Undeniably the country’s most stunning Buddhist structure,
Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda enchants all those who tread upon its dazzling
114-acre complex in the heart of Yangon. The Shwedagon is more than a national icon—it’s
a treasure—and basking in its magnificence is an absolute must. Here’s how to
get the most out of experiencing this ancient wonder of the world.
Reflective of Myanmar’s resilience, the Shwedagon Pagoda
shines on
Situated at the top of Singuttara Hill and overlooking the
city, this incredibly sacred place has witnessed Myanmar’s dynamic,
ever-changing history over the course of an estimated 2,500 years. The
Shwedagon has endured severe natural disasters, military occupation, been the
site of historic public speeches and protests; and yet, its grandeur exists
today to tell each century’s story in the faintest sounds of bells and the
loudest patters of bare feet.
A welcome fit for royalty upon entrance to the Shwedagon
Say mingalabar to the massive pairs of chinthe guarding each
of the four covered walkways, known as zaungdan, leading up to the Shwedagon
Paya. It’s common to find these colossal lion-like creatures securing the the perimeter of temples in Myanmar.
The Shwedagon’s southern entrance is considered the main way
to get in, and all but the western entryways are bustling with merchants
selling anything from flowers and incense to antiques and souvenirs.
Perhaps the grandest of the entrances with its marble floors
and regal columns, the western gate creates the feeling of entering a dreamy
palace. This entry also has escalators. If an elevator is necessary, use the
southern, northern or eastern gates.
The Shwedagon Pagoda is open daily from 4 a.m.–10 p.m.
There’s an approximately US$8 cash-only entrance fee for foreigners. ATMs and
moneychangers are located at various points within the grounds of the
Shwedagon. Dress modestly and remove shoes. For a small donation, footwear can
be dropped off on the way up to the main platform.
It’s possible to book a guided tour to learn even more about
the Shwedagon while visiting, or locals hoping to make some extra cash and
practice English will eventually surface from the crowd and gladly serve as
guides.
The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is a glimpse of glitz and
glam
For the most idyllic first impression of Myanmar’s Shwedagon
Pagoda in all its glory, enter from the northern covered walkway. The central
stupa, rising approximately 325 feet above the terrace, is perfectly framed
from this angle.
Surrounding the towering bell-shaped stupa, referred to as a
zedi in Burmese, are 64 smaller stupas and four larger cardinal corner ones. 12
planetary posts representing days of the week and the moon’s ascension also
encompass the zedi’s base.
It’s hard to fathom or even accurately measure the amount of
gold—by the ton—the Shwedagon actually has. The main zedi is plated with tens
of thousands of solid gold bars, and the spired umbrella (hti) top, intricately
adorned with thousands of diamonds, precious stones and golden bells, is
estimated to be worth an astonishing US$3 billion on its own.
What to see and do at the Shwedagon besides becoming
enthralled by its wealth
After marveling at the richness of the Shwedagon, it’s time
to explore. Head to one of the numerous prayer pavilions for a prime
people-watching perch. From here local couples can be seen holding hands,
Myanmar families can be spotted praying together, and many tourists as well as
monks and nuns from all over the world can be identified.
Perhaps find a quieter worship hall to mediate, or let a
temple cat lead you astray. But, beware. The colorful, swirling lights around
many of the Shwedagon’s images of Buddha have a way of mesmerizing visitors for
hours.
Before leaving, pour water over the Buddha statue at the
station or “corner” that represents the day of your birth, and ding a few deep
tonal dongs out of the Tharrawaddy Min Bell – one of two unbelievably big
cast-iron bells displayed at the Shwedagon.
The Naungdawgyi Paya near the north entrance is worth
mentioning. It’s believed to be the original site where eight Buddha hair
relics were enshrined. There’s also a small museum near the northwestern corner
of the pagoda level, open from 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday, and a nearby
photo gallery offering close-ups of the ornate hti atop the main zedi.
At dawn, dusk and during Buddhist holidays is when to visit
the Shwedagon
To see the Shwedagon Pagoda gilded in glorious golden light,
the best and busiest times to go are around sunrise and sunset. Venturing to
the Shwedagon during the afternoon might not be as crowded, but it’ll be
scorching hot depending on the season.
Go during Buddhist holidays such as Thingyan, Thadingyut and
Tazaungdaing for an especially memorable experience.
The Shwedagon Pagoda’s path less traveled
Take the lower footpath encircling the compound for a
quieter stroll to see the Shwedagon from a different perspective. This pathway
is accessible from all four entrances and isn’t as frequented by tourists. It’s
the perfect way to take time to fully process the awesomeness of experiencing
Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda.
Source The Culture Trip
