Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple: A Picturesque Place to Explore Burmese Buddhism
Nestled in the small village of Mingun in Myanmar, Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple is a picturesque temple that is a must-visit for travelers exploring Burmese Buddhism. The temple, dedicated to the fourth and most venerated of the five Buddhas of the Theravada tradition, is composed of a large seated Buddha statue, a surrounding compound, and many smaller structures.
History of Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple
The Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple was built in the late 1800s and is believed to be the first pagoda in Burma to be constructed from brick and mortar. The temple is named after the ‘Great Reclining Buddha’, which is the largest and most impressive structure in the compound. The temple was built by the Konbaung Dynasty to commemorate the 24th anniversary of the coronation of King Bodawpaya.
What to See at Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple
The Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Myanmar and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Burmese Buddhism. The main attraction of the temple is the impressive ‘Great Reclining Buddha’, which is the largest and most impressive structure in the compound. The Buddha statue is 25 meters long and stands at 8 meters tall, making it an impressive sight to behold.
In addition to the Great Reclining Buddha, the Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple also contains other structures and artifacts that are worth exploring. The temple’s surrounding compound is filled with smaller structures, shrines, and statues that are also worth visiting. The compound is also home to an array of flowers and trees that make the temple a pleasant and picturesque place to explore.
How to Get to Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple
The Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple is located in the small village of Mingun, which is located about 10 kilometers from Mandalay. The easiest way to get to the temple is by taking a taxi or bus from Mandalay. It is also possible to take a boat from Mandalay to Mingun, although this is a longer journey.
When to Visit Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple
The Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple is open year-round and can be visited at any time. However, the best time to visit is during the winter months of November to February, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller.
Final Thoughts
Ngahtatgyi Buddha Temple is a must-visit for anyone exploring Burmese Buddhism. The temple is home to an impressive ‘Great Reclining Buddha’, as well as many smaller structures and artifacts that are worth exploring. The temple is located in the small village of Mingun and can be easily accessed by taxi or bus from Mandalay. The best time to visit is during the winter months of November to February, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller.