Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple
Marvel at Myanmar's colossal 66-meter reclining Buddha, a breathtaking icon of serene beauty and spiritual devotion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at Myanmar's colossal 66-meter reclining Buddha, a breathtaking icon of serene beauty and spiritual devotion.
"The reclining Buddha is truly magnificent and offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere."
👗 Dress Code: Shoulders & Knees Covered
Always wear modest clothing out of respect. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the temple grounds. :dress:
💰 Donations Appreciated
Entry is free, but small donations are welcome and help maintain this beautiful spiritual site. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Reclining Buddha
Main Hall
A colossal 66-meter reclining Buddha, renowned for its serene expression and intricate details.
Expressive 'Sweet Eyes'
Buddha's Face
Marvel at the Buddha's striking glass eyes and delicately painted features, earning it the nickname 'Sweet Eyes Buddha'.
Sacred Symbols on Feet
Buddha's Feet
Examine the soles of the Buddha's feet, adorned with 108 auspicious symbols representing Buddhist cosmology.
Thep Than Jai Shrine
Behind the Buddha
Make a wish at Thep Than Jai, a shrine where visitors can seek blessings and offer prayers for good fortune.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly for Reverence
Best Time to Beat the Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Code: Shoulders & Knees Covered
Always wear modest clothing out of respect. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the temple grounds. :dress:
💰 Donations Appreciated
Entry is free, but small donations are welcome and help maintain this beautiful spiritual site. :moneybag:
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the magnificence! Photography is generally permitted, allowing you to document your visit. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Yangon can be very humid. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Code: Shoulders & Knees Covered
Always wear modest clothing out of respect. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the temple grounds. :dress:
💰 Donations Appreciated
Entry is free, but small donations are welcome and help maintain this beautiful spiritual site. :moneybag:
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the magnificence! Photography is generally permitted, allowing you to document your visit. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Yangon can be very humid. Carry water, especially if visiting during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the Buddha; take time to wander the temple grounds and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking scale and serene beauty of the 66-meter reclining Buddha at Chaukhtatgyi Temple. The intricate details, especially the 'Sweet Eyes' and the sacred symbols on its feet, are highlights. The temple's peaceful atmosphere offers a welcome escape, making it a must-visit for its spiritual significance and impressive artistry.
"Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple is a must-visit gem in Yangon! The 66-meter reclining Buddha is truly breathtaking, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and serene beauty.
The temple's tranquil atmosphere invites contemplation, making it a perfect escape from the city's hustle.
Don't miss the stunning glass eyes and the intricate details of the Buddha's feet, featuring 108 sacred symbols.
The temple is open 24/7, allowing visitors to experience its charm at any time. Remember to dress modestly and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. A visit here is not just sightseeing; it's a spiritual journey! 🌟"
Aung Po Po (Po)
"Chaukhtatgyi Reclining Buddha is the third-largest reclining Buddha in Myanmar, located in Yangon. The Buddha statue is incredibly beautiful, measuring 65 meters long and 16 meters high. One of its most special features is its very large and expressive eyes, which add to its majestic appearance. Walking to the back, you will find Thep Than Jai, where visitors can ask for blessings and make wishes.
The reclining Buddha is truly magnificent and offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can also climb the stairs at the back of the Buddha to take stunning pictures, providing a unique perspective of this grand statue. I highly recommend visiting this temple for those interested in Buddhist culture and history or simply to admire its beauty and tranquility."
ChuLuxe Explorer
"Visited on November 15, 2024
Today, I had the chance to visit Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple in Yangon, and it was an absolutely stunning experience. The temple is home to a massive reclining Buddha statue, which is the highlight of the site and truly breathtaking.
The reclining Buddha at Chaukhtatgyi is enormous—66 meters long—and beautifully crafted. Its serene expression and the intricate details, especially on the soles of the feet with 108 sacred symbols, were fascinating. Standing in front of such a grand statue, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm and reverence. The colors and design of the Buddha make it visually striking, and it’s a sight I’ll never forget.
The temple’s peaceful atmosphere was one of the best parts of my visit. It wasn’t crowded, and the gentle sound of chanting and the aroma of incense created a tranquil setting. Watching the locals offering flowers and prayers gave me a deeper appreciation of the space as a living, spiritual place.
Getting to the temple was straightforward, and entry was free, though I left a small donation. The grounds were well-kept, and there were shaded areas where I could sit and take in the atmosphere. It was nice to see that photography was allowed, so I could capture some memories without feeling intrusive.
