Thiho Shin Pagoda

Myanmar (Burma)


Pakokku's mains Buddhist temple couldn't be any different to the often staid and zestless temple ruins of Bagan. Built by King Alaungsithu some 800 years ago (but much rebuilt since), everything here pops, dazzles and glitters. Much of the interior is covered in tens of thousands of tiny glass tiles that reflect the light. There's a small and fairly uninspiring museum (free) at the far end of the large courtyard.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Myanmar (Burma) attractions

1. Shwe Ku Pagoda

1.18 MILES

The Shwe Ku pagoda is famed for its Tangetawgyi buddha image and the stunningly intricate wood-carved backdrop full of filigree and depictions of spirits…

2. Sapada Paya

13.86 MILES

A handy landmark when arriving in Nyaung U.

3. Thanakha Gallery

14.24 MILES

Claiming that it’s the ‘Only One Thanakha Gallery in the World’, this sizeable complex has a small gallery devoted to the myriad medicinal and cosmetic…

4. Shwezigon Paya

14.46 MILES

At the western end of Nyaung U, this big, beautiful zedi (stupa) is the town’s main religious site, and is most famous for its link with Myanmar's main…

5. Kyanzittha Umin

14.68 MILES

Although officially credited to Kyanzittha, this cave temple may actually date back to Anawrahta. Built into a cliff face 270yd southwest of Shwezigon,…

6. Wetkyi-In-Gubyaukgyi

14.95 MILES

Just west of Nyaung U and about 330ft east of Gubyauknge, this detailed off-the-main-circuit, 13th-century temple has an Indian-style spire, like the…

7. Gubyauknge

15.04 MILES

Off Anawrahta Rd, almost a mile east of Htilominlo, this temple from the early Bagan period has some excellent stucco carvings on the outside walls …

8. Nan Myint Tower

15.15 MILES

This silo-shaped building, part of the Tay Za–owned Aureum Palace hotel, has a 9th-floor restaurant and an observation deck on the 12th floor, which…