Yele Pagoda (Kyauktan Pagoda), also known as the "Floating Pagoda" by the Mon people (because of its miraculous position amidst the water), has a history dating back over 2,000 years. However, the most widely told legend is that it was built during the Mon Empire by a wealthy, philanthropic Mon tycoon.

Legend says that the wealthy tycoon made three wishes during the construction of the pagoda:

• May the site be prosperous and attract a steady stream of worshippers.

• May the pagoda endure, even in the face of natural disasters.

• May the site of the pagoda remain unflooded, regardless of the river's high water levels.

And thanks to the power of faith and prayer, the pagoda has become a renowned "Miracle in the River" throughout Myanmar and the region. Despite the Yangon River (which joins the Hpaw and Ayeyarwady Rivers) experiencing rapid currents and seasonal high tides, the pagoda's base has never been completely submerged, attracting a steady stream of devotees from Burma, Mon, and abroad to witness the miracle and seek blessings.

Architecture and Interior Elements:

• Main Stupa: Built in a simple yet elegant Burmese-Mon architectural style, it features an octagonal base and a series of niches surrounding the base.

• Phra Upakut Vihara: Within the small island on which the stupa stands is enshrined the image of Phra Upakut, an Arahant in the alms-giving posture, also known as the "Conqueror of Mara." Burmese people revere Phra Upakut for protection and blessings of good fortune, wealth, and success in business. He is believed to reside in the middle of the ocean and often performs supernatural powers to aid his followers. Paying homage to Phra Upakut here is a major attraction, just like the main stupa.

• Surrounding Landscape: The small but well-managed island on which the stupa stands connects to the vihara and other worship spots around the island. Furthermore, the pier and surrounding stupa are home to a large school of catfish, which gather to await food from tourists. Pilgrims often purchase bread or fish food to toss to him as a form of merit-making and auspiciousness, in keeping with their beliefs.

Yele Pagoda is not only an ancient religious site but also a significant attraction. But it is also a center of faith in miracles and abundance, offering a unique travel experience, both in terms of history, architecture, and the beautiful act of making merit in the middle of the water.

• From Yangon, it takes about 1-2 hours by car (about 37 km) across the bridge to Syriam, from where you must take a ferry (a chartered boat for tourists) to the island in the middle of the water where the pagoda is located.

• Visit in the morning or evening for beautiful photos and less intense sunlight.

• Bring an umbrella or hat, as the waterfront area can be quite sunny during the day.

• Remove your shoes before entering the pagoda area.

• Exchange Kyat (Kyat) for admission and boat rental fees.

• Bring incense, candles, and flowers for worship, as well as fish food to make merit by feeding the fish around the island.

Admission Fees:

The cost is divided into two main parts: the entrance fee and the boat fee.