Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda, Yangon Overview

Nga Htat Gyi is a small Buddhist Pagoda located close to the city of Yangon in Myanmar. It is known for the large seated image of the Buddha, which is built in five-storeys. Although not very popular among the tourists, it is worth checking out the pagoda if you wish to go off the beaten path in Yangon to visit the largest seated Buddha in the town.

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Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda History & Significance

Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda was constructed in the 1910s after the large seated image of the Buddha was completed in 1900. Also called the five-storeys Buddha, the 16-meter high statue is in the famous Bhumisparsha mudra meaning Calling the Earth to witness. The pagoda has been renovated many times over time, adding to the grandeur.

Architecture

The walkway on all four sides leading to the temple is decorated with paintings, which also depict the Buddhist versions of heaven, hell and tales from the Jataka. A large iron pavilion houses the image of the Buddha inside the temple. The Buddha is white and wears a golden robe. The statue sits on a pedestal, and rear end of the state is wooden, heavily ornamented with precious stones and gems. The dome in golden colour surrounding this statue is topped with a multi-tiered hti.

There are many small statues of various Buddhist saints and gods, along with murals in the background. Outside the main complex are smaller pagodas, and also the living quarters of the monks.