Shwezigon Pagoda
ရွှေစည်းခုံဘုရား
A golden stupa begun by King Anawrahta, the prototype of the Burmese bell-shaped gilded pagoda. It enshrines a replica of the Buddha's tooth relic and remains one of the most popular pilgrimage sites.
Shwezigon Pagoda stands on the west side of Nyaung-U town. King Anawrahta of the Pagan Kingdom began building it in the 11th century, and King Kyanzittha completed it. It is said to enshrine relics of the Buddha's tooth and collarbone. It served as the model for the bell-shaped gilded stupas that later appeared across Burma, including the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. The stupa is covered in gold leaf, and around it are stepped square terraces and four entrance corridors. The compound also contains shrines to the Nat spirits, reflecting the blend of Buddhism with local belief. Unlike most ancient temples on the plains, which are no longer in use, this is still an active religious site, with monks and devotees coming and going from morning until evening. You must remove your shoes and socks before entering the compound. The marble floor is scorching at midday, so visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Cover your shoulders and knees. It can be combined with the Nyaung-U morning market.
Opening hours
Approx. 05:00–21:00
Nearby sights
- Nyaung-U Market
- Htilominlo Temple
- Upali Thein
- Sulamani Temple
- Payathonzu Temple
- Ananda Temple
- Lemyethna Temple
- Pyathada Temple