Tales of a restless suitcase #5: Surreal Shwedagon

A last minute business trip gave me a chance to visit Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the largest city of Myanmar. Until 2006, it was the capital of Myanmar until the military government moved it to Naypyidaw.

Yangon is home to the most beautiful pagoda my eyes have ever laid on. Housing a gilded stupa, Shwedagon Pagoda Complex, is the most sacred Buddhist worship site of the country. Swarm of Buddhist devotees have flocked to this famous place of worship since it was built in the 6th century.

^{This is my entry to #smartphonephotography contest hosted by @juliankBe sure to click the image to view fullscreen! ♥ Iphone 6+ | f/2.2 | 1/17sec |ISO-320 |}

Shwedagon Pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar, as it is believed to contain relics of the four previous Buddhas of the present kalpa. These relics include the staff of Kakusandha, the water filter of Koṇāgamana, a piece of the robe of Kassapa, and eight strands of hair from the head of Gautama. Please follow this link for the source.

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At the center of the complex is a massive 99 meter high gold plated pagoda. It is said that 7,000 diamonds make up the spire set on top. I was mesmerized. It was one of the most magical structure I have ever seen. Our tour guide also shared that the pagoda is visible in almost every part of Yangon. He likened it to a shimmering beacon that decorates Yangon's night sky. I witnessed it for myself later that night while having dinner.

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Just a the sun had set over the horizon, the complex brought forth a mystical ambiance, as numerous spotlights set strategic places of the pagoda aglowed. The blend of prayer chants, solemn atmosphere, and aroma of candles and incense made the experience more surreal.

^{Be sure to click the image to view fullscreen! ♥ Iphone 6+ | f/2.2 | 1/17sec |ISO-250 |}

I made sure to take as much photo as my smartphone can. I was in such a hurry that I forgot to pack my camera. I was only given less than a week's notice to prepare for the trip. Worst is, the travel dates fell on my birthday. Secretly, I was quite upset about it at first. But then, life proved that it always has ways to turn things around. I was lucky to see the gorgeous landmark on an all expense paid business trip! In the end, I felt blessed and I learned a lot from the tour.

By the way, my friend @wincee also shared an entry about Shwedagon Pagoda when she went on a solo backpacking trip to Myanmar (I know, she is so cool! I haven't tried solo backpacking!). You can check it out here.