Hsinbyume Pagoda

The Hinsbyume Pagoda is a breathtaking all-white structure situated on the bank of the Irrawaddy River, very close to the Mingun Pagoda and Mingun Bell. It was built in 1816 by King Bagyidaw to commemorate his first consort and his cousin, Princess Hsinbyume who died in childbirth in a site nearby.

Hsinbyume Pagoda

Different from other pagodas in Myanmar, the pagoda is deeply linked with the legendary Mount Meru, the centre of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. Seven wavy terraces representing the seven mountain ranges and oceans around Mount Meru lead up to the stupa at the top, which represents Mount Meru itself. All the way along are niches containing small statues of mythological figures such as various nat (spirits), ogres, and naga serpents, and the gold spire enshrines a Buddha image. Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda to enjoy the cravings and the details of the building, get nice views of the surrounding landscape and take some gorgeous photos. Do not forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses. The sunlight there can be blinding, especially at noon.