Lemyethna Temple, also known as the "Four-Faced Temple," is one of the most important and finest examples of late Bagan architecture.

Construction History:

• The temple was built in 1222 or 1223, during the reign of King Htilominlo (1211-1235).

• It was built by Anandathura, a court official. Evidence of its construction and prayers are recorded on stone inscriptions still in the temple grounds.

• The construction of Lemyethana Temple is considered one of the last large-scale temple projects constructed during the Bagan Kingdom's decline.

Architecture and Structure:

• The temple is a single-story vihara, a common design in the late period.

• The building is square with projecting porticoes in all four main directions, with the main entrance on the east.

• The principal chedi sits in the center, housing four Buddha images facing each other, back to back, facing the four main directions.

• The most striking feature is the white exterior walls, unlike most of Bagan's red brick temples, which give the temple a unique and clean appearance.

Murals and Relics:

• The interior of the temple is brighter than other temples, and many of the original murals remain, although some have been damaged during the restoration by white plastering.

• These murals depict Buddhist stories, such as the 28 Buddhas of the past and stories from the 500 Jataka tales.

• The inscription indicates that Ananda Dhuriya placed the Buddha's relics in a carved sandalwood casket, then a crystal casket, then a red sandalwood casket, then a gold casket, then a silver casket, and finally a small stone pagoda with a gold spire.

Past Significance:

• Wat Ley Myatna was not merely a single temple but the center of a large monastery complex comprising over 50 subsidiary buildings (most of which are made of easily degradable materials, leaving only ruins). This demonstrates the temple's former religious and social center in the region.

• From Bagan, rent an electric bicycle, motorbike, or car to the Nyaung-U area, near Minnanthu village.

• The area around Lemyethana Temple is located in the ancient ruins area, making it a convenient stopover for other temples along the same route.

• It's recommended to visit in the morning or evening, as the grounds around the temple can be very hot during the day

• Wear shoes that are easy to remove, as you may need to remove your shoes to enter and exit the temple.

• Respect the local rules—some areas around the stone base are off-limits to women, so check before entering.

• It's also worth visiting the nearby temples in Minnanthu to make the most of your time.

Admission Fees:

• Included in the Bagan Archaeological Zone Pass

Opening Hours:

• Open for viewing all day long