Shwemawdaw Pagoda
Bago
The Shwemawdaw Pagoda, located in Bago, Myanmar, stands as the tallest stupa in the world at an overall height of 125 meters (410 feet). This Buddhist stupa is a significant religious site, believed to have origins dating back to the lifetime of the Buddha. Tradition holds that two merchant brothers received sacred hair relics from the Buddha and constructed the original 22-meter tall stupa. Over centuries, the pagoda was expanded and enhanced by various monarchs, including King Razadarit who built 160 small stupas around it, and King Bayinnaung who added a jeweled hti spire. The structure has endured multiple earthquakes, notably in the early 20th century, leading to significant repairs completed in the mid-20th century. The pagoda is also famous for its annual 10-day festival held during the Burmese month of Tagu, attracting many pilgrims and visitors. Architecturally, the Shwemawdaw is a striking example of Burmese stupa design, symbolizing deep religious devotion and cultural heritage in Myanmar.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to attend during the annual 10-day festival in the Burmese month of Tagu to experience the full cultural and spiritual atmosphere. It is recommended to check opening hours and consider purchasing tickets or arranging visits through official channels in advance. Modest dress is required as it is a sacred Buddhist site. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more peaceful visit and better light for photography. Discounts may be available for groups or pilgrims.
Interesting facts
- •Shwemawdaw Pagoda is the tallest stupa in the world at 125 meters (410 feet).
- •The pagoda houses sacred relics including strands of the Buddha's hair and a tooth relic.
- •King Bayinnaung added a hti spire adorned with jewels from his crown in 1556.
- •The pagoda has been damaged and rebuilt multiple times due to earthquakes, notably in 1912, 1917, and 1930.
- •The annual Shwemawdaw Pagoda festival lasts 10 days during the Burmese month of Tagu, attracting numerous pilgrims.
History
According to tradition, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda was originally established during the Buddha's lifetime by two merchant brothers who enshrined strands of the Buddha's hair in a 22-meter tall stupa.
A sacred tooth relic was added in 982/83 CE.
The pagoda was significantly expanded in the late 14th century when Bago became the Hanthawaddy capital.
Subsequent kings enhanced the structure, including King Razadarit's addition of 160 smaller stupas in 1390 and King Bayinnaung's jeweled hti spire and 52 stupas in 1556.
The pagoda suffered severe earthquake damage in the early 20th century, with major restoration completed between 1951 and 1954, resulting in its current height of 125 meters.
Place Guide
Main Stupa14th century and later expansions
The central towering stupa, reaching 125 meters, is the tallest in the world and contains sacred relics of the Buddha. It is the focal point for worship and ceremonies.
Surrounding Small Stupas1390
Around the main stupa, 160 small stupas built by King Razadarit in 1390 surround the complex, adding to its grandeur and spiritual significance.
Hti Spire Umbrella1556
A jeweled hti spire umbrella crowns the stupa, originally installed by King Bayinnaung in 1556 with jewels from his crown, symbolizing royal patronage and reverence.
