Shwemawdaw Pagoda receives 360,000+ domestic, 10,000+ foreign tourists in 2023

According to Shwemawdaw Pagoda Board of Trustees’ member U Tin Aung Myint, more than 360,000 domestic travellers and 10,000 foreign tourists visited the Shwemawdaw Pagoda in 2023. Renovation works have been developed at the Bago’s Shwemawdaw Pagoda since 2022, aiming for more convenience for travellers, especially for the elders. The renovation projects include the installation of the escalator and the versatile renovation of the over 100-year-long Kyaukpadaung religious hall and golden monastery.
U Tin Aung Myint said, “Flocks of pilgrims from various cities and towns all over the country mostly visit on weekends. Last year, over 360,000 pilgrims from different towns and cities and over 10,000 foreign visitors visited the pagoda. We have arranged accommodation for the visitors as well.”
The Shwemawdaw Pagoda once fell in 1917 due to the earthquake. Pilgrims and visitors mostly visit to observe the King Dhammazedi bell that was built in 833 ME, Bilu Yannaing Stupa located on the upper platform of the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, and Yekkha Meldaw. The Buddha Pujaniya and offering ceremony to 500 Buddhist monks are usually held in the month of Tagu. — ASH/ TMT