Dhammayazika Pagoda
A unique 12th-century pentagonal pagoda in Bagan, famed for its rare terracotta plaques depicting Buddha's past lives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Dhammayazika Pagoda
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique 12th-century pentagonal pagoda in Bagan, famed for its rare terracotta plaques depicting Buddha's past lives.
"A truly impressive and unique temple, a must-see in Bagan for its architecture and history."
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a local guide for deep historical context and broader understanding.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Gardens
Enjoy the beautiful park-like gardens surrounding the pagoda.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Five-Sided Architectural Marvel
Main structure
A rare pentagonal pagoda, offering a unique perspective compared to typical four-sided temples.
Terracotta Plaques of Buddha's Lives
Terrace walkway
Admire intricate terracotta plaques detailing the Jataka tales of Buddha's previous lives.
Bell-Shaped Golden Stupa
Top of the pagoda
A striking, large bell-shaped stupa, enhanced by recent restoration work.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unique Architecture
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a local guide for deep historical context and broader understanding.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Gardens
Enjoy the beautiful park-like gardens surrounding the pagoda.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique terracotta plaques and architectural nuances.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as it's a remote location.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a local guide for deep historical context and broader understanding.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Gardens
Enjoy the beautiful park-like gardens surrounding the pagoda.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique terracotta plaques and architectural nuances.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as it's a remote location.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dhammayazika Pagoda for its unique five-sided architecture and the fascinating terracotta plaques depicting Buddha's past lives. Its tranquil, remote setting offers a peaceful experience, though some note ongoing restoration work. It's considered a must-see for its distinctiveness and historical value.
"One can see rare terracotta plaques of Buddha stories. Located near Phwar Asaw village, quiet and the architecture is truly impressive. Shouldn’t miss temple to visit in Bagan."
GREEN SEASON TRAVEL - MYANMAR
"Charming pagoda, it's special as it has 5 sides compared to the usual 4. I've been there with a local guide Christopher and it was great to learn about the place from a local with a deep historical knowledge. Do yourself a favour and get a local guide for at least one day, it will make your travels so much more interesting and your horizons will broaden. :)"
Eva Praskova
"Dhammayazika Pagoda (ဓမ္မရာဇိကဘုရား) is a Buddhist temple that was build in King Narapatisithu (King Sithu II) reign in 1196. Located in the remote area of Bagan in Pwasaw village on the Eastside
Dhammayazika definitely standout from the crowd because of the large bell-shaped gold stupa with the red clipped on the based from the restoration work. You can walk around the brick structure pagoda through the walkway to admire the craftsmanship of ‘terra cotta’ on the terrace (Jakata tale’s of Buddha previous lives)"
saydoppa
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dhammayazika Pagoda is located in a more remote area east of Bagan, near Pwasaw village. Hiring a private car, e-bike, or joining a guided tour are the most common ways to reach it.
Public transport options are limited for this more remote pagoda. It's best to arrange private transport or a guided tour for convenient access.
Many visitors rent e-bikes for flexibility or hire a car with a driver for comfort. Consider a local guide for at least one day to gain historical insights.
It's situated a bit further out, requiring dedicated travel time. Factor in travel time when planning your itinerary.
Roads can vary in condition. While generally accessible, some paths might be unpaved, especially closer to the village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry to the Bagan archaeological zone, which includes Dhammayazika Pagoda, requires a purchased ticket.
Pagodas in Bagan are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to check for any specific local timings.
The cost is part of the Bagan archaeological zone entrance fee. Prices can vary, so check the latest rates upon arrival.
While generally open from dawn to dusk, visiting during cooler parts of the day is recommended for comfort.
Yes, as with all religious sites in Myanmar, modest dress is required. Cover your shoulders and knees.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique five-sided structure, the intricate terracotta plaques, and the bell-shaped stupa offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed in outdoor areas. Be respectful and check for any signs indicating restricted areas inside.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is often restricted in archaeological zones. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the architecture.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Dhammayazika Pagoda was built in 1196 during the reign of King Narapatisithu (King Sithu II).
Its most distinctive feature is its pentagonal layout, a departure from the common square floor plans of other pagodas.
These are rare plaques found on the terrace, depicting the Jataka tales, which are stories of Buddha's previous lives.
It was built to house sacred Buddhist relics gifted to King Narapatisithu by the King of Sri Lanka.
There have been reports of restoration work, particularly on the upper parts of the pagoda, but it generally doesn't interfere with visits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short and focus on the most visually interesting aspects, like the plaques. Hiring a guide might be beneficial to keep older children entertained with stories, but ensure they can adapt the narrative for younger attention spans.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers
Consider renting an e-bike to reach the pagoda at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous stops along the way. The remote setting also makes it a great place to practice mindfulness and photography without feeling rushed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens to capture both the grand scale of the pagoda and the fine details of the plaques. Early morning or late afternoon light will enhance the textures and colors, creating dramatic and memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Pentagonal Design
Exploring the pagoda involves walking around its perimeter, allowing visitors to appreciate the five distinct facades. The structure is crowned by a large, bell-shaped golden stupa, which has undergone restoration, adding to its visual appeal. The overall impression is one of grandeur and distinctiveness, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
Discovering the Terracotta Plaques
Visitors can take their time strolling along the walkway to admire these historical and artistic treasures. The detail and preservation of these plaques provide a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the 12th century. They are a testament to the craftsmanship of the era and a key reason why Dhammayazika is considered a significant historical site.
A Serene and Remote Experience
While its remote location means it requires a bit more effort to reach, the reward is a more authentic and less commercialized experience. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter connection with Bagan's rich history and spiritual heritage. The journey itself, through the less-traveled paths of Bagan, can also be an adventure.
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