When travellers visit the Bagan-NyaungU ancient cultural Zone, NyaungU Township, Mandalay Region, they can study the architecture of Maha Bawdi Pagoda, which was built by King Nadaung in 1215 AD.
The pagoda was built by King Nadaung in 1215 AD and is believed to have been built in the style of the Maha Bawdi Pagoda in Budh Gaya, where the Bodh was born. It can be seen that the lower part is built in the shape of an Indian temple, and the upper part is built in a pyramid shape.
The large statue inside the archway cave is a post-renovation work, and there is a small staircase to go up to the upper floor.
On the east wall of the upper floor arch, visitors can study the inscriptions of the Inwa era.
Maha Bawdi Pagoda is a two-terrace building with a height of 140 feet.
There are small pagoda models in all four corners of the pagoda.
According to historical evidence, both the base and the upper part of the pagoda have many small wall portals, and it can be observed that 465 Buddha images are placed in different postures.
To the north of the Maha Bawdi Pagoda are the Lacquerware College (Bagan) and the Ayeyawady River.
To the east of the pagoda is the Tharapa Gate.
To the south of the pagoda are Aung Myay Gone Palace where the Kings Anawrahta and Kyansittha lived, Pittaka Building, and Taphatkya Pagoda.
To the west of the pagoda is Bu Pagoda.
According to officials of the Department of Archeology and National Museum (Bagan Branch), 3,822 pagodas with different construction styles in Bagan Ancient Cultural Zone can be studied.—Depar Lin/KZL
