Mount Popa
Mount Popa
3.5
About
This extinct volcano contains the shrine of the Mahagiri Nat spirits.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Mount Popa
The area
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
2 within 3 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
3.5
1,805 reviews
Excellent
415
Very good
560
Average
512
Poor
193
Terrible
125
AriaFitz
Santiago, Chile263 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
If you are not religious, and just a regular occidental tourist like me, then you need to know this before you choose to spend your time here.
First of all, everyone asks you for donation, which is totally fine but at some point you get really tired of it. You don’t have to pay anything to go up and inside. A rude man at the shoes locker pushed me to pay what I think was a donation but I looked at his friend and he kindly showed the way up, ignoring the rude man.
It is full of monkeys all the way up, who are respectful. We didn’t have any incident with them, they didn’t try to take our staff like monkeys from the Monkey forest in Ubud. They only stare at you if you have food in your hands.
The floor is the dirtiest we’ve had in our whole trip in Myanmar and Asia. So far it was fine to walk around without shoes, but here I felt disgusted because it’s sticky, with thrash and monkey poop. I already wanted to go down from the step 1. If you are looking forward to count the 777 steps, forget it. You can’t really tell where it starts. The good thing is that the steps have a roof, so the sun doesn’t hit you. You will see people cleaning the steps though, and this is the people I decided to donate because the floor felt different where they were cleaning.
There’s not much to see on the top except for the view. It ain’t a nice pagoda like the ones in Mandalay, Bagan or Yangon. It’s actually quite unorganized, like if they constructed one place after the other without planing. The main thing you’ll see are inscriptions in the walls from people who have donated “big” amounts of money. I don’t feel it is being well conserved. We spent about 20 min on the top, taking pictures of the view and that’s it. Maybe you should re consider if you want to be 1:15 min on the car all the way there, 30 min going up, 20 min on the top, 15 min going down, and then 1:15 again back to your hotel or to Bagan.
After the mountain you can visit the 37 spirits. I was disappointed again, because they are in a narrow hall inside a room and they are statues of people on a row, but no signs of their story to read, so I learned nothing.
I don’t really recommend it if you don’t have much time in Bagan.
First of all, everyone asks you for donation, which is totally fine but at some point you get really tired of it. You don’t have to pay anything to go up and inside. A rude man at the shoes locker pushed me to pay what I think was a donation but I looked at his friend and he kindly showed the way up, ignoring the rude man.
It is full of monkeys all the way up, who are respectful. We didn’t have any incident with them, they didn’t try to take our staff like monkeys from the Monkey forest in Ubud. They only stare at you if you have food in your hands.
The floor is the dirtiest we’ve had in our whole trip in Myanmar and Asia. So far it was fine to walk around without shoes, but here I felt disgusted because it’s sticky, with thrash and monkey poop. I already wanted to go down from the step 1. If you are looking forward to count the 777 steps, forget it. You can’t really tell where it starts. The good thing is that the steps have a roof, so the sun doesn’t hit you. You will see people cleaning the steps though, and this is the people I decided to donate because the floor felt different where they were cleaning.
There’s not much to see on the top except for the view. It ain’t a nice pagoda like the ones in Mandalay, Bagan or Yangon. It’s actually quite unorganized, like if they constructed one place after the other without planing. The main thing you’ll see are inscriptions in the walls from people who have donated “big” amounts of money. I don’t feel it is being well conserved. We spent about 20 min on the top, taking pictures of the view and that’s it. Maybe you should re consider if you want to be 1:15 min on the car all the way there, 30 min going up, 20 min on the top, 15 min going down, and then 1:15 again back to your hotel or to Bagan.
After the mountain you can visit the 37 spirits. I was disappointed again, because they are in a narrow hall inside a room and they are statues of people on a row, but no signs of their story to read, so I learned nothing.
I don’t really recommend it if you don’t have much time in Bagan.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Derek T
Brisbane, Australia23 contributions
Jan 2020
when you see small groups of pilgrims take the ride to mount popa in the back of a truck, you know this is going to be a special place for those who live here and near by. there are a number of smaller significant places to look at in the small village at the base of the mountain that would do well to be described separately but worth doing a walk in and around the shops and buildings at the base. the walk up is moderate and a few nice view points to stop and take a break on the 700 odd step climb up. the journey isn't complete if you skip the rooms to the side on the way. the monkeys on the walk can be tricky, so watch out and maybe dont ware your best sunglasses. we walked up at dusk and they were very active and again the next day and it was much less bothersome in the middle of the day. the place and setting is beautiful and well worth taking some time at the top to get a sense of how calming a place this and many of the temple sites are, just like the people who live there.
