Sagaing Hill is more than just a scenic spot; it is also a center of Myanmar's dharma and historical life, a place of immense significance. Located on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River, approximately 20 kilometers from Mandalay, Sagaing Hill is a center of profound spiritual life and history.

History and the Sagaing Kingdom

Although Sagaing was only a short-lived capital (1315-1364) after the fall of the Bagan Kingdom, it established a strong religious foundation, escaping worldly turmoil and maintaining a continuous Buddhist presence for hundreds of years.

The Devotional Hub

Sagaing Hill is nicknamed the "City of Dharma Practitioners" or "City of Victory." The hill is home to over 600 monasteries and meditation centers and is home to over 6,000 monks and nuns who study and practice Vipassana meditation, creating a truly tranquil and devotional atmosphere.

Important pagodas and temples to visit

Beyond the overview of the hill, lined with white and gold-topped pagodas, there are other highlights worth exploring in more detail:

Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda:

• Highlights: Located on the highest peak, this is one of the oldest pagodas, built in 1312.

• Importance: People come to worship and enjoy the 360-degree views, encompassing the Ayeyarwady River, Ingwa Bridge, and the entire pagoda field on Sagaing Hill.

U Min Thonze Pagoda:

• Highlights: Architecturally striking, its crescent-shaped temples, or caves, are built along the length of the hill.

• Importance: Inside the temple, 30 Buddha images, arranged in a beautiful and charming posture, are a unique and iconic photo spot on Sagaing Hill.

Kaungmudaw Pagoda:

• Highlights: Although not directly on the hill, it is located nearby and resembles a The large semicircular (opal-shaped) stupa differs from the typical bell-shaped pagodas in Myanmar.

• Importance: Built during the reign of King Taluun in the 17th century to house the relics of the Buddha, it is one of the most magnificent and striking architectural works in the area.

The ascent of Mount Sagaing is a spiritual journey, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the fervent faith of the Myanmar people while admiring the sweeping views of the river and forest surrounding this ancient city.

• Rent a taxi/private car with a driver or rent a motorbike from Mandalay; it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to cross the Yadanabon Bridge to Sagaing.

• Best time to visit: Arrive in the morning to avoid the heat, or in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset at U Min Thon Tse Pagoda.

• Dress Code: As this is a sacred site, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Shoes and socks must be removed before entering any temple or pagoda area.

Admission Fees:

• Typically, entry into Sagaing City and nearby tourist attractions is charged a combined fee for foreign tourists of approximately 8,000 kyat (MMK) for a combined ticket valid in the Sagaing and Mingun regions.

Opening Hours:

• As the hill is a religious center with numerous monasteries, access to the main hill area may be open 24 hours, but major temples have their own closing hours, typically from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (or until sunset). Plan your visit during the daytime to easily access the main pagodas.

• There were reports of a major event in the Sagaing region in 2025 (the March earthquake), which damaged pagodas and buildings, and the situation was insecure in the area.

  Highly recommended: Before traveling, check the latest information from reliable travel sources, airlines, or tour operators for the time of your trip to ensure the safety and operation status of key attractions on Sagaing Hill.