10 Things to Do at Mahazedi Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar
Located in the city of Bago, Mahazedi Pagoda is an awe-inspiring Buddhist temple complex that is a must-visit for any traveler to Myanmar. The temple is one of the most important religious sites in the country, and is believed to have been built in the 12th century by King Bayinnaung. Mahazedi Pagoda is a breathtakingly beautiful site, and there are plenty of things to do here to make your visit truly unforgettable. Here are the top 10 things to do at Mahazedi Pagoda in Bago, Myanmar.
1. Admire the Grandeur of the Pagoda
The first thing to do at Mahazedi Pagoda is to take in its sheer grandeur. The pagoda is a large complex of temples, stupas, and other religious structures, all of which are intricately decorated and awe-inspiring. The main pagoda is a massive golden stupa that stands at over 100 feet tall and is covered in thousands of tiny golden plates.
2. Explore the Many Temples
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex is home to a number of temples, each of which is unique and has its own special significance. The most famous of these is the Mahazedi Temple, which is believed to have been built by King Bayinnaung in the 12th century. Other temples in the complex include the Dhammazedi Temple, the Thamanya Temple, and the Shwegugyi Temple.
3. Learn About the History of the Pagoda
Mahazedi Pagoda is steeped in history, and there are many stories and legends associated with the site. Visitors can learn more about the history of the pagoda by visiting the nearby museum, which houses artifacts from the site and provides information about its past.
4. Visit the Monastery
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex also includes a monastery, which is home to a number of monks. Visitors can observe the monks in their daily activities, and may even be able to join in some of the religious ceremonies that take place here.
5. Enjoy the Views of Bago
Mahazedi Pagoda is situated on a hilltop, and offers spectacular views of the city of Bago and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions, making it a great spot for photography.
6. Take a Walk Around the Complex
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex is quite large, and a great way to explore it is to take a leisurely walk around the grounds. Here you will find a number of smaller temples and stupas, as well as beautiful gardens and ponds.
7. Buy Souvenirs
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex is a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of souvenir shops located around the site. Here you can buy a range of traditional items, such as lacquerware, wood carvings, and textiles.
8. Eat at the Local Restaurants
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex is also home to a number of restaurants, where you can sample traditional Burmese cuisine. Many of the restaurants here offer views of the pagoda, making them a great spot for a meal.
9. Attend a Festival
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, which are a great opportunity to learn more about Burmese culture and religion. Some of the most popular festivals include the Water Festival, the Thingyan Festival, and the Pagoda Festival.
10. Take a Boat Trip
The Mahazedi Pagoda complex is located on the banks of the Bago River, and a great way to explore the area is to take a boat trip. Here you can see the pagoda from a different angle, and spot some of the local wildlife that lives in the river.
Mahazedi Pagoda is a truly incredible site, and there are plenty of things to do here to make your visit truly unforgettable. Whether you want to explore the temples, admire the views, or take a boat trip on the Bago River, there is something for everyone at this spectacular Buddhist temple complex.