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Shwedagon Pagoda

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Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))

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The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is the most sacred Buddhist structure in Myanmar and a symbol of national identity. Legend has it that it was built over 2,500 years ago to enshrine eight hair relics of Gautama Buddha. The massive stupa today reaches a height of approximately 99 meters and is entirely covered in genuine gold leaf, while its crown is encrusted with thousands of diamonds and rubies. Geographically, the pagoda sits atop Singuttara Hill, dominating the city's skyline. Over the centuries, the complex has been renovated and enlarged several times following earthquakes and wars, with its current form largely dating back to the 15th century. The site consists of the central stupa surrounded by numerous smaller pagodas, prayer halls, and statues. Shwedagon is not only a place of spiritual devotion but also a venue for historical political events and a hub of cultural life in Myanmar.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252830333128282727282725
Rain mm811624127225280247164118207

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Shwedagon Pagoda is open to visitors and can be explored both inside and outside the main stupa. An entrance fee is usually charged, and modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected.
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Typical hours
The pagoda typically opens from early morning until late evening every day. During major Buddhist festivals, the hours may be extended to accommodate pilgrims.
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Photography
Photography is generally allowed throughout the complex, but avoid using flash inside the main prayer halls. Be respectful of worshippers and do not photograph them without permission.
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Time needed
Plan to spend at least two hours to walk around the main platform and see the various shrines. Many visitors stay longer to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at different times of day.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the Botataung Pagoda along the Yangon River or the Kandawgyi Lake for a scenic evening walk. The National Museum of Myanmar is also within a short taxi ride.
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Getting there
The pagoda is easily reached by taxi from anywhere in Yangon, with several entrances around the base. Public buses also stop near the southern and eastern gates.
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Insider tip
Visit just before sunset to see the golden stupa reflect the changing light. The view from the top platform during dusk is unforgettable.

Geography

Coordinates
16.79840, 96.14950

Facts

  • The pagoda stands approximately 99 meters tall and is covered in tons of gold.
  • The 'Sainbu' diamond at the very top weighs 76 carats.
  • King Dhammazedi's bell was famously lost in the river during the 17th century.
  • Queen Shinsawbu gave the pagoda its current shape in the 15th century.
  • There are four main entrances, each guarded by mythological Chinthe lions.
  • The complex includes a total of 64 smaller pagodas surrounding the main stupa.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Inya LakeInya Lake<1 km · WExplore →
Kandawgyi LakeKandawgyi Lake2 km · NExplore →
Taukkyan War CemeteryTaukkyan War Cemetery3 km · SWExplore →
Hlawga National ParkHlawga National Park5 km · SWExplore →
Thilawa Special Economic ZoneThilawa Special Economic Zone13 km · NExplore →
Bago YomaBago Yoma21 km · WExplore →
Naypyidaw Water Fountain ParkNaypyidaw Water Fountain Park35 km · WExplore →
NaypyidawNaypyidaw35 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Shwedagon Pagoda (6)

Buddha's Foot Print📍 landmark

This intricate stone carving attraction depicts the sacred footprint of the Buddha, drawing pilgrims for veneration.

Maha Buddhavamsa Museum🏛 museum

This museum in Yangon focuses on the detailed Buddhist chronicles and life stories of the Buddhas.

Shwedagon Paya📍 landmark

The Shwedagon Pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist stupa in Myanmar, famously covered in gold plates.

♿

Memorial to the Fallen Heroes🏺 historical

The monument commemorates the fallen heroes of Myanmar, standing as a historical tribute near the pagoda complex.

Jade Buddha Image📍 landmark

An impressive Buddhist statue carved entirely out of fine local Myanmar jade.

Ling Jiou Mountain Intl meditation center⛪ religious

This international meditation center is a spiritual retreat fostering Buddhist mindfulness and tranquility.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Shwedagon Pagoda?
One of the most significant Buddhist sanctuaries and landmarks of the country.
What are the opening hours?
The pagoda is open daily from early morning until evening.
What clothing is appropriate?
Shoulders and knees must be covered; shoes must be removed.
When is the best time to visit?
Visiting at sunset is particularly impressive.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, an entry fee is charged for foreign tourists.
Shwedagon Pagoda: where is it located?
Shwedagon Pagoda is located in Myanmar (Burma).
Shwedagon Pagoda: what is there to see?
Highlights include Buddha's Foot Print, Maha Buddhavamsa Museum, Shwedagon Paya.
Shwedagon Pagoda: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Shwedagon Pagoda: why is it worth visiting?
The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is the most sacred Buddhist structure in Myanmar and a symbol of national identity.
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Nearby cities

Yangon — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Yangon
The largest city in Myanmar and its former economic and cultural center.

History & landmarks

Karaweik Palace — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Karaweik Palace
A distinctive concrete structure in the shape of two mythological birds on Kandawgyi Lake, serving as a venue.

Nature

Inya Lake — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Inya Lake
The largest artificial lake in Yangon, a popular recreation area surrounded by parks and villas.

More places

Bogyoke Aung San Museum — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Bogyoke Aung San Museum
The former residence of General Aung San, the founder of modern Myanmar, which now serves as a historical museum.
Bogyoke Park — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Bogyoke Park
A tranquil urban park in Yangon, located near the waterfront and the famous Bogyoke Aung San Market.
People&#39;s Square and Park — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
People's Square and Park
A large public park in Yangon at the base of the Shwedagon Pagoda, offering green lawns and fountains.
Yangon Zoological Gardens — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Yangon Zoological Gardens
The oldest and second-largest zoo in Myanmar, home to a variety of Asian and African animal species.
Myanmar Industrial Port — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Myanmar Industrial Port
A privately operated container terminal in Yangon that plays a crucial role in Myanmar's logistics chain and serves international cargo s…
Sule Pagoda — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Sule Pagoda
A historical stupa located in the heart of downtown Yangon, which served as the center of British colonial urban planning.
Maha Bandula Park — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Maha Bandula Park
A public park in central Yangon, surrounded by colonial buildings and named after a famous Burmese general.
Independence Monument — Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar (Burma))
Independence Monument
A tall, white obelisk in Yangon commemorating Myanmar's independence from British rule in 1948.