“It stands out with its seven-story white architecture, representing the legendary Mount Meru, and the surrounding scenery, which offers a beautiful view of the Irrawaddy River.”
Hsinbyume Pagoda (Myatheindan Pagoda), located north of Mingun City, near the unfinished ruins of Mingun Pahtodawgyi Pagoda, was built in 1816 by King Bagyidaw to honor his late queen, Queen Hsinpyumin, who died after giving birth to his son.
The architecture is inspired by the legendary Loka Chulamani pagoda and is designed to represent Mount Sumeru, the center of the Buddhist universe. Surrounded by the Sattabhibhand, or Seven Mountains, it represents the seven levels of heaven and connects the earthly realm with the heavenly realm.
The pagoda's base features seven tiered terraces in a rippled white pattern. Each tier represents the name of one of the seven mountains: Yukandhara, Karavik, Isindhara, Yodok, Kantamadhana, Sobhit, and Vindaka. This design of the terraces not only serves aesthetic purposes but also has religious and cosmological significance, reflecting the belief in enlightenment and purity.
The pagoda was severely damaged by The great earthquake of 1839 left most of the original structure intact. Later, during the reign of King Mindon, a royal decree was issued to restore and revive the pagoda, which was restored to its former glory in 1874.
The pagoda's architecture is unique, with its white, wavy balconies and multiple steps, allowing visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views of Mingun and the Irrawaddy River.
Visitors can also admire the artistic motifs on the balconies, carvings, and small Buddha images in the pagoda's arches, each reflecting ancient Burmese art and Buddhist narratives.
The Shinpyume Pagoda is also a spiritual center for Burmese pilgrims and monastics. Visitors can make merit, light incense, and walk around the pagoda, believed to bring good fortune. It is also a popular photography landmark, as its pure white color reflects the beautiful sunlight both morning and evening.
How to Get There
By boat (highly recommended):
- Take a ferry from Mandalay Pier to Mingun. The journey takes approximately one hour. Boats usually depart around 9:00 AM and return at 12:30 PM.
By land:
- You can also charter a taxi or tuk-tuk (motorcycle taxi) from Mandalay to Mingun.
Travel Tips
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It's recommended to visit early in the morning or evening for beautiful light photography without the excessive heat.
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The pagoda's floor is made of white lime and gets very hot during the day. Please remove your shoes and bring socks/umbrellas.
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Dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.
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Bring drinking water and a camera, as this is one of the most beautiful views in Mingun.
Admission Fees:
- Included in the Mingun Historical Park admission ticket (approximately 5,000 Myanmar Kyat or around 100 Thai Baht), one ticket allows access to the Shinpyume Pagoda, Mingun Pagoda, and the Mingun Bell.
Opening Hours:
- Open to the public from sunrise (approximately 6:00 AM) until sunset (approximately 6:00 PM).