Astonishing evidence of the religious fervour of Bagan’s inhabitants and rulers can be found in the 10,000 temples and pagodas that formerly existed there. Natural events like earthquakes devastated many, while a handful suffered damage from a Mongol invasion. Bagan is one of Southeast Asia’s richest archaeological sites right now, with almost 2,200 structures still standing. A vacation to Myanmar is not complete without visiting the temples and pagodas of Bagan.
Wondering what the difference is? A pagoda typically houses a Buddha relic or a construction to honour a famous person, that offers permanent remembrance to a significant family, or both. On the other side, Buddhist rock caves served as the primary inspiration for the temples. Following is a list of the most important pagodas and temples in Bagan. These are also some of our favourites.
Must-Visit Temples And Pagodas Of Bagan
1. Ananda Temple
Even from a distance, one can see the 170-foot-tall gold hti, which is an adornment or umbrella that can be seen atop most Burmese pagodas. One of the first temples to be built at Bagan was the Ananda Temple. One of Bagan’s finest, largest, and most respected temples, it is thought to have been constructed in 1105 by King Kyanzittha.
2. Bupaya Pagoda
Along the Irrawaddy Riverbanks, is the Bupaya Pagoda. Bupaya translates to “gourd-shaped pagoda.” This pagoda, which was totally devastated in the earthquake of 1975, is thought to be the oldest in Bagan. But now it stands atop terraces as a gilded stupa.
3. Shwe Gu Gyi Pagoda
Shwe Gu Gyi Pagoda, another stunning pagoda in Old Bagan, was created in 1131 by King Alaungsithu. “Shwegugyi” is short for “the Golden Cave.” The King’s greatness and merit, according to tradition, caused a 12 feet tall massive block of brick to grow from the ground. This substantial piece served as the pagoda’s plinth.
4. Sulamani Pagoda
Sulamani Pagoda also referred to as the Crowning Diamond, was built in 1174 AD by King Narapatishithu, the infamous King Narathu’s son. Beautiful old murals and frescoes adorn the walls of the Sulamani Pagoda.
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5. Shwezigon Pagoda
The beautiful and glittering Shwezigon Pagoda is the primary religious building in Bagan. King Anawrahta ordered the construction of this pagoda, but it wasn’t finished until King Kyanzittha’s reign (1084-1113). The pagoda’s entire exterior is golden.
6. Thatbyinnyu Temple
In the middle of the lush surroundings, Thatbyinnyu Temple stands out among the other temples of Bagan as a stunning white building. The name Thatbyinnyu is derived from Buddha’s Omniscience. Actually, it means “understanding deeply and perceiving broadly.” The temple, which is 63 metres tall, undoubtedly, has a broad view. King Alaungsithu had the temple constructed in 1144.
7. Shwesandaw Pagoda
One of the best sites to see the sunset in Bagan is Shwesandaw Pagoda. You could see the temples and the river in all directions from the terraces. The pagoda stays extremely crowded in the evening, but the view from the top makes up for it. After conquering Thaton in 1057, King Anawrahta built the Shwesandaw Pagoda. “Golden sacred hair” is what Shwesandaw translates to. It is reported that the stupa houses a hair relic of Buddha that the monarch of Bago gave to King Anawrahta.
8. Mahazedi Pagoda
Despite being relatively unknown, this location offers a fantastic view of the sunrise. There are several terraces on the modest, serene Mahazedi Pagoda where you can ascend to see the sunrise.
Which one of these are you most excited to visit?
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