Maha Myat Muni Pagoda Place guide

Visiting important religious buildings have become some sort of pilgrimage to a number of travelers. Seeing the different structures, that instill a powerful force amongst the devotees, is not only a great way to understand the culture of a foreign destination, but also explore the history of the nation through art and architectural design. In the regions of Mandalay, Myanmar, the walls of Maha Myat Muni Pagoda holds rooms filled with treasures, most of which associate to the enlightened Buddha.

Originally coming from Arakan, this sacred space and major pilgrimage site is located at the southwest of the city. Here, travelers can get a chance to view the various sculptures which adds a touch of beauty in every room or hall. There is a gallery in the southeastern side of the temple courtyard where inscriptions inscribed in marble and sandstone can be found, bronze statues of mythical creatures – believed to have healing powers when rubbed, and the most important one of all, the giant golden statue of Maha Muni Buddha sitting in a small chamber, who greets devotees with a calm smile.

Since the Maha Myat Muni Pagoda is highly revered by the people of Myanmar, it is used for a number of important festivals. Trip Guru would like to suggest travelers, who want to see this pagoda in its busiest hours, to visit during the early morning (5:00AM) to catch the daily morning ritual, or during early February, to celebrate the end of the Buddhist Lent known as the Mahamuni Paya Pwe. Please observe the rules and regulations in order for your visit to be enjoyable. It is best that you wear clothes that cover your arms and legs – the basic attire when visiting any temple or sacred space.

The pagoda is opened daily from 6:00AM to 8:00PM and has an entrance fee that costs around $4 per person. To get here from the heart of Mandalay, you can take a private car and head west towards Route 1. After 350m, take a left turn on the same route, and continue on 42nd street. Once you have reached this, drive to 82nd street and once you hit 1.4km, the Maha Myat Buddha temple will be on your sights.