Thatta Thattaha Maha Bawdi Pagoda
Nay Pyi Taw
Thatta Thattaha Maha Bawdi Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on Udayaraṃsi hillock in Pobbathiri Township, Naypyidaw, Myanmar. This pagoda is a faithful replica of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India, and stands 162 feet (49 meters) tall. It serves as a significant religious site for Buddhists who are unable to make the pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya, as it houses replicas of important locations from Gautama Buddha's life, including his birth, enlightenment, preaching, and death. The temple complex provides a spiritual space for worship and reflection, embodying the sacred geography of Buddha's life. The buddhābhiṣeka ritual for the main Buddha image was conducted on 13 May 2014, marking a vital ceremonial event for the pagoda. The site is not only architecturally impressive but also culturally important, fostering devotion and religious education within Myanmar's Buddhist community.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during Buddhist festivals or early mornings to experience peaceful worship. Visitors who cannot travel to Bodh Gaya will find this pagoda a meaningful alternative. Advance planning is recommended for group visits, though tickets are generally accessible on-site. Discounts may be available for religious groups or large parties.
Interesting facts
- •The pagoda is an exact replica of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India.
- •It stands 162 feet (49 meters) tall, matching the height of the original.
- •The complex includes replicas of four key locations associated with Gautama Buddha's life: birth, enlightenment, preaching, and death.
- •The buddhābhiṣeka ritual of the main Buddha image was held on 13 May 2014.
History
The Thatta Thattaha Maha Bawdi Pagoda was constructed as a replica of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya to provide an accessible pilgrimage site within Myanmar.
The buddhābhiṣeka ritual of the main Buddha image took place on 13 May 2014, indicating the completion and consecration of the temple.
Since then, it has served as an important religious and cultural landmark in Naypyidaw, reflecting Myanmar's Buddhist heritage and devotion.
The pagoda was built to accommodate worshippers unable to undertake the journey to India, thus enhancing local religious practice.
Place Guide
Main Pagoda Structure2014
The central pagoda is a faithful architectural replica of the Mahabodhi Temple, featuring a towering spire and intricate design that symbolizes the enlightenment of Buddha.
Replicas of Buddha's Life Sites
Within the complex, visitors can explore replicas of four significant sites from Gautama Buddha's life: his birth, enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, first preaching, and passing away, providing a comprehensive spiritual journey.
