An exceptional pagoda, possibly one of the most famous in our world. This is definitely a must see if you happen to be in Yangon, Myanmars capital city.

Shwedagon Pagoda

We know it as Shwedagon Pagoda the locals know it as Shwedagon Zedi Daw. It can be seen from most locations in the city of Yangon. AT 99m tall it dominates the skyline. During the day the sun reflects brightly from the gold leaf encrusted stupa, whilst at night time it is illuminated tastefully providing a warm glow to the city skyline.

History Time

It is believed, in legend, to be over 2,600 years old. Although according to archeologists that believe it to me a more conservative, yet still impressive, 1200 years old.

The pagoda is rumoured to have 8 Buddha hairs contained within it. This adds that the auspiciousness of the shine. Shwedagon Pagoda is a popular pilgrimage for the followers of Buddha because of the hairs contained within and due to the sheer beauty and size of the structure.

Over the many centuries of existence the stupa has been damaged due to earthquakes. During each repair operation it has been customary for the King to add height or beauty to the pagoda. This may be why it is now such an impressive structure.

The travel

Some Advice First

Myanmar isn't the easiest place to travel in. Remember, that tourism is new to the country and it is going through an enormous amount of change at this time. With the onslaught of largely unregulated tourism comes many problems. You will see many (I mean hundreds) of children working near any tourism site. Do not buy or give money to these children, this only serves to compound the problem. If you do want to help them please provide money to one of the many charities helping children get an education.

Arriving at the Pagoda

It is quite central and any taxi will get you close for a couple of dollars. There are an enormous number of stairs to climb first. These stairs are covered in tunnels. Here you can find many trinkets and touristy things for sale. You are free to bargain and I know I have said it but please don't buy from children.

You will need to take your shoes off when you get to the temple. The easiest thing to do is shove them in you backpack or bring your own bag. Needless to say many people try to sell you plastic bags! No need! The tunnels are not clean and you will be in bare feet, so bring some baby wipes to clean your feet at the very end.

You will also see people buying flowers, candles and coloured flags. These will be brought to the main pagoda and offered in a symbolic gesture of giving (an important aspect of Buddhist beliefs). Feel free to join in this ritual if you feel compelled. I prefer to observe and respect from a distance.

The Pagoda

It costs around $6 for an adult. No doubt you will be offered a tour, there are official guides there. I have no idea what they cost as I like to do my own reading and move around at my own pace.

It is normal to travel round pagodas in a clockwise direction, just follow the crowds. Stop and relax and people watch. Take time to admire the ornate work containing over 7,000 diamonds, rubies and other rare gem stones. If the sun is out the gold leaf can be blindingly brilliant (but do bring sun glasses, as wearing a a hat is frowned upon).

There are many places to relax and enjoy the atmosphere whilst you are there. The sound of the bells ringing and the general warm hubbub makes it an ideal place to take some weight off you feet.

We had to find somewhere to relax that was covered as it began to rain very heavily whilst there, but this gave a great opportunity for some playing with the camera.

Summary

This is a must do if you are Yangon and in fact I would start here if possible as it gives you a good grounding in how tourism operates in Myanmar.

Remember, please don't give money to children in any way.
The best way to help them is to >give money to a charity
promoting schooling and education.

These last photos were taken during the rain

The light wasn't great, nor the timing of trying to get peoples feet. But I'd still like to share some of them with you all.