Shwemawdaw Pagoda — Attraction in Bago District

Shwemawdaw Pagoda

Tallest pagoda in Burma

The Shwemawdaw Paya in Bago is the tallest pagoda in Burma. With its height of 114 meters it is 15 meters taller than the Shwedagon Pagoda in nearby Yangon. The impressive Shwemawdaw, which translates to “Great Golden God” was built by the Mon people over a thousand years ago. It is one of Burma’s most sacred sites, because it enshrines several relics of the Buddha. The towering pagoda glittering in the sun can be seen from miles around. The grounds are peaceful and not much visited by tourists. Over the centuries, the pagoda has been rebuilt and enlarged several times, as a result of the destruction caused by earthquakes. Two huge Chinthe, mythological animals that look like a lion stand guard at the entrance of the temple grounds. Numerous small pagodas are placed at the base of the 114 meter tall Shwemawdaw. The pagoda is topped with a diamond studded hti, a top ornament shaped as an umbrella found on most Burmese temples.

Structures around the stupa

On the terrace surrounding the stupa are statues of Nat spirits and eight shrines where Buddhists pray. There is one shrine for each day of the week and two for Wednesday, that is split in two. Every shrine is associated with a planet in accordance with Eastern astrology. People pray to the shrine belonging to their birthday. In front of the Shwemawdaw lies the top section of the pagoda that broke off during the devastating 1917 earthquake. Around the pagoda are several shrines and ornately decorated pavilions with a multi tiered Pyatthat roof. A bell on the main platform was donated by King Dhammazedi, King of the Hanthawaddy Kingdom during the late 15th century. The bell contains inscriptions made by the King. A small museum on the grounds exhibits ancient wooden and bronze images of the Buddha as well as other artifacts found after the 1930 earthquake. The Bago area has been hit by powerful quakes many times. After the 1930 earthquake largely destroyed the stupa, it was rebuild and enlarged to its current height in 1954. Pictures of the pagoda after the 1930 quake and the rebuilding can be viewed in the covered walkway leading to the pagoda.



Legend of the Shwemawdaw Paya

The Shwemawdaw Paya was built in the 10th century by a Mon King. The pagoda, which was much smaller than it is today was built to enshrine two hair relics of the Buddha. According to legend, the hair strands were given to two Burmese merchants by the Gautama Buddha himself. In the year 982 and again in 1385, tooth relics were enshrined in the pagoda.

How to get to Shwemawdaw Paya

The pagoda is found on Pagoda road near Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace, East of NH1 National Highway. A trishaw from downtown Bago to the pagoda should cost no more than 1,000 Kyat.

Opening hours

The temple grounds open daily from 6 am until 9 pm. The grounds can get very busy during Buddhist holidays and Burmese national holidays.

Entrance fee

The Bago archeological zone ticket at US$ 10 per person is valid to visit the pagoda as well as for most other historical sites in Bago. Hold on to your receipt since staff check regularly. There is a US$...

The Shwemawdaw Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar, is a majestic testament to the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. Standing at a towering height of 114 meters, it is often referred to as the "Golden God Temple" due to its glistening exterior adorned with gold leaf.

The pagoda's grandeur is immediately apparent upon approach, with its intricately designed spire dominating the skyline. As visitors ascend the stairs to reach the main platform, they are greeted by a serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The interior of the pagoda houses a sacred relic chamber, adding to its spiritual significance. Devotees and tourists alike are captivated by the peaceful ambiance and the devout worship taking place within.

The architecture reflects a blend of Mon and Burmese styles, showcasing the historical amalgamation of cultures in the region. The ornate details, including delicate carvings and vibrant decorations, highlight the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its construction.

A visit to Shwemawdaw Pagoda is not only a cultural experience but also a spiritual journey. Whether one is drawn by its architectural splendor, religious importance, or panoramic views, this pagoda stands as a symbol of Myanmar's enduring legacy and is a must-see destination for those exploring the...

The Shwe Maw Daw Pagoda, located in the heart of Bago, radiates a timeless golden glow. Standing at 114 meters, it is not only the tallest pagoda in Myanmar but also a powerful symbol of the deep-rooted faith that has endured in the hearts of its people for over a thousand years.

According to legend, the pagoda was originally built more than 2,500 years ago by two Mon traders to enshrine a sacred hair relic of the Buddha. Despite suffering damage from several earthquakes over the centuries, it has been continuously restored—an enduring testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to preserving its spiritual heritage.

The architecture of Shwe Maw Daw is a graceful blend of Mon and Burmese styles. The intricate decorative patterns surrounding the structure reflect both artistic delicacy and deep reverence for traditional craftsmanship.

To truly appreciate its ethereal beauty, the best time to visit is after 5 PM. As the sun begins to set, the pagoda is bathed in a warm golden light that glows softly against the sky. By nightfall, its illuminated form shimmers like a vision from myth, casting a dreamlike aura that lingers long after...