Welcome to Shwezigon Pagoda

Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the most significant religious sites in Bagan, Myanmar. It is a prototype of Burmese stupas and holds great historical and cultural importance.

How to Reach Shwezigon Pagoda

To visit Shwezigon Pagoda, you'll first need to get to Bagan. Here are the ways you can reach Bagan:

• By Air: The closest airport to Bagan is Nyaung U Airport. There are regular flights from Yangon, Mandalay, and other major cities in Myanmar. Once you land, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to reach the pagoda, which is about 4 to 5 km away from the airport.
• By Bus: Bagan has good bus connections with major cities in Myanmar. The bus will drop you at Nyaung U or the Bagan Shwe Pyi Highway Bus Terminal. From there, you can hire a taxi or local transportation to reach the pagoda.
• By Train: The nearest train station is also at Nyaung U. Trains from Yangon and Mandalay stop here. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Shwezigon Pagoda.
• By Car: If you are renting a car or hiring a chauffeur-driven vehicle, Bagan is accessible via a network of roads from neighboring cities. The pagoda has parking spaces for visitors.
• By Boat: If you are coming from Mandalay, you can consider a boat trip down the Ayeyarwady River to Bagan. This scenic route will bring you to the Old Bagan jetty, from where you can take a taxi to the pagoda.

Visitor Tips

• Be sure to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site, covering shoulders and knees.
• It is recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to witness the stunning sunsets and sunrises.
• Don't forget to remove your shoes and socks before entering the pagoda grounds, as is customary in Myanmar temples.
• Consider hiring a local guide to fully understand the history and significance of the pagoda.

Best Time to Visit Shwezigon Pagoda

The pagoda can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months of November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration.

Cultural Significance of Shwezigon Pagoda

Shwezigon Pagoda is not only a splendid example of Burmese temple architecture but also an important pilgrimage site. The pagoda is said to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha. The full moon day of Tazaungmon in November or December hosts a yearly festival that draws crowds of worshippers.