The central Buddha image is believed by locals to be one of only five likenesses created during the Buddha's lifetime.
Only men are permitted to enter the inner sanctum to apply gold leaf to the bronze statue.
The bronze statues looted from Cambodia are believed by many to possess healing properties when touched.
The temple complex includes a small museum displaying artifacts related to the site's history.
The image's face is ceremonially washed every morning before dawn by the chief monk.
The Mahamuni Pagoda houses a 3.8-meter tall bronze Buddha image, considered one of the most sacred sites in Myanmar. The statue's surface is distorted by decades of gold leaf application by male devotees, increasing its thickness by approximately 15 centimeters. The temple complex features a series of interconnected corridors leading to the central sanctuary. These walkways contain historical bronze statues looted from Angkor Wat in Cambodia by the Thai army in the 15th century and later brought to Myanmar. The main altar is housed under a seven-tiered roof constructed in the traditional Burmese style. The pagoda is the primary center of pilgrimage for Buddhists in Upper Myanmar. The complex includes a large water tank and various monastic buildings surrounding the main structure.
The view from the main entrance gates looking toward the gold-leaf-covered spire.
Bring a small bag for your shoes, as you must go barefoot from the moment you enter the temple grounds.
Observe the daily ritual of the face-washing ceremony if you can arrive early in the morning.
Women should watch the main ritual from the designated outer area or via the closed-circuit monitors provided.
Do not attempt to enter the inner sanctuary if you are female; do not leave shoes at the gate as you must carry them with you or place them in designated storage.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; remove all footwear and socks before entering the temple complex; women are restricted from the inner sanctum.
