Kuthodaw Pagoda is a remarkable Buddhist complex at the base of Mandalay Hill in Myanmar, known worldwide as the home of “The World’s Largest Book.” Built in 1859 by King Mindon, the pagoda was created as part of his effort to preserve the entire Buddhist Canon in a permanent form during a time of political instability.

At the heart of the pagoda are 729 marble stone slabs, each engraved on both sides with text from the Tipitaka — the sacred Pali Canon of Theravāda Buddhism. Each slab is about 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide, and is housed within a small white stupa (called a Dama Ceti). These stupas are arranged in perfect order within three enclosures spanning 13 acres of land, forming a sacred literary monument.

The breakdown of the inscriptions is as follows:

• 3 books of the Sutta Pitaka — on 410 marble slabs

• 5 books of the Vinaya Pitaka — on 111 marble slabs

• 7 books of the Abhidhamma Pitaka — on 208 marble slabs

• 1 slab recording the history of the inscriptions

The central golden pagoda, Maha Lokamarazein, stands 30 meters tall and was modeled after the Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan. A 730th slab, found in the southeast corner, explains the origin and construction of this immense work.

The pagoda not only serves as a sacred site of reflection and learning but also as a testament to Myanmar’s spiritual resilience and cultural pride. The effort to inscribe the scriptures took eight years to complete, with all texts originally gilded in gold leaf.

Only 15 minutes by tuk-tuk or taxi from Mandalay’s city center. It's near other key sites like Mandalay Palace and Mandalay Hill.

• Remove shoes and socks before entering

• Dress modestly: cover knees and shoulders

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and great photos

• Take time to explore each marble slab and appreciate the symmetry and detail

Admission Fee:

• Included in the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket (approx. 10,000 Kyat), valid for multiple heritage sites including Kuthodaw

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM