Ananda Temple

Ananda Temple

The Ananda Temple was built in 1105 AD by King Kyanzittha of the Pagan Dynasty. The entire temple complex is square-shaped, housing four golden Buddha statues, each facing one of the four cardinal directions: east, west, south, and north.

At the heart of the temple stands the Ananda Pagoda, which rises over 70 meters tall and is pale yellow in color, presenting a majestic sight. The base of the pagoda is a large square Indian-style Buddha cave, with a door on each of the four sides—east, west, south, and north. Each door houses a standing Buddha statue approximately ten meters high. In addition, the outer walls of the Ananda Temple feature thousands of small and large Buddha statues and colorful terracotta relief carvings depicting Jataka tales. The main stupa is surrounded by numerous smaller stupas, Buddha statues, as well as various animal and mythical creature sculptures—all exquisitely crafted. The temple is renowned as the most beautiful architecture in Bagan and is often referred to as the "Westminster Abbey of Burma."

The Ananda Temple was damaged by an earthquake in 1975 but has since been fully restored. The walls were also repainted and redecorated. In 1900, on the occasion of the temple’s 900th anniversary, the spire was gilded, adding to its resplendent golden glory.

Admission & Opening Hours

The Bagan Pass costs $10 and is purchased upon entry to Bagan. A photography fee of 30–100 kyat is required if you wish to take photos inside the Ananda Pagoda.

Transportation

It is best to go by horse cart, which also allows you to visit other nearby stupas. A private car rental costs around 9,000 kyat per day.

Ananda Temple

Must-visit reason: The most beautiful architecture in Bagan

Continent: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region: Myanmar[Myanmar]

Province/State: Mandalay Region [Mandalay Region]

City: Bagan [Bagan]