About Soon Oo Pon Nya Shin Pagoda
Soon Oo Pon Nya Shin Pagoda stands majestically atop Sagaing Hill, overlooking the Irrawaddy River near Mandalay in central Myanmar. Built in 1312 by Minister Pon Nya, this ancient Buddhist temple is one of the earliest structures on Sagaing Hill and remains a central landmark among the area's hundreds of white and gold stupas and monasteries.
The name translates to "early accomplished wish pagoda," reflecting its founding legend of fulfilling the minister's spiritual aspirations. The temple's main stupa features classic Myanmar Buddhist architecture with its bell-shaped design covered in gold leaf that gleams brilliantly in the sunlight.
Visitors reach the pagoda via a covered stairway of 215 steps, though a road also provides access. The climb rewards pilgrims with panoramic views of the Irrawaddy River, Mandalay city, and the surrounding landscape dotted with countless white and gold pagodas that make Sagaing famous as a spiritual center.
Inside, the temple houses several Buddha images, including a 30-foot seated Buddha. The walls feature colorful murals depicting Buddhist stories and Jataka tales. Four smaller stupas mark each corner of the main terrace.
As part of the sacred Sagaing Hills complex, Soon Oo Pon Nya Shin continues to draw both devout Buddhist pilgrims and travelers seeking to experience Myanmar's profound spiritual heritage and breathtaking religious architecture.
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