shwedagon pagoda

while in rangoon, we visited the magnificent shwedagon pagoda.


its age is unclear -- at least 2,500 years old. some archeologists say that it dates from the 6th century, but according to our tour guide (and many burmese), this is the only pagoda built during the lifetime of the buddha.

covered in pure gold, folks. and large jewels on top. cyclone nargis dislodged many of them + sent them into surrounding neighborhoods. our burmese colleague tells us that the vast majority of the jewels were returned to the monks by the locals.


there are prayer stations around shwedagon for the signs of the zodiac.

(i embrace my position as rat!)

according to legend, if you strike this bell three times, you will be guaranteed a return visit to burma.

yes, please!