Myanmar/BurmaTravel Tips

Safety and Health Tips around Bagan Sulamani Temple

1. What are the basic safety precautions I should take while visiting the Bagan Sulamani Temple in Myanmar?


1. Wear appropriate clothing: When visiting the Bagan Sulamani Temple, it is important to wear modest and respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

2. Remove footwear: As with most temples in Myanmar, you will need to remove your shoes before entering the temple compound. There will usually be a designated area for you to leave your shoes.

3. Respect religious customs: The Bagan Sulamani Temple is a place of worship for Buddhists, so it’s important to be respectful of their religious customs. This includes avoiding loud noises, taking photos only in designated areas and not touching any sacred objects or artifacts.

4. Beware of monkeys: Bagan Sulamani Temple is known for its resident monkey population. While they may seem cute and friendly, they can become aggressive if provoked or feel threatened. It’s important to keep a safe distance from them and not feed or touch them.

5. Stay hydrated: Myanmar can have high temperatures and humidity levels, especially during the summer months. Be sure to bring water with you and stay hydrated during your visit to the temple.

6. Watch your step: As with many ancient temples, there may be uneven steps or slippery surfaces at Bagan Sulamani Temple due to wear and tear over time. Be cautious when walking around the temple and make use of handrails if available.

7. Carry insect repellent: The Burmese climate also attracts insects such as mosquitoes, so it’s advisable to carry insect repellent with you during your visit.

8. Stay on designated paths: The Bagan temple complex is vast, with many ruins and structures scattered throughout the area. It’s important to stick to designated pathways and avoid climbing on any fragile structures.

9. Take care of personal belongings: Like with any tourist destination, it’s important to take care of your personal belongings at all times. Avoid carrying large sums of money or valuables with you, and be aware of your surroundings.

10. Follow safety instructions: If there are any safety instructions or warnings at the temple, be sure to follow them. These may include areas that are off-limits to visitors for preservation reasons or specific rules for accessing certain parts of the temple.

2. Are there any areas of the temple that are off-limits to visitors for safety reasons?


Yes, some areas of the temple may be off-limits to visitors for safety reasons, such as certain parts of the temple that are undergoing construction or restoration work. Additionally, there may also be designated areas that are restricted for preservation purposes. It is always important to follow any signage or instructions from temple staff and volunteers to ensure safety and respect for the sacred space.

3. Is it recommended to only visit the temple during daylight hours?


It is typically recommended to visit a temple during daylight hours.

4. How crowded does the temple usually get, and what safety measures should I take in a crowded environment?


The level of crowding in a temple can vary depending on the time and day. It may get especially crowded during festivals or special occasions. To ensure safety in a crowded environment, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying valuables with you. If possible, stay close to trusted individuals or travel in groups. Additionally, following any specific instructions or rules given by the temple staff can also help maintain safety in a crowded setting.

5. Are there any specific dress code requirements for visiting the temple?


Yes, most temples have certain dress code requirements that visitors must follow. These may include covering shoulders and legs, removing shoes before entering specific areas, and avoiding revealing or provocative clothing. It is important to research the specific rules for each temple before visiting to show respect for their customs and traditions.

6. Are there any dangerous animals or insects around the temple that I should be aware of?


The specific answer to that question would depend on the location of the temple. However, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards in any natural environment, including animals and insects. If you are visiting a temple in a wilderness or rural area, it is important to research the local wildlife and take necessary precautions such as wearing proper clothing and insect repellent. It is also advisable to follow any guidelines or warning signs provided by the temple or local authorities.

7. What is the weather like in Bagan and how can I ensure my safety against extreme heat or rain while visiting the temple?


The weather in Bagan is usually hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) during the summer months of April to May. However, during monsoon season from June to October, there may be heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. To ensure your safety against extreme heat or rain while visiting the temples in Bagan, it is recommended to wear light and breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and carry a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun. During monsoon season, it is important to monitor weather forecasts and avoid visiting temples during heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. It is also advisable to have proper footwear for walking on wet or slippery surfaces.

8. Are there any trained medical personnel or first aid kits available at or near the temple in case of emergencies?


The answer would depend on the specific temple in question. It is recommended to reach out to the temple directly or check their website for information on available medical personnel and first aid kits.

9. Can I climb or access any parts of the temple structure, or is it strictly prohibited for safety reasons?


Yes, it is strictly prohibited to climb or access any parts of the temple structure for safety reasons.

10. Is it safe to bring electronic devices such as cameras or phones inside the temple premises?


It is generally not safe to bring electronic devices such as cameras or phones inside the premises of a temple as it can be considered disrespectful and distracting to others who are practicing their spiritual rituals. It is best to check with the temple authorities beforehand to determine their specific guidelines for electronic devices.

