Bagan Temple

Bagan Temple Marathon
Sat 25 November 2017

Tucked away in central Myanmar on the banks of the Irrawaddy River the ancient site of Bagan is home to more than 2000 Buddhist temples. Rising above the palm trees these red-brick pagodas glimmer in the sun, standing in bright contrast to the green countryside. This magical landscape is the “heart of Myanmar” – and the setting for The Bagan Temple Marathon.

Runners can admire Bagan’s beautiful temples and traditional villages which exude an aura of yesteryear. Three competitive distances are offered: marathon, half-marathon and 10km. All events start and finish at Htilominlo Temple (1211 AD).

Being held in late November conditions are typically hot (about 30°C) and humid. This combination is challenging but the beautiful temples, friendly villagers and other-worldly atmosphere make the Bagan Temple Marathon a special experience.

Along the route there are magnificent views of marvels like Sulamani Temple and Ananda Temple. Runners continue through the countryside and small villages, passing monks both young and old, ox-laden carts carrying grain, farmers tending to their rice and peanut fields and curious children outfitted in festive clothing. Their warm smiles, cheers and high-fives provide an energy boost. The terrain is relatively flat with dirt and sand paths, as well as some paved roads.

The adventure that is The Bagan Temple Marathon starts in Yangon and Mandalay. Guests can visit one of Yangon’s most iconic symbols: the intricately-adorned Shwedagon Pagoda which is believed to be over 2500 years old. A lunch of exquisite Myanmar cuisine is followed by a tour on the Karaweik Royal Barge, a floating palace on Kandawgyi Lake. There’s also the possibility of a cruise from Mandalay to Bagan along the serene Irrawaddy River.

After the race there is time to explore Bagan’s majestic temples, redolent of the glorious era of 11th century kings.

Extensions are available to Inle Lake, famous for their special leg-rowing technique and floating gardens, or the palm-fringed Ngapali Beach.

Multiple tour options are available from event organizer, Albatros Adventure Marathons, giving participants the opportunity to run or cheer. Six- and eight-day tours were offered for the 2017 event (priced from 1198 USD inclusive of accommodation, domestic flights, transportation, tour leader, 4-day entry to historic Bagan, parties and more).

On 25 November 2017 we invite you to follow this year’s event via our race feed with photos and videos on Facebook @bagantemplemarathon. For “early bird” registration to The Bagan Temple Marathon on 24 November 2018 join our e-newsletter at www.bagan-temple-marathon.com.