistent. It's a calm and peaceful city that welcomes solo female travelers. As in any location, it's always essential to remain vigilant and respect local customs for dress and behavior. Always remember that experiences may vary depending on the time and places you visit.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Bagan is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching are not exceptionally common. That being said, it's always important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to maintain your safety. Avoid showing conspicuous signs of wealth and keep your valuables secure and unnoticeable at all times. Despite the lower risk of petty crimes, it’s always recommended to ensure that you are aware of your surroundings and the local customs.
Tap water:

Tap water:Very unsafe

It's generally not recommended to drink tap water in Bagan. Water purification systems are not as developed and it may not be potable, carrying the risk of water-borne diseases. It is advisable to stick to drinking bottled water or using water purification methods.

Is Bagan safe to travel?

Is Bagan safe right now?

Before your visit to Bagan, it's essential to check travel advisories for Myanmar, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The United States government advises against any travel to Burma owing to civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary local law enforcement. Reconsider any voyage related to Burma due to limited or inadequate health care and emergency medical resources and areas infested with land mines and unexploded ordnances. Urging to exercise heightened caution due to potential wrongful detentions. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 22, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Canadian Government advises avoiding all travel to Myanmar due to the risk of politically motivated violence and civil unrest. If you are in Myanmar, there is a risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, potentially leading to arrest and detention. It is recommended that you depart immediately, if possible to do so safely. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Australian Government advises against traveling to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation, civil unrest, and potential armed conflict. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 12, 2024

Safety in Myanmar