Mt Popa: The Sacred Volcano of Myanmar

Getting There

• Private Car

  If you are traveling by private car from Bago, head out of Bago towards the city of Naypyidaw. Follow the signs for the Yangon-Mandalay Highway (also known as the Asian Highway 1). Continue on this highway for approximately 90 kilometers until you reach the town of Kyaukpadaung. From there, follow the signs directing you to Mt Popa, which is about 20 kilometers away. The drive is scenic, but be cautious of road conditions and local traffic.

• Public Bus

  To reach Mt Popa by public transportation, first take a bus from Bago to Mandalay at the Bago Central Bus Station. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, costing around 6,000-10,000 MMK (Myanmar Kyat). Once you arrive in Mandalay, head to the Mandalay Bus Station and find a bus heading to Kyaukpadaung. This portion of the trip will take approximately 1-1.5 hours and cost around 3,000-5,000 MMK. After reaching Kyaukpadaung, you can hire a taxi or a local motorbike taxi for the final 20 kilometers to Mt Popa. Taxi fares may range from 5,000-10,000 MMK.

• Shared Taxi

  Another option is to take a shared taxi from Bago to Mandalay. This will be slightly more expensive than the bus, costing around 15,000-20,000 MMK but will save you time. You can then transfer to a taxi or a local bus to Kyaukpadaung as mentioned in the public bus section. Once in Kyaukpadaung, hire a taxi or motorbike taxi to reach Mt Popa.

• Motorbike Rental

  For the more adventurous, consider renting a motorbike in Bago. After renting, follow the same route towards Naypyidaw and then to Kyaukpadaung. Make sure to have your helmet and a valid driving license. The trip will allow you to explore the countryside at your own pace, but be cautious of road safety. Gas stations are available along the route.