Andaw Thein Pagoda
Rakhine
Andaw Thein Pagoda, also known as Andaw-thein Temple, is a significant Buddhist temple located in Mrauk U, Rakhine State, Myanmar. Built initially as an ordination hall between 1515 and 1521 by King Thazata, it was later restored and expanded by subsequent kings to enshrine a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha brought from Sri Lanka. Architecturally, the temple is notable for its octagonal central shrine surrounded by two concentric octagonal corridors and sixteen smaller shrines each housing Buddha images. The main shrine is crowned by a bell-shaped stupa with a segmented dome, reflecting early Mrauk-U style. The temple's interior is fortress-like with limited openings, emphasizing its solemn and sacred atmosphere. Inside, visitors can find 175 Buddha images, including six standing statues in the prayer hall displaying various mudras symbolizing key Buddhist teachings. The temple is also remarkable for its intricate relief carvings that blend Buddhist and Hindu iconography, including depictions of Ganesh, Shiva, Brahma, and Garuda, which is unusual for a Buddhist temple and highlights the cultural syncretism of the region. This combination of religious art, historical relics, and distinctive architecture makes Andaw Thein a unique spiritual and cultural landmark in Myanmar.
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Tip: The best time to visit Andaw Thein Pagoda is during the dry season to avoid monsoon rains. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance as it is a popular site in Mrauk U. Modest clothing is recommended due to the temple's religious significance. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the rich iconography and history. Discounts may be available for students and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The temple houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha said to be brought from Sri Lanka.
- •The tooth relic measures approximately 3¼ inches in length and is nearly as thick.
- •There are 175 Buddha images within the temple, including six standing statues with different mudras.
- •The temple's architecture features an octagonal central shrine with two concentric octagonal passageways.
- •Intricate reliefs include Hindu deities such as Ganesh, Shiva, and Brahma alongside Buddhist figures, reflecting cultural syncretism.
- •A golden casket containing the tooth relic was once stolen but the relic was recovered and placed in a silver case.
History
Andaw Thein Pagoda was originally constructed as an ordination hall by King Thazata between 1515 and 1521.
It underwent restoration by King Ming Phalaung in the mid-16th century (1534–1542).
In 1596, King Min Razagyi renovated the temple to enshrine a sacred Buddha tooth relic brought from Sri Lanka, marking its transformation into a significant pilgrimage site.
Over the centuries, the temple has preserved its unique architectural style and religious importance in the Mrauk U region.
Place Guide
Central Octagonal Shrine16th century
The temple's main feature is the octagonal central shrine surrounded by two concentric octagonal corridors, exemplifying early Mrauk-U temple architecture with a fortress-like stone construction.
Prayer Hall and Buddha Statues16th century
A large prayer hall at the eastern entrance contains six standing Buddha statues, each displaying different mudras symbolizing significant Buddhist teachings such as the descent from the heaven of thirty-three gods.
Reliefs of Buddhist and Hindu Figures16th century
The temple's thrones feature intricate carvings of both Buddhist and Hindu deities including Ganesh, Shiva, Brahma, Garuda, and mythical creatures, an unusual blend that highlights the region's cultural and religious syncretism.
