About Shwesandaw Pagoda
Rising prominently from Bagan's archaeological zone, Shwesandaw Pagoda stands as one of the most significant religious monuments in Myanmar's ancient capital. Built in 1057 by King Anawrahta, this pyramidal temple commemorates the king's acquisition of Buddha relics, including sacred hairs and teeth, which are enshrined within its core.
The pagoda's distinctive terraced design features five receding levels that symbolize the five sections of the Sulamani pagoda in Buddha's paradise. Each square terrace is adorned with terracotta plaques depicting scenes from the Jataka tales—stories of Buddha's previous lives. Visitors ascend via steep staircases on all four sides, though modern conservation efforts have restricted climbing to protect the structure.
Once called the "sunset temple," Shwesandaw was renowned as a premier viewpoint for watching the sun sink behind Bagan's temple-studded horizon. Its elevated position offers panoramic vistas across the vast archaeological plain where thousands of pagodas and temples emerge from the misty landscape.
The whitewashed exterior, crowned by a bell-shaped stupa, stands in elegant contrast to the earthy tones of the surrounding plains. Unlike many Burmese pagodas that have been repeatedly restored, Shwesandaw retains much of its original architectural integrity, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the engineering prowess of 11th-century Bagan.
For both pilgrims and travelers, Shwesandaw represents a pinnacle of Myanmar's spiritual and architectural heritage, embodying the enduring Buddhist devotion that has shaped the country's cultural identity.