Shwesandaw

Shwesandaw is a prominent stupa located in Bagan, Myanmar. Its name translates to "Golden Hair Relic" and it is believed to enshrine a sacred hair of Gautama Buddha. Construction of the stupa is attributed to King Anawrahta, the founder of the First Bagan Empire, in the 11th century. The Shwesandaw pagoda is a five-terraced brick monument with a hollow stupa at its center. Its design is considered a significant example of early Bagan architecture, influencing the construction of many later pagodas in the region. The structure stands approximately 100 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the Bagan archaeological zone from its upper terraces. Historically, it served as a royal viewing platform for important ceremonies and festivals. The stupa's terraces are accessible by steep staircases, allowing visitors to climb to different levels. Shwesandaw is one of the most visited religious sites in Bagan, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The central stupa is topped with a hti, an ornamental umbrella-like finial, a common feature of Burmese Buddhist architecture. The monument has undergone various renovations and restorations throughout its history to preserve its integrity.