About Mya Thein Tan Pagoda
Rising majestically near Mingun along the Irrawaddy River, the Mya Thein Tan Pagoda (also known as Hsinbyume Pagoda) stands as one of Myanmar's most visually striking religious monuments. Constructed in 1816 by Crown Prince Bagyidaw as a memorial to his beloved first consort, Princess Hsinbyume, this architectural masterpiece captivates visitors with its unique design.
Unlike traditional golden stupas, this pagoda is distinctively white, featuring seven undulating terraces that represent the sacred mountain ranges surrounding Mount Meru in Buddhist cosmology. These wave-like structures create a dreamlike appearance, particularly beautiful when illuminated by morning or evening light.
The brilliant white exterior, created with whitewashed plaster, forms a dramatic contrast against Myanmar's blue skies. Each level is adorned with mythical guardian figures and intricate carvings that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of 19th-century Burmese artisans.
Visitors ascend through the curved terraces via stairways, ultimately reaching a central stupa that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the flowing Irrawaddy River below. The pagoda's otherworldly appearance has made it increasingly popular with photographers and travelers seeking Myanmar's most distinctive religious sites.
Mya Thein Tan stands as both a monument to royal love and an exceptional example of Burmese Buddhist architectural innovation.
.jpg)
.jpg)
