Shwezigon Pagoda: A Sacred Marvel of Myanmar
Explore the majestic Shwezigon Pagoda, a sacred Buddhist site in Nyaung-U, showcasing stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
The Shwezigon Pagoda, located in Nyaung-U, is one of Myanmar's most revered religious landmarks, known for its stunning golden stupa that gleams under the sun. This architectural marvel was built in the 11th century by King Anawrahta, the founder of the Pagan Kingdom, and is considered a prototype for many stupas in the region. The pagoda stands at an impressive height and is surrounded by numerous smaller stupas and shrines, making it a central point of worship for locals and a must-visit for tourists. Visitors can explore the intricately decorated halls and observe the vibrant ceremonies that take place throughout the day, offering a genuine glimpse into the spiritual life of the Burmese people. The pagoda is particularly enchanting at sunrise and sunset when the golden dome reflects the warm hues of the sky, creating a picturesque scene that is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The surrounding area also features beautiful gardens and pathways that invite leisurely strolls. For those interested in the history and culture of Buddhism, Shwezigon Pagoda provides a wealth of information through its numerous inscriptions and murals. Guided tours are available, enhancing the experience with stories of the pagoda's significance and the legends behind its construction. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, cultural enrichment, or simply a stunning view, Shwezigon Pagoda offers an unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Myanmar's rich heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a place of worship.
- Don't forget your camera; the views at sunrise and sunset are breathtaking.
- Take some time to explore the surrounding smaller stupas and the vibrant market nearby.
A brief summary to Shwezigon Pagoda
- Nyaung-U, MM
- +956160262
- Monday 5 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-9 pm
- Thursday 5 am-9 pm
- Friday 5 am-9 pm
- Saturday 5 am-9 pm
- Sunday 5 am-9 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head to Nyaung-U, which is the nearest town to Shwezigon Pagoda. From the center of Nyaung-U, take the main road heading north towards Old Bagan. The pagoda is approximately 8 kilometers from Nyaung-U. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to Shwezigon Pagoda, as it is one of the most prominent landmarks in the area. There is usually ample parking available near the pagoda.
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Taxi
For those preferring not to drive, you can easily hire a taxi from Nyaung-U. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey. The taxi ride to Shwezigon Pagoda should take about 15-20 minutes, and the cost typically ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 Kyat depending on negotiation and time of day.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
If you're taking public transportation, head to the local bus station in Nyaung-U. Look for buses heading to Old Bagan. Inform the bus driver or conductor that you want to get off at Shwezigon Pagoda. The fare is usually around 1,000 Kyat, and the journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on the surroundings to catch your stop, as it may not be explicitly announced.
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Bicycle Rental
Another option for the more adventurous travelers is to rent a bicycle in Nyaung-U. Many guesthouses and rental shops offer bicycles for around 1,000 to 3,000 Kyat per day. From the center of Nyaung-U, follow the main road north towards Old Bagan. The ride to Shwezigon Pagoda is about 8 kilometers and is mostly flat, making it a pleasant ride. Be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated!
Attractions Nearby to Shwezigon Pagoda
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Lion Gate
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Shwe Pyi Nann Thanakha Museum
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Balloons over Bagan
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Oriental Balloning
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Gu Byauk Gyi
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Gubyauknge Temple (Wetkyi-In)
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Gu Byauk Nge
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Mani Sithu Market
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Hgnet Pyit Taung Temple
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Alodawpyae Pagoda
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Htilominlo Pahto
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Bulethi Pagoda
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Khaymingha Pagoda
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Bagan Viewing Tower (Bagan Nan Myint Tower)
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Anyathiyan Culture PaleolithicSite
Landmarks nearby to Shwezigon Pagoda
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Weather Spoon's Restaurant and Bar
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Golden Myanmar Guest House
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One Bagan Tours
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Alodawpyae Secret Pagoda Bagan
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Bagan Nan Myint Tower
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Yin Ma Na ယင်မနားဘုရား
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ပုဂံမြို့အဝင်မုခ်ဦး
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Bagan Myaw Phaya
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Wooden temple
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Sin Phyu Shin Temple
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မြောက်ဘက်နန်းမြို့ရိုး
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Bagan
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ဆွေတော်မျိုးတော် (Sunrise Hill Bagan)
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Lemyethna Temple
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Bagan, Myanmar Ancient Ruin