Written February 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
zsszn
Bratislava Region, Slovakia497 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
This was our worst decision to rent a tuk tuk and make a half day trip to Popa (our Hotel Emerald arrange it for 30k). At the beginning we stopped at touristic village, which was the highlight of our tour, but at that time I don't know about it. After that coming the next cca. 16km, poor people in right and left side of the road in every 20meter. It is really sad, they want money, and sometimes from big cars tourists throu them money. But it is really not a nice beginning of journey - it depressed everybody. And the way back is only coming.
When we arrive to Popa, start to climb. The stairs was dirty, at the top also dirty everywhere. The view is ok, if you a hill lover, but at the top no much to see. Coming down, 16km of depression, say goodbye to the driver and we know, this was our worst invested time and money in Myanmar.
When we arrive to Popa, start to climb. The stairs was dirty, at the top also dirty everywhere. The view is ok, if you a hill lover, but at the top no much to see. Coming down, 16km of depression, say goodbye to the driver and we know, this was our worst invested time and money in Myanmar.
Written January 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aleena S
Yeppoon, Australia45 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
There is nothing worth seeing at the top but dirty, dated, tacky shrines. The view was riddled with plastic rubbish. The steps were soiled from the monkeys but cleaner than we expected (there were cleaners). The handrails were filthy. We had to pay to use the filthy toilets (they need to employ a cleaner). The monkeys weren’t a problem as the cleaners shoo them away. Sadly beggers line the road on the drive there, yelling for donations.
Written February 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wendy b
115 contributions
Dec 2019
Being Templed out from Bagan we decided to go to Mount Popa for the morning. As a over weight 50 year old I was a little worried about the climb, however rest assured its not too difficult.
There are plenty of people cleaning the stairs [monkey pooh and pee], so this is a welcome relief as you are barefoot.
Although the monastery/ temple a t the top is not that impressive, its a good view plus you do feel a sense of achievement for climbing to the top.
I would recommend this as a mornings activity its worth the effort.
There are plenty of people cleaning the stairs [monkey pooh and pee], so this is a welcome relief as you are barefoot.
Although the monastery/ temple a t the top is not that impressive, its a good view plus you do feel a sense of achievement for climbing to the top.
I would recommend this as a mornings activity its worth the effort.
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Globalvillage
Sydney, Australia50 contributions
Dec 2019 • Friends
We did a day trip out to Mount Popa from Bagan. The drive there was interesting as we saw quite a bit of local life. Mount Popa is very popular with the locals as it is seen as a key pilgrimage site for Nat devotees. The climb to the top involves 777 steps, with a few stops along the way to take in the breath taking views and visit the many Nat shrine halls. There are also little shops that sell flowers and wooden handicrafts. There are several monkeys that are on the lookout for food from the pilgrims. Once atop the hill/volcano, the monastery itself is a little underwhelming for tourists.
Written January 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wastaman67
Crete, Greece28 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Monkey ripped my glasses off my face, and we had to throw food up at it to get them back. Saw the same thing happen to another lady earlier in the day. You have been warned.
777 steps to the top, well maintained.
Monastery at the top has a solid focus on fund raising. The signs thanking recent donors are entertaining.
777 steps to the top, well maintained.
Monastery at the top has a solid focus on fund raising. The signs thanking recent donors are entertaining.
Written January 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
atran1979
Adelaide, Australia28 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
The drive to mount popa is long bumpy with many sharp turns. The road is aligned with lots of beggars which we were not told about pre trip. We have been told it is dangerous to stop and throwing money out of the window is equally dangerous. It’s a sad sight. Upon reaching Mount popa you immediately see many monkeys so take care with your belongings.
The climb is steep so not advisable for younger children. My 11 and 8 year old were able to climb but it wasn’t without difficulty. Monkeys came up and personal and we saw one jump on someone and wouldn’t get off until given food. The view is magnificent from the top - breathtaking
The climb is steep so not advisable for younger children. My 11 and 8 year old were able to climb but it wasn’t without difficulty. Monkeys came up and personal and we saw one jump on someone and wouldn’t get off until given food. The view is magnificent from the top - breathtaking
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Prasanna_Ariyadasa
Naha, Japan54 contributions
Dec 2019
we had our stay at Mt.Poppa Resort and had sunset view and early morning view.
those views were fantastic.
but climbing Mt.Poppa was not a great experience and view from the top of Mt.Poppa is also not the best.
But I am happy about the whole experience.
those views were fantastic.
but climbing Mt.Poppa was not a great experience and view from the top of Mt.Poppa is also not the best.
But I am happy about the whole experience.
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adam Jones
Beijing, China196 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Mount Popa is amazing. It is home to the “Nats” or gods in Myanmar culture. Popa is actually a dormant volcano which makes it all the more interesting. The hike is mostly stairs, and I believe there are some 550 of them. Anyone in reasonable shape shouldn’t have any issue. For me, Mount Popa is a must if you are traveling Myanmar.
