Gawdawpalin Temple
A magnificent 12th-century Buddhist temple in Bagan, known for its towering pagoda and serene golden Buddha statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Gawdawpalin Temple
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 12th-century Buddhist temple in Bagan, known for its towering pagoda and serene golden Buddha statues.
"A beautiful and quiet place to enjoy the nature and history."
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. :pray: It's a sign of respect for the sacred site.
Explore Quietly
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Fewer tourists mean a more serene experience. :dove:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Pagoda
Central Bagan
A magnificent 12th-century pagoda, meticulously restored and standing tall as a testament to ancient architecture.
Golden Buddha Statues
Inner Sanctum
Four immense golden Buddha statues radiate serenity, offering a powerful spiritual and visual experience.
Intricate Exterior Decorations
Outer Walls
Admire the unique style and beautiful decorations adorning the temple's exterior, showcasing ancient craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Gawdawpalin
Understanding Bagan's Temple Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. :pray: It's a sign of respect for the sacred site.
Explore Quietly
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Fewer tourists mean a more serene experience. :dove:
Learn the History
Understand the temple's origins and restoration for a richer visit. :scroll:
Capture the Details
Focus on the unique decorations and statues for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. :pray: It's a sign of respect for the sacred site.
Explore Quietly
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Fewer tourists mean a more serene experience. :dove:
Learn the History
Understand the temple's origins and restoration for a richer visit. :scroll:
Capture the Details
Focus on the unique decorations and statues for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gawdawpalin Temple is praised for its impressive architecture, well-preserved state, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a serene escape from larger crowds. Visitors appreciate its historical significance and beautiful decorations, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Bagan's ancient wonders.
"Gaw Daw Palin Phaya, dating back to A.D. 1203, is a beautiful and well-preserved temple with impressive architecture. It’s a great place to explore and offers a glimpse into Myanmar’s rich history. A worthwhile stop for those visiting the area."
Tibor
"Very quite and peaceful temple, there’re less tourist around and just a few people who selling writings. It’s a beautiful and quite place to enjoy the nature."
Carlos
"We visited 20.November.2016.
King Nayapati sithu ,he has wronged his father and grandparents in the past . So he apologized them for his sin at the place at which Pagodas was built for remembrance.
He passed away while the Temple has not been completed yet, and his son King Zay ya thein ka continued to finish construction of temple.( By the history of stone letter)"
Myo Myint oo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gawdawpalin Temple is located in the heart of Old Bagan. You can reach it by e-bike, horse cart, or taxi from most accommodations in Bagan. Many visitors rent e-bikes to explore the temple complex freely.
Yes, Gawdawpalin is one of the more prominent temples and is relatively easy to locate within Old Bagan. It's often marked on local maps and GPS devices.
Renting an e-bike is a popular and convenient way to explore multiple temples, including Gawdawpalin, at your own pace. Horse carts offer a more traditional experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to purchase an archaeological zone pass to enter Gawdawpalin Temple and other ancient sites in Bagan. This pass is typically valid for a set number of days.
Gawdawpalin Temple is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to check locally for any specific timings, though most temples follow these hours.
The price of the Bagan archaeological zone pass can vary. It's best to check the latest official rates upon arrival, as they are subject to change.
Access to climb temples in Bagan, including Gawdawpalin, has become restricted in recent years to preserve the ancient structures. Check for any designated viewing areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, the four golden Buddha statues inside, and the surrounding plains offer great photographic opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the temple's beauty.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful, especially inside the inner sanctums. Avoid using flash photography directly on the Buddha statues.
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing Gawdawpalin Temple.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Gawdawpalin Temple was constructed in the 12th century, specifically dating back to A.D. 1203, during the reign of King Nayapati Sithu.
It was built as a place of apology and remembrance by King Nayapati Sithu for past wrongdoings. His son completed the construction after his passing.
Yes, Gawdawpalin Temple was significantly damaged in the 1975 earthquake but has since been meticulously restored and is considered one of the best-maintained temples in Bagan.
The temple is noted for its impressive architecture, unique exterior decorations, and its status as the second tallest temple in Bagan.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While climbing is restricted, the open spaces around the temple can provide some room for kids to move. It's best to visit during cooler parts of the day. The historical context, explained simply, can also make the visit more educational. Remember that Bagan is a vast archaeological site, so managing expectations for younger children is key.
🚶 Solo Travelers
It's a great spot to connect with the spiritual side of Bagan and observe the local culture. The relative quietness means you can spend as much time as you like admiring the architecture and the golden Buddhas. It’s also a good place to meet other travelers if you choose to, or simply enjoy your own company amidst history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of Gawdawpalin
Architecturally, Gawdawpalin is renowned for its impressive scale and intricate details. It is recognized as the second tallest temple in Bagan, a testament to the advanced engineering and artistic capabilities of the era. The temple's exterior is adorned with beautiful decorations and exhibits a unique style that sets it apart from many other structures in the plain. Its meticulous restoration after the devastating 1975 earthquake has ensured its survival and current state of preservation, making it one of the most well-maintained temples for visitors to admire today.
Experiencing Gawdawpalin's Serenity
The temple's serene environment is further enhanced by its beautiful decorations and unique style. The quietude provides an ideal setting for reflection and photography, allowing visitors to capture the essence of Bagan's ancient heritage. It’s a place where one can truly connect with the history and spiritual significance of the site, making it a worthwhile stop for those seeking a more profound experience amidst the vast temple landscape of Bagan.
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