Sule Pagoda

The over 2,000-year-old Sule Pagoda is located in the center of Yangon and is an important venue for religious ceremonies and political affairs. The pagoda is said to enshrine a strand of Buddha's hair, which was given to two Burmese merchant brothers.

The history of the Sule Pagoda can be traced back to some 2,000 to 2,500 years ago. It was initially built in an Indian temple style but was changed with Burmese elements when the British invaders redesigned Yangon in the mid-19th century. It is said that the British once used Sule Pagoda as the center for the grid layout of the city. The main stupa, in an octagonal shape, is surrounded by smaller stupas, bronze bells, and shrines containing Buddha images. There are eight Buddha images representing each day of the week (Wednesday represents two days). Local people pray to the shrine belonging to the day of their birth.

The pagoda is a good starting point for exploring the city. It is adjacent to Mahabandoola Park, housing a colonial-style High Court and City Hall, and the lively Indian Town and Chinatown are also within walking distance.

Tips: Sule Pagoda is open from 4 am to 10 pm. You need to leave our footwear (including our socks) at the racks prepared for the visitors.

This sample itinerary offers a chance to visit the Sule Pagoda and other attractions in Yangon, such as the Shwedagon Pagoda, Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda, Kandawgyi Lake.