Mandalay Mingun

Page Down Page Up  Back to Thumbnails Myanmar Map List Myanmar Photos Page 6 of 13

Mantara Gyi Pagoda, destined to become the largest pagoda in the world, sadly only became the largest brick pile in the world.  

It was intended to tower to a massive 500feet.  Thousands of slaves and prisoners of war were pressed into service.  Building was halted in 1813.  As none of his 122 children or 208 grandchildren shared his vision, it remained unfinished. 

As visibility was poor we opted not to remove our shoes and climb to the top.

In 1838, an earthquake caused the upper levels to collapse into the hollow base.  Today the edifice stands at only a third of it's intended height.  We walked around the base to the back where we were the only visitors and where the slaphappy crew with the whitewash had omitted  to paint the entrance.  

 

Beyond the village is the pretty white Hsinbyume Pagoda.  Built in 1816 by Bogyidaw in honour of his favourite wife, for whom it is named.  The seven terraces with wavy walls lead to the central stupa.   A single Buddha image is at the top of a steep stairway.  This too suffered substantial damage in the 1874 earthquake.    King Mindon had it rebuilt in 1974.

Ploughing along the riverside. 

 You are welcome to visit the home for the aged behind these walls.
Page Down Page Up  Back to Thumbnails Myanmar Map List Myanmar Photos Page 6 of 13