Written November 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Evelin L
Brisbane, Australia
Would anyone like to buy accommodation at Popa Mountain Resort. I booked a Delux Garden View (Double) from 18. - 20. Dec, but unfortunately cannot make it due to an emergency back home. I paid US$183. Happy to sell for US$100
Written November 14, 2019
For anyone interested in Evelins accommodation, Mt Popa Mountain Resort is a very beautiful, tranquil resort set amongst the bush with full restaurant/bar facilities. A 2 night stay would be perfect for a relaxing break after the hectic sightseeing, our 1 night stay was not long enough.
Written November 14, 2019
Elynn Yeap
Malaysia
hi, may i know, do u have any good driver cum tour guide to recomend for me? I wil move to bagan on march too.
Written February 24, 2019
We went to a tour place directly over the road from our resort. These places are pretty much everywhere. My only recommendation would be don’t book through your hotel reception as it will cost more.
Written February 24, 2019
Hi everyone :) Do you know when the Nat Festival in Mount Popa is this year? In December? I read different dates in the schedules for festivals,...
Thank you!
Written December 9, 2016
Dear sir,
As my Bagan friend told me -festival December 28..enjoy..
Written December 10, 2016
Hi Gcannon! how much did you pay for the driver from Bagan to Mount Papa and return, we would like to do a half day tour, depart early in the morning and return by noon, do you think is doable? thank you!
Written June 19, 2016
I have the tour from Authentic Myanmar, they cover all. You can contact them through their web.Very good travel agent(Phaung)
Written June 21, 2016
Existe alguna posibilidad de subida para personas de movilidad reducida
Written November 11, 2015
Me temo que sería muy complicado. Las escaleras son empinadas, formadas por muchos tramos y de distintos tipos. Una estructura un poco caótica y sin ascensor o funicular.
En otros lugares (la roca dorada, por ejemplo) existen porteadores que por una cantidad de dinero pueden subir al que lo necesite... en este caso no hay esa posibilidad.
Hay un templo en la parte inferior al nivel de la calle muy accesible para los NATS y la puesta de sol con el monte Popa de fondo también puede ser un aliciente si no se puede acceder a la cima.
Written November 18, 2015
What an interesting question. Did you read the reviews? What are you looking for in your travels? If you want to experience Myanmar and the rituals/life of the people, then go. If you are looking for some 5-star resort-ish type place, stay home. Its dirty. Its poor. There are monkeys every where, which also means poop. The stalls set up by venders are nothing but cheap dirty junky stuff. With that said, i enjoyed being there-immensly. I didnt climb the steps. I wandered about the village that has sprouted up at the base and rubbed elbows with the locals. One of my best days in the country! I fear for you asking-are you sure this country is the right adventure for you????
Written October 27, 2015
Is there anywhere else to stay on Mount Popa apart from the 5 * resort?
Written October 6, 2015
I have visited Mount Popa and its surroundings several times in the past, on hot days, in pouring rain.Each time it was fascinating. A few times I traveled by car to Mount Popa on a half-day trip, so I did not have to look for lodging along the road passing by Mount Popa. Once I and my wife stayed at Mount Popa Resort as guests of the hotel.
Some people take a special tour by car (arranged by a travel agency in Yangon) that starts in Bagan, then takes you to Mount Popa first.After the usual half-day visit the trip continues to Kalaw where you will spend a night or two at the beautiful HIllTop Villa Resort, followed by two nights at Pindaya to visit the famous shrine caves, and finally you end-up at the world-famous Inle Lake. Your care then will take you back to Heho Airport from where you may fly to other destinations in Myanmar.
I was told that the best thing is to ask the Yangon-based travel agency if they are aware of cheap family-style accommodations in the proximity of Mount Popa. In this case the guide will buy some basic food for you from the local market.
The room rates you can expect depend on the season. Maybe the travel agency can offer you special rates (being part of a special tour). Let me know if I can be of further help.
Written October 10, 2015
Votre avis m'a beaucoup intéressée et j'ai très envie de faire cette ascension mais, crachats, déjections de singes .. et pieds nus me rebutent sérieusement, sans compter que je dois porter des semelles orthopédiques.. Que l'on ne puisse pas porter de chaussures, soit, mais les chaussettes qui me permettraient de les cacher ne peuvent- elles être tolérées ?? Je l'ai fait ds les temples au Sri Lanka et tt s'est TB passé. Merci d'avance pour votre réponse.
Written May 12, 2015
Bonjour Sylvette,
En effet il est assez difficile de monter avec les chaussettes; on peut négocier au lieu ou l'on dépose les chaussures; j'y suis arrivé. Mais ça vaut le coup!! La montée n'est pas difficile et l'on peut prendre son temps.Pas trop sale non plus; il y a des efforts de nettoyage. Alors bon voyage en Birmanie/Myanmar. J C Girard
Written May 14, 2015
Showing results 1-9 of 9
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing