Shwesandaw Pagoda, Breathtaking Sunrise and Sunset Views

Shwesandaw, Bagan, Myanmar

The pagoda is also crowded with people

4.5

Introduction

The Sulamani Temple is an early Buddhist stupa in Bagan, built by King Anawrahta in 1057. Its name, "Golden Sacred Hair Relic", originates from the Buddha's sacred hair relic enshrined inside the stupa. Some believe it was also built to celebrate King Anawrahta's triumphant return. The stupa's base is shaped like a Mayan pyramid, standing 50 meters tall with five terraces, two brick-colored and three white like the tower. Spectacular sunsets can be viewed from the platform on the fifth terrace, which has become the best spot for visitors to watch sunrise and sunset. Additionally, there is a rectangular temple beside the stupa housing a reclining Buddha statue that is 20 meters long. However, due to the narrow entrance and small interior, visitors have to enter sideways. The Sulamani Temple is one of the representatives of Buddhist stupa. It is considered a symbol of the Buddha by many. The annual festival of lighting ceremony held in November is a celebration paying homage to Bodhisattvas. During the festival, visitors can witness the splendid sight of weaving red robes. However, in today's travel guides, the temple is often mentioned as the best place to watch sunrise and sunset in Bagan. Climbing to the top of the Sulamani Temple to watch the sunset requires climbing up steep stone steps, which is quite challenging and requires devoutness. Despite having a metal railing, visitors must still be careful not to fall. When standing at the top of the tower, one can experience the magnificent scene of visitors from different countries admiring the beautiful scenery together.