Uppatasanti Pagoda
Nay Pyi Taw
Uppatasanti Pagoda, also known as the Peace Pagoda, is a prominent Buddhist monument located in Naypyidaw, Myanmar's capital. Standing at 99 meters tall, it closely mirrors the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon but is slightly shorter by 30 centimeters. Constructed between 2006 and 2009 under the guidance of Than Shwe, the pagoda serves as a symbol of protection against calamity, with its name derived from a 16th-century sutta intended to be recited during crises. The pagoda complex features a massive man-made base, which resembles a large hill, and houses a sacred Buddha tooth relic. Visitors can explore various notable structures within the precinct, including the Maha Hsutaungpyae Buddha Image, four jade Buddha images in a hollow cave, a 108-foot high flagstaff, and several gardens such as the Bo Tree Garden with images of the 28 Buddhas and a Garden of 108 Bo Trees. Additional facilities include a lake with the chamber of Shin Upagutta, an ordination hall, hostels for monks, a religious archive, and a pagoda museum. The site is also known for housing seven captive white elephants under government custody, though their living conditions have been a subject of concern. The pagoda’s consecration in 2009 was marked by a tragic ferris wheel accident. Today, Uppatasanti Pagoda stands as a spiritual and cultural landmark symbolizing peace and protection in Myanmar's modern capital.
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Tip: The best time to visit Uppatasanti Pagoda is during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy serene surroundings and beautiful lighting for photography. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully as it is a religious site. Purchasing tickets or gaining entry is generally straightforward, but checking local event schedules is recommended to avoid festival crowds. No specific ticket discounts are noted, but group visits or religious ceremonies may offer special considerations. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the pagoda's cultural significance and architectural features.
Interesting facts
- •Uppatasanti Pagoda is a near replica of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon but is intentionally 30 centimeters shorter.
- •The pagoda houses a sacred Buddha tooth relic, making it an important pilgrimage site.
- •The name 'Uppatasanti' translates to 'protection against calamity' and is linked to a 16th-century sutta recited in times of crisis.
- •Seven captive white elephants are kept on the pagoda grounds under government custody, although their living conditions have been criticized.
- •The massive base of the pagoda is entirely man-made and can be mistaken for a natural hill.
History
Construction of Uppatasanti Pagoda began with a stake-driving ceremony on 12 November 2006 and was completed in March 2009.
It was built under the guidance of Than Shwe, the head of Myanmar's ruling council at the time, as a symbol of protection and peace.
The pagoda’s name, meaning protection against calamity, references a 16th-century sutta used in times of crisis.
The consecration ceremony on 10 March 2009 included the hoisting of the sacred umbrella and diamond lotus bud, traditional elements of Burmese pagoda consecrations.
Unfortunately, the festival marking the consecration was marred by a ferris wheel accident that resulted in 20 deaths.
Since then, the pagoda has become a significant spiritual landmark in Naypyidaw, symbolizing peace and resilience.
Place Guide
Maha Hsutaungpyae Buddha Image
A prominent Buddha image located within the Maha Pasadabhumi Gandhakuṭi Chamber, revered by visitors for its spiritual significance.
Jade Buddha Images Cave
A hollow cave inside the pagoda housing four jade Buddha images, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism.
108 Feet High Tagundaing (Flagstaff)
A towering flagstaff standing 108 feet tall, an important symbolic element in Burmese pagoda architecture representing Buddhist cosmology.
Bo Tree Garden
A peaceful garden featuring the Maha Bo Tree and images of the 28 Buddhas, offering visitors a contemplative environment.
Garden of 108 Bo Trees
An expansive garden area planted with 108 Bo Trees, symbolizing spiritual growth and protection.
Mālinī Maṅgala Lake and Shin Upagutta Chamber
A serene lake within the pagoda grounds featuring the chamber dedicated to Shin Upagutta, a revered figure in Burmese Buddhism.
Withongama Ordination Hall (Thein)
The ordination hall used for monastic ceremonies and religious rites within the pagoda complex.
Pagoda Museum
A museum located within the pagoda precinct displaying religious artifacts and the history of the pagoda.