11. What are some common scams or pickpocketing tactics to watch out for at the Bagan Sulamani Temple?


Some common scams or pickpocketing tactics to watch out for at the Bagan Sulamani Temple may include distraction techniques, where a group of people work together to create a diversion while one person steals from you. Common distractions could include someone asking for directions or selling cheap souvenirs, while others take advantage of the confusion to steal your belongings.

Other tactics may include staged accidents, where someone bumps into you or spills something on you and then offers to help clean it up while stealing from you. Another common scam is fake donation boxes, where people pretend to be collecting money for the temple but actually pocket the donations themselves.

It is also important to be cautious of street vendors who may try to overcharge you for items or give incorrect change. Additionally, always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items with you.

Overall, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for any suspicious behavior while visiting the Bagan Sulamani Temple in order to avoid falling victim to scams or pickpocketing.

12. Should I be cautious of unmarked areas or ruins while exploring around the temple?


Yes, it is wise to be cautious of unmarked areas or ruins while exploring around the temple. These areas may be dangerous and unstable, and could potentially pose a threat to your safety. It is important to proceed with caution and stay alert in order to avoid any potential hazards.

13. Is it safe to consume food and drinks from vendors near the temple grounds?


The safety of consuming food and drinks from vendors near temple grounds depends on a variety of factors, such as the sanitation practices of the vendors and the overall cleanliness of the surrounding area. It is important to use caution and follow your own judgement when making choices about where to purchase food and drinks while visiting temple grounds.

14. Are there designated parking areas for visitors’ vehicles near the temple, and are they monitored for security purposes?

No, there are currently no designated parking areas for visitors’ vehicles near the temple. However, visitors are allowed to park in nearby public parking lots or on the streets around the temple. The security of these parking areas is not monitored by the temple.

15. Is it safe to wander around outside of the main temple area, such as in nearby villages or rural roads?


It depends on the specific location and current safety conditions. It is important to research the area beforehand and exercise caution when exploring outside of the main temple area.

16. Are there any specific cultural customs or taboos that I should be aware of in order to respect local customs and avoid potential dangers while visiting Bagan Sulamani Temple?


Yes, there are some specific cultural customs and taboos that travelers should be aware of when visiting Bagan Sulamani Temple in order to respect local customs and avoid potential dangers. These include removing shoes before entering the temple, dressing modestly, refraining from displaying public affection, and avoiding touching or pointing at religious statues or artifacts. It is also considered disrespectful to climb on or sit on top of any structures within the temple complex. Additionally, taking photographs without permission may be seen as invasive and disrespectful. It is important to research and understand the cultural customs of the local area before visiting so you can show proper respect while exploring Bagan Sulamani Temple.

17. Are there any fire hazards at or near the temple that visitors should be cautious of?


Yes, visitors should be cautious of any potential fire hazards at or near the temple. This could include lit candles or incense, open flames from religious rituals, faulty electrical wiring, and flammable decorations. Visitors should follow all safety precautions and instructions provided by the temple staff to avoid any accidents or injuries.

18. How can I ensure my personal belongings and valuables stay secure while I am exploring the temple?


There are a few ways to ensure the security of your personal belongings and valuables while exploring a temple. Firstly, you can carry only essential items with you and leave valuable items at home or in a secure location, such as a hotel safe. If you must bring valuable items with you, consider investing in a money belt or hidden pouch to keep them close and out of sight.

Another option is to use lockers or storage facilities provided by the temple or nearby businesses. Make sure to use sturdy locks and keep any keys or combinations on your person at all times.

If possible, try to explore the temple with a small group or partner and take turns keeping an eye on each other’s belongings. This can also be helpful for taking photos without worrying about leaving your belongings unattended.

Lastly, always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something seems off or unsafe, it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid bringing valuables with you while exploring the temple.

19. Are there any signs or instructions in place at the temple for safety purposes, such as emergency exits or evacuation routes?


Yes, there are usually signs and instructions in place at temples for safety purposes, including designated emergency exits and evacuation routes. These signs are important in case of an emergency situation and can help ensure the safety of all individuals inside the temple. It is important to follow these signs and instructions in case of any emergency.

20. Is it safe to hire a local guide to explore the temple, and how can I ensure their legitimacy?


The safety of hiring a local guide to explore a temple may vary depending on the specific location and situation. It is generally recommended to research and choose a licensed guide who is knowledgeable and experienced in the area. To ensure their legitimacy, you can ask for recommendations from trusted sources, verify their credentials, and confirm their identity before embarking on the tour.