Hsinbyume Pagoda or Myatheindan Pagoda is a dazzling white pagoda in the township of Mingun.  It was very quiet and peaceful when we visited, and I’m afraid our crappy camera didn’t do it justice.  It was so bright, that most of the photos are just a blur of white, so please excuse them and assume the place was a thousand times prettier than they show.

The pagoda was built-in 1816 by Prince Bagyidaw and built-in memory of his wife who died during childbirth. Today it is visited by Buddhists giving offerings and lighting incense at the top of the temple, and increasingly tourists trying to capture that perfect shot and take numerous selfies.

The top is also a great way to admire the view of the nearby Mingun Pagoda and the surrounding area.

Like all temples and pagodas, you will need to remove your shoes and socks before you enter the complex.  This was one of the few places we were asked for a “donation for looking at shoes” in other words they wanted money for making sure no one stole them.   We declined and it was accepted without further hassle.

To visit Hsinbyume Pagoda and the township of Mingun, it is about 11kms from Mandalay up the river which takes about an hour.  Entry to Hsinbyume Pagoda is included in your $4 entry into all the attractions at Mingun including the Mingun Bell and Mingun Pagoda.

And now for the aforementioned slightly craptacular photos…