The Shwemawdaw Pagoda, often referred to as the Golden God Temple, is a revered Buddhist stupa in Bago, Myanmar. Standing at an impressive height of 125 meters (410 feet) including its spire, it is the tallest pagoda in Myanmar and is considered one of the most sacred sites in the country. Its name, "Shwemawdaw," translates to "Golden God," reflecting both its splendor and its importance as a spiritual center.

The pagoda is known for housing two hair relics of the Buddha, which were brought from India by two merchant brothers. The Shwemawdaw Pagoda is an iconic landmark of Bago, and its architectural beauty, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for both pilgrims and tourists.

Features

Architectural Highlights

• Height: At 125 meters, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda is not only the tallest in Myanmar but also possibly one of the tallest stupas in the world.
• Stupa Design: The pagoda features a bell-shaped stupa with a golden spire. The base of the pagoda is adorned with detailed carvings, while the stupa itself is covered in gold leaf. Its imposing and elegant design reflects traditional Myanmar Buddhist architecture.
• Relic Chamber: At its core, the pagoda houses the two strands of Buddha's hair, making it a highly revered site for pilgrims. These relics are enshrined in the upper chamber, which can be reached via a series of steps leading to the pagoda's upper platform.

Iconic Spire

The hti spire (umbrella-like structure) at the top of the pagoda is adorned with jewels and adds to its majestic appearance. The spire has been rebuilt and renovated over the centuries, including a significant restoration effort during the reign of King Bayinnaung in the 16th century.

Surrounding Stupas and Shrines

Around the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, you will find smaller stupas and shrines dedicated to various Buddhist deities and figures. These smaller stupas were constructed during different historical periods, especially during the reigns of various kings who patronized the pagoda.

Annual Festival

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda Festival is a major religious and cultural event that takes place annually during the month of Tagu in the Burmese lunar calendar (usually in April). The festival lasts for 10 days and includes religious ceremonies, processions, and offerings. Pilgrims from all over Myanmar come to visit the pagoda during this time, and the site becomes a center for religious fervor and celebration.

History

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda has a long and storied history that spans over several centuries. While the original date of construction is uncertain, it is believed to have been founded during the lifetime of the Buddha in the 6th century BCE. However, the first historical records of the pagoda date from the 14th century.

Founding Legend

According to legend, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda was built by two merchant brothers, Kullasala and Mahasala, who received two strands of the Buddha's hair as a gift from the Buddha himself. Upon returning to Pegu (now Bago), they built the original 22-meter-high stupa to enshrine these sacred relics.

Reconstruction and Expansion

Over the centuries, the pagoda was damaged and rebuilt multiple times due to earthquakes and other natural disasters. Key events in the history of the pagoda include:

• 1390: King Razadarit of the Hanthawaddy Kingdom added 160 small stupas around the main pagoda.
• 1470s: King Dhammaceti and Queen Shinsawbu renovated the pagoda, bringing in 50,000 limestone slabs from Sri Lanka for the restoration.
• 1564: After an earthquake caused significant damage, King Bayinnaung of the Toungoo Kingdom made repairs and installed a new hti spire.
• 1796: Under King Bodawpaya, the pagoda was raised to 90 meters (295 feet) and the spire was further improved.
• 1912-1917: Multiple earthquakes, including a major one in 1917, caused extensive damage to the structure.
• 1930: A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck, severely damaging the pagoda, which led to a complete reconstruction effort beginning in 1951 and completed by 1954.

Restoration and Modern Day

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda, as seen today, is the result of decades of reconstruction and restoration. The most recent work in the 1950s established the current height and design of the stupa. Over the centuries, the pagoda has endured wars, natural disasters, and political changes, yet it remains an enduring symbol of Myanmar's Buddhist heritage.

Entrance Tickets

• Ticket Prices:
  • For local visitors, there is usually no fee.
  • Foreign tourists are generally required to pay an entrance fee ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 Kyat (approximately 2 to 4 USD).
• Opening Hours: The pagoda is open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Note: It's advisable to confirm the current fee structure and timings with local authorities before visiting, as these details may change.

Location and Address

• Location: The Shwemawdaw Pagoda is located in Bago, Bago Region, Myanmar.
• Address:
  • Shwemawdaw Pagoda, Bago Township, Bago Region, Myanmar.
  • It is about 2 kilometers east of Bago's central bus station.

How to Get There (Transportation)

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda is easily accessible from Bago city center and can be reached by several modes of transport:

From Yangon to Bago:

• By Bus: There are regular buses from Yangon (approximately 70 km south of Bago) to Bago, which take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Bago, you can hire a taxi or take a short local bus to reach the pagoda.
• By Train: The train ride from Yangon to Bago takes approximately 2 hours. It is an affordable but slower option.
• By Car: The most convenient way to travel to Bago from Yangon is by private car or taxi, taking about 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

Local Transportation in Bago:

• Taxi: Once in Bago, taxis are readily available and can take you directly to the Shwemawdaw Pagoda.
• Trishaw: In Bago, trishaws (rickshaws) are a popular mode of local transport, and you can easily hire one to visit the pagoda.
• Walking: The pagoda is only about 2 kilometers from the central bus station, so if you're feeling adventurous, you could walk to the pagoda.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Shwemawdaw Pagoda is during the cooler months of November to February, when the weather is more pleasant. If you want to experience the Tagu Festival, plan your visit during April. The festival includes elaborate ceremonies and is a great cultural experience.
• Dress Code: As the Shwemawdaw Pagoda is a religious site, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered, and remove your shoes before entering the pagoda itself.
• Avoiding Crowds: If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The peak times are usually during religious events and festivals.
• Pilgrim Etiquette: The pagoda is an active pilgrimage site, so it's important to show respect. Offering flowers, lighting candles, and making small donations are common practices. Visitors should walk around the pagoda in a clockwise direction as a sign of respect.
• Photography: Photography is allowed at the pagoda, but be respectful of worshippers and their practices. It's best to avoid taking photos during the main prayer times or when ceremonies are being conducted.

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda is an exceptional site for both its architectural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Myanmar.