How to describe something like this? You just have to see it for yourself. The landmark of Yangon and Myanmar is located in the north of the city, towering over the city on a hill. We entered the complex through the southern of the four entrances. There is a side entrance specifically for non-Buddhists or Westerners. Stairs and escalators lead up to the actual temple.
The entire marbled main level, with the main stupa in the center, covers over 6 hectares and is lined with countless small temples, Buddha statues, and smaller stupas. The central main stupa is about 6.5m high and is covered with about 60 tons of gold. Diamonds and rubies of immeasurable value are embedded in its top. Although it was undergoing renovation and fully scaffolded during our visit, it has not lost any of its legendary elegance. We strolled clockwise around the central stupa, taking in the mystical atmosphere. This led Philipp to want to pray. He joined a singing woman in one of the small temples, clasped his hands together in prayer pose, and sat contemplatively for a few minutes. When asked later, he said he wished good health for his grandparents. We repeated the whole thing again for some of his friends. We and especially our children were repeatedly photographed with locals, such as novice monks. A long mural shows the life and works of the first Buddha, 'Siddhartha Gautama'. According to tradition, eight hairs of his are enshrined in a golden casket embedded in a wall. Having seen this structure is one of the most impressive experiences ever, along with the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army.Although we could not explain the discrepancy between the Buddhist teaching of restraint and the incredible opulence, the experience remains unforgettable. However, Philip's highlight of the day was not the pagoda but the ride home in the 'race car taxi'!😅 Loudly rumbling, with an oversized spoiler and flames on the doors, the Subaru arrived and our son couldn't believe it! When asked about Myanmar today, he answers 'race car taxi'!'When is a man a man?'