Dress Code: Make sure to wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees.
Best Time to Visit: I went before lunch and it is very humid outside.
Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple is a must-visit if you’re in Yangon. The reclining Buddha alone is worth the trip, and the peaceful environment made it a perfect escape from the city. It’s a place I’d definitely recommend to anyone visiting Myanmar."
Janu-Rey Sebastian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services from most parts of Yangon. It's a popular destination, so most drivers will know the way. Consider using apps like Grab for convenience.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark. Just mention 'Chaukhtatgyi Reclining Buddha' to your driver, and they should be able to take you directly there.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are the most common and convenient. For a more local experience, you could try local buses, but this requires more planning.
Yes, there is usually parking available for taxis and private vehicles.
Depending on traffic, it typically takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the temple from downtown Yangon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the temple is generally free. However, donations are highly encouraged to support the temple's upkeep and activities.
The temple is famously open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to experience its serene atmosphere at any time.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime.
Visitors must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. This is a strict requirement for entry into the sacred grounds.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside and around the temple complex, allowing you to capture the magnificent statue.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time to admire the Buddha, explore the grounds, and perhaps make a donation.
The colossal 66-meter reclining Buddha is the main attraction. Also, don't miss the detailed glass eyes and the 108 sacred symbols on the soles of its feet.
Crowds can vary. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends or peak tourist seasons.
While official guides might not always be present, local devotees or younger people may offer to share information, sometimes for a small tip.
The atmosphere is generally peaceful and serene, with many visitors engaging in quiet contemplation or prayer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no food stalls or restaurants directly within the temple complex itself. It's best to eat before or after your visit.
You'll find local eateries and restaurants in the surrounding neighborhoods. Ask locals for recommendations for authentic Burmese cuisine.
While water is usually fine, it's best to avoid bringing food into the main prayer areas out of respect.
Yes, many Burmese restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Look for curries and vegetable-based meals.
Popular dishes include Mohinga (fish noodle soup), Laphet Thoke (tea leaf salad), and various curries.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, allowing you to capture the impressive scale and details of the reclining Buddha.
While generally allowed, be mindful and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially when people are praying or meditating.
The front of the Buddha offers a grand perspective. You can also get unique shots from the stairs at the back, looking down at the statue.
It's advisable to check on-site for any specific rules regarding tripods or professional equipment, though casual photography is usually fine.
Early morning light can be beautiful, but the temple is also well-lit, making it suitable for photography throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep children comfortable. While there are no specific play areas, the peaceful environment can be a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and religions. Bringing a small water bottle is advisable, as it can get warm. The experience offers a unique educational moment about Buddhist art and devotion.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to explore the details, from the 'Sweet Eyes' to the 108 sacred symbols on the feet. Consider visiting the Thep Than Jai shrine to make a wish or offer a prayer. The temple's 24-hour accessibility means you can visit during dawn or dusk for a particularly tranquil and atmospheric experience, allowing for a more personal connection with the sacred space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Reclining Buddha
Beyond its sheer size, the statue holds deep spiritual significance. The soles of the Buddha's feet are intricately decorated with 108 sacred symbols, each representing different aspects of Buddhist cosmology and enlightenment. Visitors often marvel at these details, seeing them as a testament to the Buddha's journey and teachings. The temple itself serves as a vital center for Buddhist worship and contemplation, attracting devotees and tourists alike who come to pay their respects and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Many visitors find the experience of standing before such a grand and peaceful effigy to be profoundly moving. The sheer scale combined with the serene countenance invites a sense of awe and reverence. It's not just a tourist attraction but a living place of worship, where the gentle sounds of chanting and the aroma of incense contribute to a deeply spiritual ambiance.
Experiencing the Temple's Atmosphere
Beyond the main hall, the temple complex offers shaded areas where visitors can sit, reflect, and absorb the surroundings. It's common to see locals offering flowers and prayers, providing a glimpse into the living faith practiced here. This interaction with local devotion adds another layer to the visitor's experience, making it more than just sightseeing but an immersion into the local culture and spirituality.
For those seeking a deeper connection, the 'Thep Than Jai' shrine located behind the main Buddha statue is a popular spot for making wishes and seeking blessings. This interactive element allows visitors to participate in the spiritual practices of the temple, making their visit more personal and memorable.
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