A stunning gold pagoda that stands in stark contrast of the Yangon skyline, Shwedegon Pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist pagoda in all of Burma. It holds this significance because of the relics of the past four Buddha’s which are housed within. They are the water filter of Konagamana, a piece of the robe of Kassapa, the staff of Kakusandha, and eight hairs of the last Buddha, Gautama.

According to the legend that surrounds the temple, Shwedegon Pagoda is around 2500 years old though there is some skepticism regarding this date especially from archeologists.

There are four approaches to climb this pagoda, all of which lead to the same central platform. Two of the entrances feature vendors who sell a variety of items including images of the Buddha, gold leaf, good luck charms, prayer flags and more. Each entrance is also guarded by an impressive pair of mythological lions. 

Before reaching any of the entrances all visitors must remove their shoes in the customary tradition. But this temple also has strange modern flair as each of the entrances features its own elevator and the less used western entrance is also equipped with escalators.

When traversing around the temple visitors will also be privy to the sites of various religious rituals taking place including people walking around the stupa and people praying outside.

Being closely related with the religious beliefs of the people of Myanmar, Shwedegon Pagoda has become one of the most important historic sties in Yangon. Guests staying at Traders Hotel, Yangon will have ample opportunity to access this vital destination due to the hotels proximity to vital transport links.