Considered one of the three major worship sites in Yangon (the other two being Shwedagon and Sule Pagoda), Botahtaung features quirky charms and peculiarities.
Located on the bank of the Yangon River, Botahtaung is a typical gilded dome that tapers gradually to the top and is capped by a symbolic fan-shape spire. Unlike many pagodas (known as zedi in Myanmar), Botahtaung is hollow inside allowing visitors to walk through to admire what is considered the highlight of any pilgrimage – a glass case containing a sacred hair relic of the Buddha.
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Botahtaung Pagoda
Legend has it that several of Buddha’s remains, brought over from India 2,500 years ago and deposited here on the river bank, were guarded by a thousand soldiers, thus lending the name ‘Botahtaung’ which means ‘one thousand generals.’ During World War II, the original structure was bombed but was rebuilt in 1956 to its present-day height of 48 metres.
The road in front of the shrine beckons visitors in with its colourful array of shops selling fruits, flowers and other offerings items. Enter the main entrance on the right and marvel at the gleaming hall covered in gold (leaf). From here, turn left and follow the narrow circular walkway laced with dazzling glass mosaic. Halfway through the labyrinth is the centrepiece glass case with the Buddha hair.
Outside the Pagoda to the west, a small building houses a splendid specimen of a Mandalay-style Buddha image seated on a bejewelled throne. Nan-oo, as it is known here, was taken by the British in the 1885 and exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Only in 1951 was it returned to the people of Myanmar.
There is a large pond with fish and turtles feeding on popcorns, which is on sale conveniently nearby. A covered bridge leads visitors to a shrine of a few resident Nats (guardian spirits) who cast their protective sight over the temple grounds. The Nats, who form an important part of most religious monuments in Myanmar, can allegedly grant wishes and fulfil dreams. Nats are said to be fond of young coconuts and bananas. Offerings in the form of money are widely practiced.
There is a monastery across the road from the main Pagoda providing a glimpse into the temple life. A short stroll from here is the jetty where visitors can observe life along the Yangon waterway.
- Opening Hours: 06:00 - 20:00 daily
- Location: Corner of Strand Road and Botahtaung Pagoda Road
- Price Range: US$2/person, camera fee US$1, camcorder fee US$2
