Shwedagon Pagoda
★ 4.9🇲🇲 YangonSuggested visit 1-2 hoursBest season November to February, dry and clear
Religious siteHistoric siteArchitecture
The holiest pagoda in Myanmar, its gold-plated stupa as dazzling in daylight as under floodlight.
Overview
Traditionally founded in the 6th century BC, Shwedagon's stupa rises about 99 metres and is covered in tonnes of gold leaf, its crown set with thousands of gems and a large diamond. Around its base stand dozens of smaller stupas and shrines, and the marble platform holds numerous Buddha images. Worshippers pour water over images at the station matching their birth day. Its mood is most solemn in the evening light.
History
Traditionally founded in the 6th century BC and rebuilt and raised several times, it reached its present height in the 15th century under Queen Shin Sawbu and remains the most important Buddhist site in Myanmar.
Highlights
- •The 99-metre gilded stupa
- •The gems and diamond on the crown
- •The marble platform and birth-day bathing
- •Evening and night lighting
Practical tips
- •Shoes must be removed; the platform can be hot underfoot
- •Cover shoulders and knees and walk clockwise
Practical information
- Best time
- November-February
- Tickets
- About MMK 10,000 for foreign visitors
- Opening hours
- 4:00-22:00
- Local food
- Mohinga, tea leaf salad, Shan noodles
- Getting around
- In central Yangon, about 15 minutes by road from the centre.
- Visa
- A visa is required and an e-visa is available; confirm the latest entry rules in advance.
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