Unlike many other temples and pagodas in Bagan, which are built between the plains, Shwezigon pagoda is built on a sand dune (the meaning of Shwezigon is the pagoda on a sand dune). Shwezigon is considered the first and the most sacred gold pagoda in Myanmar.

Traveling to Myanmar’s temples and pagodas bypassing Shwezigon is indeed a great omission, a pagoda with a unique and sacred architecture. Through this article, visitors will somewhat understand more about the sacred pagoda as well as the beautiful Myanmar country.
Like other famous temples in Myanmar, Shwezigon also suffered from the devastation of nature. The earthquake in 1975 caused much damage to the pagoda, especially the tower and top of the roof. However, with the contribution of the government as well as the indigenous people, tourists…, this pagoda was restored and repaired.

Shwezigon pagoda was built during the reign of King Anawrahta, the founder of Bagan. The intention of the king when building Shwezigon pagoda is to store the relics of the Buddha. However, until the reign of Kyansittha in 1102, the construction was completed. The main chedi of the pagoda was gilded and placed on a square background looking solid and completely symmetrical. Under the top of the tower, a lot of small bells are hang. There are 4 stairs leading up the stupa.

With outstanding, luxury and splendor architecture, many tourists coming to Myanmar commented that Shwezigon pagoda is similar to the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. The Shwezigon pagoda is considered the prototype for all future architecture of pagodas and temples in Burma. The four main towers of the Shwezigon pagoda are gilded, with four golden lions at the top of the tower, a structure like a parasol – found in most temples of Myanmar. Every year, the Burmese people overlap the golden exterior of the pagoda. Thanks to this gold layer, you will feel the mystery when the sun shines in or at night when dozens of lights or candles are lit up.
The Shwezigon pagoda is located in the heart of a large area, surrounded by many temples and pagodas. Today, at the corridors leading into the pagoda, many local people sell souvenirs. One of them are the unique sand paintings, they dye and use them to paint very unique photos of Bagan.
If you intend to visit the ancient capital Bangan, visit Shwezigon Temple a temple with this unique and sacred architecture!

Explore other famous Temples, Pagodas in Bagan: Htilominlo Temple; Ananda Temple; Dhammayangyi Temple; Thatbyinnyu temple; Gawdawpalin temple; Shwesandaw Pagoda; Sulamani Temple; Shwegugyi Temple; Dhammayazika pagoda