Photos credit : Hartfried Schmid

Unique Architecture

Shwedagon Pagoda is believed to be built over 2,500 years ago and shrines Buddha relics as well holy relics from time to time. The whole pagoda complex spreads over 114 arce of Singutarra Hill, overlooking the city and Kandawgyi Royal Lake. 
Its grand spire started at 8,2m and now rise up to 110m talls.  The golden flash that make Shwedagon shines actually comes from the golden plates pasted to its body and 4531 diamonds amongst which the largest is 72 carat. 

 The biggest Buddhist Pilgrimage Site in Yangon

The temple complex itself is also impressive, with many smaller stupas, a selection of shrines, both large and small, statues, art work, and more.  Females cannot worship at the main shrine, and they are prohibited from entering this area.  The temple really does embody the best of Burmese architecture, art, religion, and culture. 
On a typical visit you will see many monks and nuns wandering around and performing various religious rituals – praying, chanting, meditating, lighting incense, laying flowers, and washing the Buddha images. 
It is said that eight hairs of the most recent Buddha are housed within the pagoda, and that several miraculous events have taken place at the site.

Visiting Guide

The entrance fee of Shwedagon pagoda is $8 and it valid for whole day visit. There are four entrances from each side of the pagoda, giving different perspectives. 
Visitors must remove both their shoes and socks to enter the temple.  As the floor tiles can get very hot in the blazing sun it is better to visit early in the morning.  Even in the evenings the tiles can still feel pretty warm under bare feet.  Visitors should also make sure that they are dressed respectfully in order to be able to go inside.  This means shoulders covered and no short clothing.  Trousers are preferred, and sleeves should come at least as far as the elbow.    
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