Sule Pagoda Overview
The over 2,000 years old Sule Pagoda is located in the center of Yangon and is an important venue for religious ceremonies and political affairs. The pagoda is said to enshrine a strand of Buddha's hair which was given to two Burmese merchant brothers.
The history of the Sule Pagoda can be traced back to some 2,000 to 2,500 years ago. It was initially built in an Indian temple style but was changed with Burmese elements when Yangon was redesigned by the British invaders in the mid-19th century. It is said that Sule Pagoda was once used by the British as the center for the grid layout of the city. The main stupa, in an octagonal shape, is surrounded by smaller stupas, bronze bells, and shrines containing Buddha images. There are eight Buddha images representing each day of the week (Wednesday represents two days). Local people pray to the shrine belonging to the day of their birth.
The pagoda is a good starting point for exploring the city. It is adjacent to the Mahabandoola Park housing colonial-style High Court and City Hall, and the lively Indian Town and Chinatown are also within walking distance.
Tips: Sule Pagoda is open from 4 am till 10 pm. You need to leave our footwear (including our socks) at the racks prepared for the visitors.
