Dhammayangyi Temple
The most massive structure in Bagan commissioned by King Narathu, the “king killed by Indians.”
Narathu was relentless when he oversaw the temple’s construction, often executing masons and workers during the construction period when the bricks are not aligned and perfectly fitted with each other. This is the reason why the stonework and the bricklaying of the temple are considered the best and the most intricate in all of Burma. Sadly, he never witnessed the completion of his temple. The king was assassinated by 8 Indian officers sent by neighbouring Pateikkaya kingdom as revenge for killing its princess who was one of his wives at the time.
The incomplete temple features 4 seated Buddhas accessible through four entrances. The Western sanctum houses the statues of Gautama Buddha and the Buddha of the future that will bring peace and complete enlightenment to the world, with the Maitreya Buddha positioned side by side. The temple is the largest in the region of Bagan, Narathu planned such a large temple to atone for his sins, since his road to succession involved him killing his father, King Alaungsithu and his older brother, Min Shin Saw. From afar, the humongous structure can be seen with a massive square base complemented by six receding terraces as roofing. Due to its unfinished construction and authorities deserting its condition, most parts of the temple are closed to the public due to safety issues.
Location
The temple is located in the Old Bagan in Nyaung-U.
Opening Days and Hours
Opens daily until 17:00.
Entry Fee and Bookings
You must pay MMK 25,000 (USD 15) as Archaeological Entrance Fee.
How to Get There
- Fly to Bagan via Air KBZ, Golden Myanmar Airlines, and Myanmar National Airlines.
- Rent a taxi to Bagan town centre.
- Rent a bicycle to Dhammayangyi Temple.
Suggested For
- Solo travelers/backpackers
- Couples
- Groups
- Families
Time to Spend
Suggested time in this duration is 1 hour.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
The best time to explore Dhammayangyi Temple is between 9:00 and 11:00.
Food
Dining options around Bagan include 7 Sisters Restaurant, Sanon Training Restaurant, Kyaw Kitchen, Bagan Zay, Weather Spoon’s Restaurant and Bar, and Ma Mae Naing.
Nearby Attractions
- Gawdaw Palin
- Bu Paya
- Sulamani Temple
Stay
When it comes to accommodations, you can visit Bagan Thande Hotel, The Hotel Temple View, The Hotel at Tharabar Gate, Bagan Hotel, Royal Bagan Hotel, Kaday Aung Hotel, and Zfreeti Hotel. Rates range from USD 23 to USD 75.