Thatbyinnyu Temple, one of the tallest and most impressive monuments in Bagan, Myanmar, holds a prominent place in both the historical and architectural heritage of the region. Built during the Bagan Empire, the temple stands as a symbol of the empire’s commitment to Theravada Buddhism and remains a vital site for both religious worship and tourism.

Overview

• Name: Thatbyinnyu Temple
• Location: Bagan Archaeological Area, Myanmar
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes (Bagan Archaeological Area)
• Height: 66 meters (217 feet), making it the tallest temple in Bagan.
• Constructed: 1144–1151, during the reign of King Sithu I
• Architectural Style: Burmese, brick masonry with stucco coating
• Significance: Symbol of Bagan’s artistic and spiritual achievements, reflecting innovative architecture and religious dedication.

Thatbyinnyu Temple stands as a testimony to the grandeur of the Bagan Kingdom. It has undergone multiple restorations but remains a quintessential example of Bagan architecture.

Features

Architectural Design

• Structure: Thatbyinnyu is a five-story brick masonry building with a central tower (sikhara) at its pinnacle, topped by a finial (hti). The exterior is covered in white stucco, and stone is used in pavements, thresholds, and structural reinforcements.
• Terraces: The temple features a series of receding square terraces on both the lower and upper levels. Stupa obelisks sit at the corners of each terrace, adding to the temple's monumental appearance.
• Entry Points: The east side of the temple includes a large entry hall (24 ft × 38 ft), while the north, south, and west sides feature smaller protrusions and additional entry points.
• Interior: The interior boasts pointed arches in the spacious hallways and barrel vaults in other sections. The two tiers of windows in each level allow abundant light to illuminate the temple’s interior. Murals depicting the Buddha’s footprints and other religious symbols adorn the ceilings, especially the western porch.

Purpose

• Monastery and Library: The temple was used as a monastery for monks and as a library to hold sacred texts and religious relics. It also housed Buddha images and served as a site for meditation and teaching.

Structural Height

• Total Height: 66 meters (217 feet), making it the tallest temple in Bagan.
• Core Tower: The central tower (sikhara) measures 98.5 feet (30 meters) on each side.

History

Construction

Thatbyinnyu Temple was constructed during the reign of King Sithu I, who was instrumental in the development of the Bagan Kingdom. The king is believed to have funded the construction with boatloads of rubies, highlighting his devotion to Buddhism. The construction began around 1144/45, and the temple was completed by 1150/51.

The temple was intended to symbolize Bagan’s political power, as well as its spiritual and intellectual commitment to Theravada Buddhism. It represents a shift in architectural style from the earlier Mon influences to the more robust and distinctive Burmese design, which would later characterize other important Bagan temples like the Sulamani and Htilominlo.

Earthquake Damage and Restoration

• 1975 Earthquake: The temple sustained significant damage during a 1975 earthquake, including cracks in the walls and damage to the Buddha statues and corner stupas. The damage was repaired by 1979.
• 2016 Earthquake: Another major earthquake in 2016 caused extensive damage, including cracks in the masonry across all floors. Restoration work began soon after with Chinese technical and financial assistance, and a nine-year restoration project was initiated in 2019. The restoration efforts are expected to continue until 2028.

The Thatbyinnyu Temple was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2019, highlighting its importance as a cultural and historical monument.

Entrance Tickets

• Ticket Required: Yes, a ticket is required to enter the Bagan Archaeological Area, which includes access to Thatbyinnyu Temple and other nearby temples and pagodas.
• Ticket Prices: Tickets to the Bagan Archaeological Area generally cost around US$25 (prices may vary slightly, so check current rates before visiting). The ticket provides access to all the major monuments and temples within the Bagan Archaeological Area for a period of 5 days.

Location and Address

• Address: Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan Archaeological Area, Bagan, Myanmar
• Coordinates: 21°10′34″N 94°52′36″E

The temple is located just inside the southeastern corner of the ancient Bagan city wall, an area rich with archaeological monuments and Buddhist temples. The temple is easy to access from Bagan's main areas of interest.

How to Get There (Transportation)

By Air

• The nearest airport to Thatbyinnyu Temple is Nyaung U Airport (NYU), which is located about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the temple. The airport serves domestic flights from major cities in Myanmar, including Yangon and Mandalay.

By Car

• From Nyaung U Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a private car to the temple. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
• From Old Bagan: Thatbyinnyu Temple is located about 1 km from the heart of Old Bagan, making it a short ride by bike, tuk-tuk, or taxi.
• By Bicycle: Many visitors opt to rent bicycles or electric bikes to explore the Bagan Archaeological Area, including Thatbyinnyu Temple. The area is relatively flat, making cycling a popular and enjoyable mode of transport.

By Bus

• Bagan is well-connected by bus to other cities in Myanmar, including Yangon, Mandalay, and Inle Lake. Once in Bagan, public transport or private transport can take you to the temple.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Weather: The best time to visit Bagan is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid. The hot season (March to May) can be extremely hot, while the rainy season (June to October) may limit outdoor exploration.
• Early Morning or Sunset: To avoid the crowds and enjoy the temple in a more serene atmosphere, visit early in the morning or during sunset when the golden light highlights the temple's architectural features.

What to Bring

• Appropriate Clothing: As a religious site, modest clothing is required. Long pants or skirts and covered shoulders are recommended.
• Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water, as the sun can be intense. Snacks are also advisable, especially if you're planning to explore the area for several hours.
• Camera: Bagan’s temples, including Thatbyinnyu, provide incredible photo opportunities, so make sure to bring a camera or smartphone for stunning shots.

Nearby Attractions

• Ananda Temple: A short distance from Thatbyinnyu, this is one of the most famous and well-preserved temples in Bagan.
• Sulamani Temple: Another must-see temple in the Bagan Archaeological Area, known for its beautiful frescoes and architecture.
• Shwesandaw Pagoda: Known for its panoramic views of the Bagan plain, it's one of the tallest pagodas in Bagan.

Respect the Local Culture

• Silent Reverence: As a place of worship, be mindful of the peaceful atmosphere and refrain from loud noise or behavior that may disturb others.
• Take Care with Restoration Zones: Some parts of the temple may be under renovation or closed off, so respect the restoration work and avoid restricted areas.

Thatbyinnyu Temple offers not just a historical and architectural experience but also a spiritual journey through Myanmar’s cultural and religious heritage. Whether you're an avid traveler, history enthusiast, or spiritual seeker, a visit to this iconic temple is a must.