Shwedagon, Visiting Guide To The Fantastic Temples Of Yangon

In Myanmar, the former Burma, there is an incredible city: Yangon. And here we are going to visit one of the most spectacular places on the Asian continent: Shwedagon. It is a religious complex made up of temples of incalculable beauty and value. Do you want to know more about these temples in Yangon? Join us!

Until recently, Yangon, which means “city without enemies”, was the capital of Burma. It is the most populated city in the country and, due to its millenary history, it houses treasures such as its temples, with incalculable cultural and religious value.

Shwedagon : history of the temples of Yangon

Legends say that the Shwedagon stupa, its most representative place, is almost 2,500 years old. However, archaeologists certify that the building was built during the 6th and 10th centuries. However, it is not entirely clear, as there are writings that date the construction before the death of Buddha in 480 BC.

This temple is one of the most important of the Buddhist religion. The reason? That inside there are relics of Buddha, such as pieces of cloth and up to eight hairs that belonged to him.

Shwedagon stupa architecture

The Shwedagon stupa stands 100 meters high and is covered in gold. This gives it impressive grandeur and beauty, especially at sunset.

To access there are four entrances with stairs that lead to the platform. Each of them is protected by two mythical lions. At the top of the platform is an image of the second Buddha. In addition, it has some terraces, but they are only accessible to monks and men.

At the top is the crown, covered with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies. The exterior is covered with gold plates that were donated by the inhabitants of Burma and the monarchs of the city.

As for the rest of the temples in Yangon, they have varied styles, depending on who made the offerings and the moment in history in which it was made.

Visiting hours and rates

Visiting hours are from 5 in the morning to 10 at night.  The price is a total of 8.00 kyats, which in euros is equivalent to approximately 5 euros, which is quite affordable, considering that you are visiting the largest and oldest padoga in the world and one of the most important temples of Buddhism .

This price is for tourists only, as Myanmar citizens do not have to pay for access. After paying the entrance fee, you will have a map with the most important points of the Yangon temples and some interesting explanations.

How to get to Shwedagon

The temples of Yangon are close to the old part of the city. Specifically, they are located on the Singuttara hill. West of Kandawgyi Lake and the Great Park.

From the Great Park you will arrive through the south entrance and enjoy a pleasant walk while you contemplate the views. In addition, if you visit it before sunset you can see for yourself the change in lighting and the wonderful effect that the padoga produces due to the gold.

Access rules

All those who want to visit Shwedagon have to follow a regulation. First of all, you have to take off your shoes before stepping on the entrance. And then, inside, respect the prayers, which are produced in a very particular way: they are carried out by going around counter-clockwise.

For the rest, it is asked to respect the believers, speak low and not disturb. Neither wear suspenders or sleeveless tops, as well as shorts. Therefore, you must enter with your body covered in clothing.

Interest of the temples of Yangon

In the temples of Yangon it is not only essential to visit the Shwedagon Padoga. There is a list of details that you should not miss. All around the complex are Buddha images, statues, paintings and stupas of all sizes.

In each temple there is a hidden charm, and for this it is important to follow the map. This is a very large complex and it takes more than a day to visit. That is why you must take it into account during your stay in the city and reserve enough time.

The temples of Yangon, especially the Shwedagon Padoga, are the most important religious symbols in Myanmar and throughout Asia. Its value is due to the relics and the dedication that the citizens put in its construction. Or is it not wonderful the effect of seeing it in a sunset?