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First Sacred Hair Relic Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar
Yangon - Botataung Pagoda
All these news about Myanmar makes you think how much can change in a year. Last year, Myanmar was finally opening up to the rest of the world. Tourists, entrepreneurs, and other people from all walks of life are eager to experience and know more about this country. It was even flagged as one of those must visits for that year. It should be, of course, because it’s such a nostalgic spot and there’s almost nothing like it.
Without any much effort, the country is really rich in culture and history. Even in the most simple and sacred of things, you will see the richness of Myanmar. Like the First Sacred Hair Relic Pagoda in Botahtaung, Yangon.
The first thing that you’ll notice,
after going through a series of market mazes outside the vicinity, is the
temple like entrance of the place. Barefooted people coming and going, praying
and staring at the emblems of faith around the area. It’s an open space plump
of sacred art and religious artifacts.
When you head towards the pagoda, you’ll perceive that it would be a whole new feature inside, as the steps show much opulence and reverence. There is no sign of poor quality or even shortage here as everything you’ll see is covered in gold. From walls, to locks, even the coconuts displayed are covered in gold.
In the middle of this prosperity
labyrinth you will find the highpoint of everything else here: Buddha’s Sacred Hair Relic. It is
covered in glass and locks and money offerings. It’s quite small. But, it is
enshrined and exhibited in an ivory shrine studded and decorated with pure
gold, diamonds, and precious jewels. Outside, you will find some spillage of gold and holiness. It’s definitely the place that will make you doubt or even question the reality and disarray that you may hear about Myanmar. It’s a quiet place. A comfort zone, perhaps. It’s a great reminder that Myanmar is rich, not only with culture and faith, but potential and future as well.
[MYANMAR TRAVEL] Read the rest of Explore Myanmar Travel Blog Series:
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