Popular Pagodas in Yangon, Myanmar

Last month, my wife and I traveled to Myanmar for the first time and explored its unspoiled land while witnessing and experiencing some of its many fascinating wonders, including the country's astounding pagodas in Yangon.

Myanmar's largest city and former capital, Yangon, is home to some of the country's oldest and most popular and highly admired pagodas namely: Shwedagon, Sule, and Chauk Htat Gyi. These pagodas are believed to date back to approximately 2,500 years ago. Originally small, the structures have been rebuilt, renovated, and made bigger throughout the centuries.

Shwedagon

Legends say that this pagoda is 2,500 years old, dating back to the lifetime of the Buddha, and making it the oldest pagoda in history. One of the many things that make this place so precious is that it is believed to have eight hairs of the Buddha.  It is no wonder it is the most popular attraction in Yangon that is visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.

The tallest stupa is coated in real gold plates from different countries around the world, and its tip is encrusted with rubies and diamonds while massive emeralds are positioned around it to reflect the rays of the setting sun. It looks glorious in daylight and is certainly one of the best pagodas ever built.

Sule

Another notable and popular pagoda found in Yangon is Sule. Like the Shwedagon, this pagoda is also believed to be over 2,500 years old and is also contains a hair relic of the Buddha. Legend has it that a powerful nat spirit known as Sularata resided at this place.

Chauk Htat Gyi 

Apart from magnificent temples and legendary sites, Yangon is also home to an enormous, 65-meter long Recycling Buddha image. It is located at one of the famous attraction in the city called Chauk Htat Gyi. Originally completed in 1907, it had experienced deterioration and damages over the years but restoration is currently being done to revive its original appearance.

As we wandered around these pagodas, we couldn't help but feel amazed at how beautifully they were built with great consideration of its culture religion, and belief, making these places so sacred and essential to the country and its people. 

On my next post, I'll write more about my travels in Myanmar, and why I believe this country is worthy of becoming one of Asia's must-visit destinations. Until then, this is your friendly global traveler, Johnny. See you out there!