Located in Myanmar, the legendary Shwemawdaw Pagoda is a staggering monument. This golden temple stands at a whopping 114 meters—a skyrocketing miracle that's seen a millennium unfold before it. With every glow of dawn and dusk, its resplendent stupa catches the celestial fire of the sun, becoming a lighthouse for pilgrims and camera-clicking explorers alike. Two hairs of the Buddha are said to rest here, infusing your travel tales with a mystique only time-honoured relics can provide.

Approaching the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the hum and buzz of the everyday fade, and you step into an oasis of spiritual serenity. The air tingles with reverence and carries the soft chimes of temple bells that have whispered to the winds since ages past.

Be prepared to don attire that whispers respect for the local ethos by covering your knees and shoulders.  To wander barefoot on the cool, sacred tiles as the local devotees do is to truly walk in the footsteps of timeless tradition. Listen closely, for every step within these hallowed grounds is a lyrical verse in the great poem of Myanmar’s spiritual heritage.

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Table of Content

1. History of Shwemawdaw Pagoda
2. Tallest Pagoda in Myanmar
3. What is Inside Shwedagon Pagoda
4. Tickets & Entrance Fees
5. How to Get to Shwemawdaw Pagoda
6. Travel Tips
7. Contact Information

Exploring the Shwemawdaw Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar

Exploring the Shwemawdaw Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar

History of Shwemawdaw Pagoda

Are you ready to journey back more than 1,000 years into the depths of Myanmar's rich heritage?

Imagine this: over 2,500 years ago, the Enlightened One, Gautama Buddha himself, bestowed locks of his hair upon two Mon merchant brothers, Tissa and Mosara. Inspired by this ethereal gift and guided by their devotion, the brothers built the Shwemawdaw Pagoda to enshrine these venerated relics. Resting under the soaring ceiling of the Pagoda’s heart, these precious hairs silently imbue their surroundings with an undefinable energy – a moving spiritual presence that awakens the senses, stirs the soul, and whispers words of ancient wisdom as only the Buddha can.

Over the course of centuries, Shwemawdaw Pagoda encountered the benevolence of numerous monarchs, as well as steadfast devotees who were keen on seeing it rise to new heights — quite literally!

Each golden brick is a silent testament to the series of gildings and renovations bestowed upon it. But don't be fooled by its outward allure. Shwemawdaw Pagoda holds a few secrets up its towering sleeve, one being the seismic shocks it has admirably withstood over the centuries. This pagoda is not just a spellbinding sight to behold; it's also a resilient warrior.

Shwemawdaw Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar

Shwemawdaw Pagoda is also known as the Golden God Temple

Tallest Pagoda in Myanmar

Imagine yourself standing beneath the exalted edifice of the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, fondly referred to as the Great Golden God Pagoda. Its mighty stupa, shimmering with the unbroken dreams and passions of a millennium, reaches a dramatic 114 metres — an unrivalled feat that easily crowns it the tallest pagoda in Myanmar!

Step inside, absorb the tranquillity, and feel the spiritual pull of sacred Buddha relics. Admire the intricate Myanmar craftsmanship adorning every corner, from coloured-glass mosaics to stunning metalwork.

Shwemawdaw Pagoda is the tallest pagoda in Myanmar

What is Inside Shwedagon Pagoda

As you saunter through the entrancing gates of the Shwedagon Pagoda, you'll find yourself cocooned in an atmosphere brimming with the sacred echoes of Myanmar's soul. This isn't just the country's most iconic pagoda; it's a treasure trove housing relics of the Buddha himself – hairs, to be precise, lending this site its ineffable grace.

Buddhists from corners far and wide have walked this ground, venerating these sacred remnants that sit resplendent within the central stupa, an opulent structure embellished with gold leaf and thousands of precious stones that catch the light, casting a celestial glow that is almost otherworldly.

Delve deeper within this spiritual nucleus and you'll unearth a realm where the devout quietly meditate, their whispers rising in unison with the incense smoke, creating a tapestry of devotion that envelopes you. Surrounded by a multitude of temples, stupas, and statues, each corner you turn unfurls another chapter of the complex narrative that is Burmese Buddhism.

Intricate murals and exquisite carvings tell tales of the Buddha's past lives, while the gleam of gold and gems in the sunlight offers a haven of peace. Here, the delicate clink of temple bells mingles with the gentle chanting of the monks – a serenade for the senses, inviting you to pause and absorb the majesty bestowed upon this sacred site.

Intricate murals and exquisite carvings tell tales of the Buddha's past lives at the Shwemawdaw Pagoda

Tickets & Entrance Fees

What's the price of experiencing the mesmerising grandeur of Myanmar's tallest pagoda you ask? Just a quick exchange of 20,000 kyats, you're on your way to encounter the golden marvel that is the Shwemawdaw Pagoda.

As your feet tread the path of ancient pilgrims, prepare to be enchanted by the exquisite details of the glittering stupa and the meticulously carved reliefs. Each facet of this cultural gem isn't merely a spectacle for the eyes—it's a narrative intricately woven with threads of profound spirituality and rich heritage.

How to Get to Shwemawdaw Pagoda

To embark on a journey to the majestic Shwemawdaw Pagoda, you may choose from several transportation options from Yangon. One popular method is to hop on a train from Yangon Central Station to Bago. This route is highly recommended, as it offers a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel the required distance while allowing you to soak in the picturesque surroundings as you ride along.

Another alternative to reach Shwemawdaw Pagoda is by opting for a bus, taxi, or private car from Bagan. Each transportation mode appeals to different travellers based on their budget, preference, and time constraints. Following one of these routes, you'll arrive at the enchanting Shwemawdaw Pagoda and finally experience its grandeur, which lies at the heart of Myanmar's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

You can reach the Shwemawdaw Pagoda by train, bus, taxi, or private car

Travel Tips

A pro-tip from your mate: visit during the early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the crowd and seize the best photo moments with the golden stupa. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, and remember to take off your shoes before entering the Pagoda – a nod to the local customs. Respect the sacred relics, after all, you're stepping into a place where spirituality unites with history.

Contact Information

Address: Pagoda Street, Bago, Myanmar

Opening hours: 7 am–6 pm

As our sun-soaked journey via the warmly-aged routes of the Shwemawdaw Pagoda comes to a close, in your mind's eye, the golden sheen of this spiritual monolith remains, ablaze with the aura of centuries gone by. This is more than just a chapter closed on a captivating tale of discovery; it’s an endearing story now etched into your heart, a tale you'll recount to eager listeners back home.

You've not only strolled the sacred walkways of Myanmar's tallest pagoda but also immersed yourself into the folds of a richly woven tapestry of spirituality and cultural heritage. As you leave this grand arena of Burmese faith, let the profound tranquillity you experienced at the heartland of Bago travel with you, long after the bittersweet goodbyes.

Travel buddies, paint your journey's story on Instagram's canvas tagging @rollinggrace or using #RollingGrace - from the gastronomic wonderlands to the enchanting vistas. Continue to chase horizons and flavours!