Lawkananda Pagoda
11th-century gilded pagoda on the Irrawaddy River, housing a replica of Buddha's tooth relic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Lawkananda Pagoda
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
11th-century gilded pagoda on the Irrawaddy River, housing a replica of Buddha's tooth relic.
"A peaceful spot to enjoy sunset views and spiritual reflection by the Irrawaddy River."
👣 Mind the Hot Stones
The stones around the pagoda get extremely hot. Stick to the white marble paths to protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
The sunset views from Lawkananda Pagoda are truly magical. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation. :city_sunset:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buddha's Tooth Relic
Home to a revered replica of the Buddha's tooth relic, a significant draw for Buddhist pilgrims.
Irrawaddy River Views
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the majestic Irrawaddy River from this riverside stupa.
Sunset Serenity
A peaceful spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the plains and river, perfect for reflection.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lawkananda Pagoda
Understanding Lawkananda Pagoda's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👣 Mind the Hot Stones
The stones around the pagoda get extremely hot. Stick to the white marble paths to protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
The sunset views from Lawkananda Pagoda are truly magical. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation. :city_sunset:
🐟 Feed the Fish
You can feed the large fish in the nearby lake, a simple yet enjoyable activity. :fish:
🛍️ Local Sellers Present
Expect local sellers around the pagoda. While it can be a bit busy, it's part of the local atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
👣 Mind the Hot Stones
The stones around the pagoda get extremely hot. Stick to the white marble paths to protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
The sunset views from Lawkananda Pagoda are truly magical. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation. :city_sunset:
🐟 Feed the Fish
You can feed the large fish in the nearby lake, a simple yet enjoyable activity. :fish:
🛍️ Local Sellers Present
Expect local sellers around the pagoda. While it can be a bit busy, it's part of the local atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
🧘♀️ Meditate & Pray
The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for reciting mantras and meditating. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lawkananda Pagoda is appreciated for its serene riverside location and the spiritual significance of housing a replica of the Buddha's tooth relic. Visitors enjoy the beautiful sunset views and the peaceful atmosphere, ideal for meditation. However, some note that the pagoda can be crowded with local sellers, and the stones underfoot can get extremely hot.
"The pagoda is currently under renovation, so we weren’t able to explore it fully. However, the surroundings offer a peaceful atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to recite mantras, meditate, and enjoy the sunset views."
Hnin Pwint Thaw Da
"Lawkananda Pagoda (Burmese: လောကနန္ဒာစေတီ - literally "the joy of the world") is a Buddhist stupa in Old Bagan. It was built on the banks of the Irrawaddy River during the reign of King Anawrahta. It contains a replica of the Buddha's tooth relic."
Denis Gorkun
"Well worth the hike from old to new Bagan. A big, imposing Pagoda on the river bank. It is a bit crowded with local sellers, but nothing out of the ordinary. The stones get extremely hot in your feet. Stay on the white marble."
nicolas lapoujade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lawkananda Pagoda is located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River in Old Bagan. Many visitors walk from Old Bagan, which is a pleasant hike. Alternatively, you can hire a horse cart or e-bike to reach the pagoda.
Public transport options directly to the pagoda are limited. Hiring a local e-bike or joining a guided tour that includes the pagoda is the most convenient way to get there.
While not a primary mode of transport for most visitors, the pagoda is situated on the Irrawaddy River, suggesting boat access might be possible, especially during festivals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific entry fees for Lawkananda Pagoda itself are not always mentioned, visitors to the Bagan archaeological zone typically need to purchase an entrance ticket. Check current regulations upon arrival.
Pagodas in Bagan are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
Yes, as with all Buddhist temples and pagodas in Myanmar, you must remove your shoes and socks before entering the sacred grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the pagoda, enjoy the serene river views, meditate, recite mantras, and feed the fish in the nearby lake. It's also a popular spot for sunset viewing.
The pagoda can get crowded, especially with local sellers and during peak tourist times. Visiting early or late can offer a more peaceful experience.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, out of respect for the religious site. Comfortable footwear is recommended as you'll be walking barefoot on hot stones.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking intrusive photos.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to use restrooms before arriving or at your accommodation, as amenities can be limited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small food stalls at the foot of the pagoda selling items like tea, grilled shrimp, and corn on the cob.
You can find local snacks and drinks, including tea, pea rice with fried egg, and fried baby shrimp fritters.
Many visitors enjoy the local snacks as a quick bite while exploring. Exercise caution and choose freshly prepared items.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hour light beautifully illuminates the pagoda and the Irrawaddy River.
The pagoda itself, the views of the Irrawaddy River, and the surrounding landscape during sunrise or sunset are prime photography subjects.
Be mindful of worshippers and avoid taking photos that might be considered disrespectful. Always ask for permission if photographing individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
📸 Photographers
Capturing the iconic hot air balloons rising over the plains during sunrise is a must-do. The pagoda's architecture, its riverside setting, and the surrounding landscape provide diverse photographic opportunities. Remember to be respectful of worshippers while capturing your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Lawkananda Pagoda
Visitors often describe the surroundings as peaceful, ideal for reciting mantras. While some travelers might find many temples in Bagan to be similar, Lawkananda offers a unique spiritual connection due to the relic it enshrines. It's a place where the historical grandeur of Bagan meets living religious practice, providing a profound experience for those seeking spiritual solace or a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture.
Experiencing Bagan's Sunrises and Sunsets
While popular viewpoints exist, Lawkananda Pagoda provides a more tranquil setting to appreciate these natural wonders. The golden hour light casts a warm glow over the pagoda and the Irrawaddy River, creating a picturesque scene. It's an ideal spot for quiet reflection and photography, allowing you to soak in the majestic beauty of Bagan without the overwhelming crowds often found at other sunrise spots.
Navigating Bagan's Temples: Beyond the Obvious
To make the most of your temple exploration, consider focusing on a few key sites like Lawkananda, and perhaps exploring lesser-known temples for a more intimate experience. Renting an e-bike is a popular and efficient way to navigate the vast archaeological zone, allowing you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
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