【Bagan Mahabodhi Temple】

The Mahabodhi Temple is a representative Indian-style pagoda in the Bagan area. It was built in the 13th century (around 1215) and was presided over by King Htilominlo of the Bagan Dynasty. The Mahabodhi Temple was built with reference to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, which is the holy place where Buddha attained enlightenment. Although the scale of the Bagan version is not as grand as the Indian version, it retains the essence of the Indian prototype. The Mahabodhi Temple symbolizes the cross-cultural integration of the spread of Buddhism and showcases the diverse religious art of Bagan as the "City of a Thousand Pagodas." 📝The Mahabodhi Temple has a square base and a main body of a stepped pyramid structure that narrows layer by layer, with a spire (Sikaro-style top) standing on the top. The outer walls of the temple are covered with more than 450 niches, each of which houses a seated Buddha, forming a dense geometric beauty. The edges of the niches are decorated with intricate stucco reliefs featuring lotus, gods, mythical beasts and other Buddhist elements. In the center of the main hall is a golden seated Buddha statue with a serene look, reflecting the late Bagan style of statues. There are some faded murals remaining on the inner walls of the temple, depicting some Buddhist stories, but due to their age, their preservation is limited and requires careful observation. There is a viewing platform on the middle level of the temple, from which you can climb up and overlook the pagodas on the Bagan Plain. The view is magnificent, especially at sunrise and sunset. 【📍Location and 🚗Transportation】 ✔️The Mahabodhi Temple is located in the core area of ​​the ancient city of Bagan, close to the Nyaung U-Bagan Road in Old Bagan. ✔️It is recommended to rent an electric car or motorcycle, which is free and flexible. There is a parking spot next to the temple. ✔️The carriage is suitable for multiple people and you can experience the traditional way of travel. ✔️If you have enough energy, you can choose to ride a bicycle, but be careful to wear sunscreen. 【🕰️Visiting time】 Opening hours are 8:00-18:00 every day, and the visiting time is about 1 hour. It is recommended to avoid noon and go there in the early morning or evening when the light is soft and suitable for photography. 【🎫Tickets】 Tickets to the temple are included in the Bagan Pass (do not lose the pass, carry it with you for inspection). 【📷Photography suggestions】 1⃣ Panoramic angle: The open space on the southeast side of the temple can be used to shoot the overall structure, and the effect is better with the sunrise backlight. 2⃣Close-up of details: Focus on the relief carvings on the niches and the patterns on the exterior walls, and use side light to highlight the three-dimensional effect. 【📌Small trips】 ✔️You need to be barefoot to enter the temple, and it is recommended to bring wet wipes to clean your feet. ✔️ Clothing must cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing. 【✏️Nearby attractions】 1⃣Ananda Temple: One of the most exquisite temples in Bagan, with white spires and golden tops complementing each other. 2⃣Thatbyinnyu Temple: The tallest pagoda in Bagan, where you can climb up and overlook the panoramic view. 3⃣Shwesandaw Pagoda: A popular sunset viewing spot, about a 10-minute drive from Mahabodhi Temple.