Shwesandaw Pagoda
A historic 1057 AD Buddhist pagoda in Bagan, once famed for its panoramic sunset and sunrise views from its five terraces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Experience tranquility before crowds.
Shwesandaw Pagoda
Best Time
Experience tranquility before crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1057 AD Buddhist pagoda in Bagan, once famed for its panoramic sunset and sunrise views from its five terraces.
"The view from Shwesandaw Pagoda offers a nice pagoda field landscape."
🚶 Steep Climb Ahead!
Be prepared for a steep ascent up the stairs. It's worth the effort for the views!
📸 Photography Focus
The pagoda's symmetry and steep stairs offer great portrait opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Grandeur
Main Pagoda Structure
Marvel at the 1057 AD construction, featuring five distinct terraces and a striking stupa. A testament to Bagan's ancient kingdom.
Panoramic Pagoda Field
Top Terraces (viewing areas)
Even with restricted climbing, the surrounding views offer a glimpse of Bagan's vast temple landscape.
Historical Significance
Pagoda Grounds
Built by King Anawrahta, this pagoda is a cornerstone of Bagan's rich history and Buddhist heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunrise & Sunset Views (Past & Present)
Navigating Bagan's Temples
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Steep Climb Ahead!
Be prepared for a steep ascent up the stairs. It's worth the effort for the views!
📸 Photography Focus
The pagoda's symmetry and steep stairs offer great portrait opportunities.
🚫 No Climbing Allowed
Visitors can no longer climb the terraces for sunset/sunrise views.
📍 Local Eatery Nearby
Find delicious fritters under a large tree a few clicks away. Locals flock there!
A Morning in Bagan
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Steep Climb Ahead!
Be prepared for a steep ascent up the stairs. It's worth the effort for the views!
📸 Photography Focus
The pagoda's symmetry and steep stairs offer great portrait opportunities.
🚫 No Climbing Allowed
Visitors can no longer climb the terraces for sunset/sunrise views.
📍 Local Eatery Nearby
Find delicious fritters under a large tree a few clicks away. Locals flock there!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shwesandaw Pagoda is admired for its historical significance and striking architecture, offering a glimpse into Bagan's past. While climbing for iconic sunset views is no longer permitted, its symmetry and the surrounding pagoda field still provide a worthwhile visual experience. Visitors note the steep climb and potential crowds, suggesting alternative pagodas for unobstructed panoramic views.
"Shwesandaw Pagoda (ရွှေဆံတော်ဘုရား) is the tallest Buddhist pagoda in Bagan that was built in 1057 by King Anawrahta (Bagan’s founder). The pagoda contains a series of five terraces, painted with white from the 3rd terrace to the top and topped with a cylindrical bell-shaped stupa
The view from Shwesandaw Pagoda offers a nice pagoda field landscape. Climb up from the stairway to reach the top terrace and soaking in a panoramic view of Bagan’s ancient city. We went there on the afternoon for sunset and it totally worth it!"
saydoppa
"It had have a long time fame of permitting for seeing sunset view once but now it can't be due to long term mantainance.Great scene of portrait view it have with wide green lawn and steep stairs of old temple for photography enthusiast."
Philips Drakuza
"Good view but it's so crowded here. There are plenty of other pagodas with less people and equally good view from the top. Not good for sunset since you have all the buses and parking lot in the picture...better for sunrise."
Karo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shwesandaw Pagoda is located in the heart of Bagan. The most common way to get around Bagan and reach the pagoda is by renting an e-bike or bicycle. Taxis are available but less common for short distances within the temple complex.
Currently, ride-sharing services like Uber or Grab are not widely available in Bagan. It's best to arrange transportation locally, often through your accommodation or by renting your own vehicle.
If your accommodation is nearby, walking is an option. However, Bagan is vast, and many visitors opt for e-bikes or bicycles to cover distances between temples.
Yes, guided tours are a popular option for exploring Bagan's numerous temples, including Shwesandaw Pagoda. This can be a convenient way to learn about the history and culture.
Renting an e-bike or bicycle is highly recommended for exploring the wider pagoda field and visiting other sites around Shwesandaw Pagoda.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Bagan Archaeological Zone entrance fee is required to visit most of the temples and pagodas, including Shwesandaw. This fee covers access to the entire zone for a specified period.
While specific hours can vary, pagodas in Bagan are generally accessible from early morning until sunset. It's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date information.
Unfortunately, climbing the terraces of Shwesandaw Pagoda for sunset or sunrise views is no longer permitted due to maintenance and preservation efforts.
Ticket prices can change, but typically range from $15-$25 USD for a multi-day pass. It's best to confirm the current price upon arrival.
Tickets are usually purchased at designated entry points or ticket booths upon entering the Bagan archaeological area.
📸 📸 Photography
The pagoda's symmetrical structure and steep staircases offer excellent opportunities for portrait photography. The surrounding landscape also provides a beautiful backdrop.
While climbing for direct sunrise/sunset views is prohibited, the pagoda itself is beautiful in the golden hour light. Consider nearby pagodas that may still allow climbing for panoramic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can illuminate the ancient brickwork beautifully.
Drone usage is generally restricted in archaeological zones to protect the heritage sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the pagoda and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be good for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be direct restaurants at the pagoda itself, local eateries and food stalls are scattered throughout the Bagan archaeological zone.
Look out for local fritters (pakode) – there's a highly recommended spot under a large tree a short distance away that locals frequent.
Many Burmese dishes can be adapted to be vegetarian. Local restaurants are usually accommodating, and you can find vegetable curries and stir-fries.
Generally, street food is safe if you choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices. The fritter spot mentioned is a local favorite.
Food prices are generally affordable, especially at local eateries. Expect to pay a few dollars for a meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the historical aspect and the sheer number of temples. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. The nearby local fritter spot is a great, simple treat that kids often enjoy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour light, both in the early morning and late afternoon, bathes the ancient brickwork in a warm glow, creating dramatic and evocative images. Explore the grounds for different angles and perspectives. Remember to respect the site and any restrictions in place.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Eating at local eateries and street food stalls, like the recommended fritter vendor, will keep food costs low. Many of the most rewarding experiences in Bagan, like exploring the temples, are free once the entrance fee is paid.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Shwesandaw Pagoda
For centuries, visitors and locals alike would ascend its steep staircases to witness the magical transformation of the sky over the vast plains dotted with thousands of ancient temples. This tradition cemented Shwesandaw's reputation as one of Bagan's most iconic landmarks. While access to the upper terraces is now restricted for preservation, the pagoda's architectural beauty and historical narrative continue to draw visitors eager to connect with Bagan's glorious past.
Understanding its history enriches the experience, transforming a visit from simply seeing a structure to appreciating a piece of living history. The pagoda stands as a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires, a testament to the enduring spirit of Burmese culture and Buddhism.
Navigating Bagan: Transportation and Exploration
While taxis are available, they are less practical for hopping between numerous smaller temples. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Grab are not yet established in Bagan, so pre-arranging transport with your hotel or a local driver is advisable for longer journeys. Many visitors find that a combination of e-bike for longer distances and walking for exploring within temple clusters works best.
For those who prefer a more guided experience, guided tours are readily available. These tours often include transportation and an experienced guide who can share insights into the history and significance of each site, including Shwesandaw Pagoda. Regardless of your chosen method, comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
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