Botahtaung Pagoda: A Spiritual Gem in Yangon
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual richness of Botahtaung Pagoda, a must-see Buddhist temple along the Yangon River.
A brief summary to Botahtaung Pagoda
- Q59C+9QQ, Yangon, MM
- Visit website
- Monday 4 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 4 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 4 am-8 pm
- Thursday 4 am-8 pm
- Friday 4 am-8 pm
- Saturday 4 am-8 pm
- Sunday 4 am-8 pm
Botahtaung Pagoda, located along the picturesque Yangon River, is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in Myanmar. This magnificent pagoda, which dates back to the 15th century, is not only a spiritual hub for locals but also a captivating destination for tourists. The pagoda is renowned for its unique architecture, featuring a golden stupa that gleams under the sun and intricate carvings that tell tales of the Buddha's journey. Visitors are often enchanted by the peaceful ambiance that envelops the site, making it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. As you step inside, you will be greeted by a stunning interior that houses relics, including strands of hair believed to belong to Buddha himself. The temple grounds are adorned with vibrant flowers and offerings from devotees, enhancing the serene environment. Strolling through the grounds, you can capture breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline, especially at sunset when the pagoda is illuminated by warm golden light. Botahtaung Pagoda is not just about beauty; it also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Myanmar. Engage with the friendly locals who are often eager to share stories and traditions associated with the temple. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace or simply a place to appreciate stunning craftsmanship, Botahtaung Pagoda is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple; cover your shoulders and knees out of respect.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the pagoda and surrounding scenery are incredibly photogenic.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and significance of the pagoda.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the expansive temple grounds.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Sule Pagoda, head south on Maha Bandoola Road. Continue straight until you reach Anawrahta Road. Turn right onto Anawrahta Road and walk until you reach the intersection with Botahtaung Road. Turn left onto Botahtaung Road and continue straight for about 1 kilometer. Botahtaung Pagoda will be on your right, just after you cross the bridge over the Yangon River.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From the Shwedagon Pagoda, walk to the nearest bus stop. Take bus number 34 towards Botahtaung. The ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Get off at the Botahtaung Pagoda Bus Stop. From there, the pagoda is just a short walk. Head east towards the river, and you will see the entrance to Botahtaung Pagoda.
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Walking
If you are near the Yangon River, walk along the riverfront promenade. Head south towards the Botahtaung Pagoda. You will see the pagoda towering in the distance. As you approach, cross the road and enter the pagoda complex. The entrance is well marked.
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Public Transportation (Taxi or Ride-Hailing)
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or a ride-hailing service like Grab. Simply enter 'Botahtaung Pagoda' as your destination. The driver will take you to the entrance of the pagoda. Make sure to confirm that you are heading to the correct location, as there are many pagodas in Yangon.
Attractions Nearby to Botahtaung Pagoda
- Botahtaung Phoe Phoe Gyi
- Arch Gateway to Botahtaung Pagoda
- ဗိုလ်တစ်ထောင်ဆိပ်ကမ်း
- Shri Bhadrakali Amman Temple
- Armenian Apostolic Church
- Botahtaung View Point Park
- The Secretariat Yangon
- Rural Development Bank
- Yangon Heritage Trust
- Lokanat Building လောကနတ်အဆောက်အအုံ (Former Sofaer & Co. Restaurant)
- Nanthida Harbor
- 40th Street Mosque
- HLA DAY
- Myanmar Amber Museum
- Sa Ba Street Food Tours