Height
99 metres (325 ft) crowning Singuttara Hill
Gold Covering
Covered in genuine gold plates weighing tonnes
Crown Jewels
Encrusted with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies
Opening Hours
4:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily
The Holiest Buddhist Shrine in Myanmar
Dominating the skyline of Yangon from the crest of Singuttara Hill, Shwedagon Pagoda is the spiritual nucleus of Myanmar. According to Buddhist tradition, the pagoda was founded over 2,500 years ago when two merchant brothers from Burma met Gautama Buddha in Bodh Gaya and were gifted eight sacred strands of his hair, which are enshrined deep within the relic chamber.
Architecture and Gold Plating
Rising 99 meters into the tropical sky, the stupa is covered from base to spire in authentic gold plates donated by monarchs and generations of ordinary citizens. The umbrella crown (hti) at the very pinnacle is encrusted with 5,448 brilliant-cut diamonds, 2,317 rubies and sapphires, crowned by a single 76-carat diamond that catches the last rays of the setting sun.
Planetary Posts & Traditional Rituals
Around the octagonal marble terrace are eight 'Planetary Posts' corresponding to the day of the week a person was born (Wednesday is split into morning and afternoon). Burmese Buddhists walk clockwise, locate their birth post, and pour small cups of holy water over the Buddha statue and planetary guardian animal (e.g. Garuda for Sunday, Tiger for Monday, Elephant for Wednesday) for blessings and merit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for Shwedagon Pagoda?
Visitors must be barefoot (shoes and socks must be removed at the base elevator/stairs). Wear clothing covering shoulders and knees (traditional Burmese Longyi wraps can be purchased or rented at the entrance).
What is the best time to visit Shwedagon?
Arrive at 5:00 PM. Watch the golden stupa glow in the setting sun, followed by the enchanting illumination as thousands of oil lamps are lit around the marble terrace after dusk.