The Shwezigon Pagoda (also called Shwezigon Paya) is a fantastic gold covered Buddhist temple in Bagan, Myanmar (Burma).
This pagoda was built in the 11th century, but it’s very well preserved and great for photos. It’s one of our favorite sights in the Bagan area!
This travel guide will explain how to get there, and everything you need to know before you go!The Shwezigon Paya was built by King Anawrahta during the reign of the Pagan Empire in the 11th century. Construction was finished in 1102 AD.
For the Burmese, this pagoda is a temple and pilgrimage center that’s believed to contain an actual bone and tooth of Buddha.
The bell shaped design of Shwezigon Paya has served as a prototype for many similar temples built all over the country of Myanmar.
The main pagoda has been damaged by a few earthquakes over the centuries, but it’s been rebuilt and strengthened each time.
Today, the Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the most popular tourist sights in the Bagan area!
Interesting floor tiles. You have to take your shoes off to visit Shwezigon Paya.
The locals at the temple are super friendly and even wanted to take pictures with us.
Like many temples in Myanmar, you have to remove your shoes and go barefoot on some dirty floors occasionally stained with pigeon poop. You might want wet wipes.
The main pagoda is great for photos, especially if you come at sunrise or sunset, when the light reflects off the gold leaf covering.
You can also get some unique pics if you come after dark when the pagoda is lit up.
This place is stunning and photogenic. Definitely put it at the top of your Bagan to do list!
Shwezigon Pagoda is located in Bagan, Myanmar.
It sits on the edge of Nyaung-U town, just a short distance from the Irrawaddy River and Old Bagan.
The best way to get there is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver (these can be booked online).
Looking for more information on the ancient Bagan temples of Myanmar?
Check out my full Bagan Travel Guide with free tips, maps, photos, and more.
Don’t forget to check out our complete Bagan Travel Guide with more tips!
If you’re looking for a good Bagan driver/guide to show you around, Klook has a range of options that includes guided full day tours by van, motorbike tours, and private taxi drivers.
These prices are pretty competitive based on what we saw being quoted in Myanmar, and the online reviews are very positive too.
We've used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.
We stayed at the Bagan HMWE Hotel in New Bagan town for $19 USD per night and loved it.
For this price, we got a clean double room with free buffet breakfast on the rooftop, comfy bed, good WiFi, cold A/C, and hot showers.
The staff was very friendly and they rented us an electric scooter for exploring the Bagan temples, which were just a few minutes away from the hotel, along with some great restaurants!
Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.
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