Kuthodaw Pagoda (World's Largest Book)
Explore the 'World's Largest Book' at Kuthodaw Pagoda, a stunning complex of 729 white pagodas housing inscribed marble slabs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kuthodaw Pagoda (World's Largest Book)
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 'World's Largest Book' at Kuthodaw Pagoda, a stunning complex of 729 white pagodas housing inscribed marble slabs.
"A truly magical place with dazzling white structures creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere."
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Always remove your shoes before entering any pagoda area. It's a sign of respect.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. No shorts or mini skirts allowed for ladies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 729 Marble Slabs
Throughout the complex
Each slab, inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, is housed in its own white pavilion, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
The Central Golden Pagoda
Center of the complex
A beautifully maintained golden stupa stands as the focal point, radiating a sense of peace and grandeur.
Serene Gardens and Pathways
Surrounding the pagodas
Wander through peaceful gardens and along pathways, offering moments of quiet reflection amidst the historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly, Respect the Sacred
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Always remove your shoes before entering any pagoda area. It's a sign of respect.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. No shorts or mini skirts allowed for ladies.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Own Pace
Take your time to appreciate each of the 729 inscribed marble slabs.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
The white structures and unique layout make it a prime spot for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Always remove your shoes before entering any pagoda area. It's a sign of respect.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. No shorts or mini skirts allowed for ladies.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Own Pace
Take your time to appreciate each of the 729 inscribed marble slabs.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
The white structures and unique layout make it a prime spot for stunning photos.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Mandalay can get hot, so carry water, especially when exploring the grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kuthodaw Pagoda for its unique 'World's Largest Book' concept, the serene atmosphere created by its dazzling white structures, and its historical significance. It's highlighted as a prime spot for photography and a peaceful place for reflection. Some note the need for modest dress and the potential for heat during midday exploration.
"Kuthodaw Pagoda is a truly magical place with its dazzling white structures creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Known as the “world’s largest book,” it features 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, each housed in its own small pavilion. The layout is both impressive and unique, making it a remarkable site to explore. I"
Tibor
"Amazing historical landmark 👍
Its name translated literally means Royal Merit. It contains 729 tone-inscription caves, each containing a marble slab inscribed on both sides with a page of text from the entire book in Buddhist text.
You will find a magnificent tree with the compounds. Truly amazing!
Just remember that it's a space of prayer so you are required to dress modestly and remove your shoes.
Ladies, no shorts or mini skirts! ⚠️"
Fickle Travellers SG
"The largest stone book in the world is located in Kuthodaw Paya ("Pagoda of Great Merit"). It consists of 729 stone steles with Buddhist canons, that form the complete text of the Tripitaka. Each stella is located in a separate pavilion. Continuous reading will take approximately 450 days.
2,500 monks gathered in Mandalay in 1871 for the Fifth Buddhist Council, where they spent 5 months examining, collating and writing down the sacred texts of the Tripitaka. They decided to immortalize these sacred texts in stone, as a souvenir for posterity, and began construction, which lasted for 8 years. The craftsmen carved only 10 lines a day.
In 1900 the text from the stone steles was printed on paper resulting in 38 volumes of 400 pages each."
Denis Gorkun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kuthodaw Pagoda is easily accessible in Mandalay. You can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk from most parts of the city. Many visitors combine a trip here with other nearby attractions like Mandalay Hill. +1
Yes, Kuthodaw Pagoda is conveniently located near other popular sites such as Mandalay Hill and the Royal Palace, making it easy to plan a day of sightseeing.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around Mandalay and visit Kuthodaw Pagoda. Negotiate your fare beforehand.
If you are staying nearby, walking is an option, but Mandalay can be quite spread out and hot. Taxis or tuk-tuks are generally recommended for comfort.
The pagoda complex has multiple entrances. The main entrance is usually well-marked and leads directly into the central area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many sources mention it's a place of worship, specific entrance fees can vary. It's always best to check on-site for the most current information.
The pagoda is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Exact hours can vary, so it's advisable to confirm locally.
No advance booking is typically required for Kuthodaw Pagoda. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival if there is a fee.
Yes, a strict dress code is enforced. You must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas, but be respectful and avoid taking photos of people without permission. Some interior areas might have restrictions. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of white pagodas housing the marble slabs offer incredible symmetry and photographic opportunities. The central golden pagoda is also a stunning subject, especially during golden hour. 
Absolutely! The unique backdrop of the white stupas and inscribed slabs makes it a popular spot for portrait photography.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides the most beautiful light and softer shadows, enhancing the visual appeal. +1
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits if you plan to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the pagoda complex, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on the inscriptions. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
🎫 📖 The 'World's Largest Book'
It's called the 'World's Largest Book' because it contains 729 marble slabs, each inscribed with a page of the Buddhist scriptures (Tripitaka), housed in individual pavilions.
Reading all the inscriptions on the marble slabs would take approximately 450 days, highlighting the immense scale of the text.
The slabs are inscribed with the complete text of the Tripitaka, the central scriptures of Theravada Buddhism.
Construction began around 1860 and took 8 years to complete, with 2,500 monks involved in the collation and inscription process.
Originally, the dense writing was filled with golden ink and decorated. Over time, much of this has faded or been lost.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to manage expectations regarding the heat and the need for modest dress. Ensure children are dressed appropriately to avoid any issues with entry. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also advisable, as facilities might be limited. The peaceful atmosphere might be better suited for older children who can appreciate the historical and cultural significance.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the complex and the intricate details of the stone inscriptions. The contrast between the white pagodas and the blue sky is particularly photogenic. Be prepared for the heat and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day for the best light and comfort.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's also a great opportunity to interact with locals or other travelers if you wish, perhaps by hiring a tuk-tuk driver who can share insights. Remember to respect the local customs and dress code, which is essential for a respectful and enriching solo journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Kuthodaw Pagoda
The Fifth Buddhist Council was held in Mandalay in 1871, where 2,500 monks gathered to examine and collate the sacred texts. The decision to immortalize these texts in stone at Kuthodaw Pagoda was a significant act of religious devotion and cultural preservation. The sheer scale of the project, with craftsmen carving only about 10 lines a day, underscores the dedication involved.
Today, Kuthodaw Pagoda stands not only as a testament to Buddhist faith but also as a remarkable feat of architectural and artistic endeavor. It's a place where history, spirituality, and impressive scale converge, offering visitors a profound glimpse into Myanmar's rich cultural heritage. The site is considered a pilgrimage destination and a significant historical landmark.
Photography Tips for Kuthodaw Pagoda
To capture the best shots, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light dramatically enhances the white structures and casts beautiful shadows, adding depth and mood to your photographs. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the complex and a telephoto lens to focus on the intricate details of the inscriptions or the central golden pagoda.
Remember to be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Dress modestly and avoid intrusive photography, especially of monks or worshippers. The serene atmosphere and the sheer visual impact of the 'World's Largest Book' provide ample opportunities for both grand architectural shots and intimate details.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit