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Shwezigon Pagoda

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Shwezigon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))

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The Shwezigon Pagoda in Nyaung-U, near Bagan, is one of Myanmar's most sacred sites and serves as the prototype for classical Burmese stupa architecture. Its construction began around 1059 under King Anawrahta, the founder of the Bagan Empire, and was completed in 1090 during the reign of King Kyansittha. The pagoda is renowned for enshrining significant relics, including a frontal bone and a tooth of the Buddha. The gilded bell-shaped structure rests on three square terraces decorated with intricate terracotta plaques depicting scenes from the Jataka tales. A unique feature of the site is the official inclusion of shrines for the 37 traditional Nats (spirits), illustrating the fusion of indigenous beliefs with Buddhism. Despite recurring earthquakes, notably in 1975, the pagoda has been consistently restored to its original splendor. It remains a lively spiritual center, hosting one of the country's largest pagoda festivals during the Burmese month of Nadaw.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222428323230292929282623
Rain mm71916486971645362107

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Shwezigon Pagoda is open to visitors and can be viewed from outside and inside the main stupa compound. There is typically no entrance fee, but donations are welcome.
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Typical hours
The pagoda is usually open from dawn until dusk every day. During full moon days and festivals, it may stay open later for devotees.
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Photography
Photography is permitted throughout the site, but be mindful of worshippers. The golden stupa makes a striking subject, especially against the sunset sky.
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Time needed
Plan about 30 minutes to an hour to walk around the pagoda and its surrounding shrines. The site is compact but rich in historical details.
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Combine with
Combine with a visit to nearby Bagan temples such as Ananda Pahto or Thatbyinnyu Temple. The Nyaung-U market is also worth a short stop.
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Getting there
The pagoda is located in Nyaung-U town, easily accessible by bicycle or e-bike from Bagan. It is a short walk from the main road.
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Insider tip
Visit in the late afternoon to see the golden stupa glow in the warm light. The site is less crowded at that time, offering a peaceful experience.

Geography

Coordinates
21.19560, 94.89880

Facts

  • Construction was initiated in 1059 by King Anawrahta.
  • King Kyansittha completed the building works in the year 1090.
  • The pagoda houses a replica of the sacred tooth relic from Sri Lanka.
  • A total of 550 terracotta plaques illustrate the Jataka stories.
  • The grounds include shrines for Myanmar's 37 traditional Nats.
  • Following the 1975 earthquake, the stupa underwent extensive renovation.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Nyaung-UNyaung-U<1 km · NEExplore →
Ananda TempleAnanda Temple3 km · SExplore →
Chauk Oil FieldChauk Oil Field9 km · SExplore →
Mann Oil FieldMann Oil Field10 km · SEExplore →
MagwayMagway10 km · EExplore →
Letpadaung Copper MineLetpadaung Copper Mine21 km · NWExplore →
PakokkuPakokku22 km · NExplore →
MonywaMonywa28 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Shwezigon Pagoda (6)

Tuyin Taung Pagoda📍 landmark

A hilltop pagoda overlooking the Bagan plains, housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.

Shwezigon Pagoda📍 landmark

This 11th-century golden stupa in Nyaung-U served as the prototype for nearly all later Burmese pagodas.

Thanaka Museum🏛 museum

The world's only museum dedicated to thanaka, the yellowish cosmetic paste made from the bark of local trees.

Paung Le Hpaya🏺 historical

The ruins of this ancient sanctuary are part of the extensive archaeological park of Bagan.

205🏺 historical

A historic monument in the Bagan archaeological zone, witnessing the former splendor of the temple city.

229🏺 historical

One of the numerous smaller pagoda ruins in Bagan that define the landscape of the ancient capital.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes Shwezigon Pagoda special?
It was the prototype for many golden pagodas throughout Myanmar.
Where is it located?
It is located in Nyaung-U, part of the Bagan archaeological zone.
Is it very crowded?
Yes, it is one of the most visited temples in Bagan.
What should I see there?
The gilded stupa and the many small shrines all around.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon when it is not too hot.
Shwezigon Pagoda: where is it located?
Shwezigon Pagoda is located in Myanmar (Burma).
Shwezigon Pagoda: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tuyin Taung Pagoda, Shwezigon Pagoda, Thanaka Museum.
Shwezigon Pagoda: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Shwezigon Pagoda: why is it worth visiting?
The Shwezigon Pagoda in Nyaung-U, near Bagan, is one of Myanmar's most sacred sites and serves as the prototype for classical Burmese stupa architecture.
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