Myanmar (Burma) — Shwedagon Pagoda (Paya), Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar (Burma)

The stunning pagoda in Yangon

March 2015

The Shwedagon Pagoda (Paya) is possibly THE tourist attraction in Yangon (Rangoon). When I visited in March 2015, it was busy and full of tourists.

Entry was free — there was a security check where I and my bag was scanned. But, as soon as I got to the platform of the pagoda, I was stopped by a staff member and directed to a ticket booth. The cost for ‘foreigners’ is 8,000 kyats (US$8; £6). You are also not allowed to wear shoes or socks at the shrine. My second sock-less holy shrine.

Two tips:

1. Take a bag for your shoes and socks, as the chance are you won’t leave the site by the same staircase you arrived.
2. Visit the pagoda either early morning or early evening; otherwise, you may burn your feet on the insanely hot marble (remember, no shoes and socks).

Photo by Author — my ticket for the Shwedagon Pagoda

The north entrance to the pagoda complex was impressive.

Photo by Author — north entrance to the pagoda complex

And after security, the main staircase led up to the pagoda platform.