About Shwedagon Pagoda
Shwedagon is the most revered Buddhist site in Myanmar. Legend holds that two merchant brothers received eight hairs from the Buddha himself and enshrined them on Singuttara Hill together with relics of three earlier Buddhas. Archaeologists date the stupa to between the 6th and 10th centuries, and successive rulers enlarged and gilded it until it reached about 99 meters.
The great bell-shaped stupa is covered in gold plates, and its crown is studded with thousands of diamonds and rubies. Around the base, a marble terrace holds shrines, pavilions, bells and planetary posts where Burmese devotees pour water on images corresponding to the day of the week they were born. The pagoda glows at sunset as families gather to pray and light candles.
What to see
- Gilded main stupa at sunset
- Planetary posts for the days of birth
- Maha Gandha Bell
- Covered stairways with traditional stalls
- Evening candle lighting by devotees
Visiting Shwedagon Pagoda: practical guide
- Best time
- November to February; late afternoon to evening
- Hours
- Daily, about 4:00 to 22:00
- Entry
- About 20,000 MMK for foreigners
- Dress code
- Shoulders and knees covered; barefoot on the platform
- Nearest airport
- Yangon International Airport (RGN), 15 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Walk the platform clockwise
- Find your birth day shrine and pour water for blessings
- Check current travel advisories before planning a trip to Myanmar
Festivals and special days
- Shwedagon Pagoda Festival (Tabaung full moon, February or March)
- Thadingyut light festival
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Shwedagon Pagoda?
Shwedagon Pagoda is in Yangon, Yangon Region, Myanmar, Asia. GPS coordinates: 16.7983, 96.1497. The nearest airport is Yangon International Airport (RGN), 15 km.
What is the best time to visit Shwedagon Pagoda?
November to February; late afternoon to evening
Is there an entry fee for Shwedagon Pagoda?
About 20,000 MMK for foreigners Opening hours: Daily, about 4:00 to 22:00
What should I wear when visiting Shwedagon Pagoda?
Shoulders and knees covered; barefoot on the platform
Which religion is Shwedagon Pagoda sacred to?
Shwedagon Pagoda is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship.
