10 Things to Do in Shwe Maw Daw Monastery, Bago Myanmar
Shwe Maw Daw Monastery, located in Bago, Myanmar, is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is a large complex of temples, shrines, and monasteries that were built in the 11th century by King Anawrahta. The monastery is home to many sacred relics, including a tooth relic of the Buddha and a footprint of the Buddha. It is also home to a large number of monks who live in the monastery. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Shwe Maw Daw Monastery.
1. Explore the Temples: The main temple of the monastery is the Shwe Maw Daw Pagoda, which is the tallest pagoda in the complex. There are also many other temples and shrines in the complex, including the Maha Bodhi Temple, the Maha Thut Pagoda, and the Maha Dhamma Pagoda. Visitors can explore the temples and shrines and admire the intricate architecture and artwork.
2. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic: The most important relic in the monastery is the Buddha Tooth Relic, which is housed in the Maha Bodhi Temple. The relic is believed to be a tooth of the Buddha and is highly revered by Buddhists. Visitors can view the relic and pay their respects.
3. Visit the Footprint of the Buddha: Another important relic in the monastery is the footprint of the Buddha, which is located in the Maha Thut Pagoda. The footprint is believed to be a footprint of the Buddha and is highly revered by Buddhists. Visitors can view the footprint and pay their respects.
4. Attend a Buddhist Ceremony: Shwe Maw Daw Monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and many ceremonies are held in the monastery. Visitors can attend a ceremony and observe the rituals and customs of Buddhist monks.
5. Explore the Monastery Grounds: The monastery grounds are home to many statues and sculptures of Buddhist figures. Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the artwork and architecture.
6. Visit the Museum: The monastery has a museum that displays many Buddhist artifacts and relics. Visitors can explore the museum and learn more about Buddhism and its history.
7. Shop for Souvenirs: The monastery has many shops selling souvenirs and Buddhist artifacts. Visitors can shop for souvenirs and take home a piece of the monastery.
8. Take a Boat Ride: The monastery is located on the banks of the Bago River and visitors can take a boat ride down the river and admire the scenery.
9. Hike to the Mountains: The monastery is located at the foot of the mountain range and visitors can hike up the mountains and admire the views.
10. Enjoy the Local Food: The monastery is home to many restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Burmese food. Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine and sample the delicious dishes.
Shwe Maw Daw Monastery is a beautiful and sacred site that is well worth visiting. Visitors can explore the temples, shrines, and monasteries, view the relics, attend ceremonies, explore the grounds, shop for souvenirs, take a boat ride, hike to the mountains, and enjoy the local food. There is something for everyone at Shwe Maw Daw Monastery.