The Golden Shwezigon Pagoda in Nyaung-U

Shwezigon Pagoda is located in Nyaung-U, near Bagan. It was built in the 11th century.

From a large central gold leaf-gilded bell-shaped stupa radiate a number of smaller temples and shrines. The stupa is solid, and legend has it that it enshrines a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha.

And if you’ve been to the World’s Largest Book in Mandalay, the stupa might look familiar–the central stupa at Kuthodaw Pagoda is modeled after Shwezigon Pagoda. And, in fact, Shwezigon Pagoda serves as the model of several other pagodas in the region.

Photos of Shwezigon Pagoda

More About Shwezigon Pagoda

• Commissioned by King Anawrahta, the founder of the Pagan Empire
• Construction began during King Anawrahta’s reign and completed during the reign of his son, King Kyansittha
• Houses important Buddha relics, including a tooth and frontal bone
• Designed as a prototype for Burmese stupas, with a circular gold leaf-gilded stupa atop square and rectangular terraces
• Features terra-cotta tiles and stone pillar with Mon language inscriptions
• The Shwezigon Festival is held annually in December (9th month of the Burmese calendar)
• Located on the south bank of the Irrawaddy River, at the edge of Nyaung U village
• The temple complex includes smaller pagodas, shrines, and statues of the Buddha
• Entrance guarded by large statues of chinthes (mythical lions) and makaras (sea creatures from Hindu mythology)
• The main entrance gate features sculptures of the four previous Buddhas: Kassapa, Konagamana, Kakusandha, and Gautama
• The pagoda has undergone several renovations due to natural calamities, such as earthquakes
• The central stairway features sculptures of ancient nat spirits, highlighting the blend of Theravada Buddhism and local beliefs

The Shwezigon Pagoda is a stunning example of Burmese architecture, featuring a gold leaf-gilded stupa and ornate decorations. Located in Nyaung-U, near the ancient city of Bagan, the pagoda dates back to the 11th century and holds significant religious and historical importance. As a prototype for Burmese stupas, the Shwezigon Pagoda’s design has influenced countless other temples throughout Myanmar. It is believed to house sacred relics of Gautama Buddha, including a tooth and a frontal bone.

The temple complex comprises several smaller pagodas, shrines, and statues of the Buddha, all set within a walled enclosure. The entrance is guarded by large statues of chinthes (mythical lions) and makaras (sea creatures from Hindu mythology), while the main entrance gate features sculptures of the four previous Buddhas: Kassapa, Konagamana, Kakusandha, and Gautama. Visitors can explore the intricate carvings, sculptures, and glazed terracotta plaques depicting the Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha’s previous lives.

The Shwezigon Pagoda also plays host to an annual festival in December (the 9th month of the Burmese calendar), which attracts locals and pilgrims alike. During this time, the temple is a bustling hub of religious and cultural activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Myanmar’s rich traditions and heritage.

What’s Nearby to Shwezigon Pagoda

• Ananda Temple
• Thatbyinnyu Temple
• Sulamani Temple
• Htilominlo Temple
• Bagan Archaeological Museum
• Mani Sithu Market

How to Get to Shwezigon Pagoda

The Shwezigon Pagoda is located in the Nyaung-U region of Myanmar, near the ancient city of Bagan. The nearest major airport is Mandalay International Airport (MDL), approximately 180 kilometers away. Nyaung-U also has an airport, but it’s a much smaller airport that only caters to domestic flights and smaller planes.

What to Know Before You Go

Like so many Burmese words transliterated into English, you’ll come across variations. It’s also sometimes written as Shwe-zi-gon Pagoda.

If you’re flying to Bagan, you’ll almost certainly be flying into Nyaung-U Airport. The airport is close to town, making this an easy first stop en route to Bagan.

Shwezigon Pagoda FAQs