About Ananda Temple
The Ananda Temple stands as one of the most revered and architecturally impressive Buddhist temples in Bagan, Myanmar. Built around 1105 CE during the reign of King Kyanzittha of the Pagan Dynasty, this magnificent structure represents the pinnacle of early Burmese temple architecture and has been nicknamed the "Westminster Abbey of Burma."
The temple's design follows a perfect cruciform layout with four identical entrances facing the cardinal directions. Its elegant silhouette features a central golden sikhara (spire) rising to about 51 meters (167 feet), surrounded by smaller spires and terraces that create a symmetric, pyramidal structure. The architecture uniquely blends Mon, North Indian, and local Burmese influences.
Ananda houses four colossal standing Buddha statues, each 9.5 meters tall and positioned facing north, south, east, and west. Each Buddha represents a different historical Buddha who has achieved enlightenment. The temple's exterior walls feature nearly 1,500 glazed terracotta tiles depicting scenes from the Jataka tales (stories of Buddha's previous lives).
The temple has survived centuries of earthquakes and neglect, including significant damage during the 1975 earthquake, but has undergone careful restoration. Its name "Ananda" refers to Buddha's cousin and devoted disciple, reflecting its importance as a center for Buddhist devotion.
Visitors to Ananda Temple are struck by its perfect proportions, exquisite craftsmanship, and serene atmosphere. As an active place of worship for over 900 years, it continues to draw both pilgrims and tourists, remaining one of Myanmar's most significant religious and cultural treasures.
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