Mingun Pahtodawgyi, Mandalay

Mingun Pahtodawgyi, an iconic edifice steeped in history and cultural significance, stands majestically on the western banks of the Irrawaddy River, just north of Mandalay, Myanmar. This massive, unfinished stupa was conceived by King Bodawpaya in the late 18th century as a monument to his reign and a place of Buddhist worship. Had it been completed, it would have been the largest stupa in the world.

The construction began in 1790 but was abruptly halted in 1819, following the death of King Bodawpaya. The structure was never finished and now exists as an impressive, albeit incomplete, monument. The partial stupa reaches a height of approximately 50 meters, a fraction of the 150 meters it was intended to reach. An earthquake in 1839 caused significant damage to the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, leaving large cracks in the façade, which have become a defining characteristic of the structure.

Despite its unfinished and weathered state, the Mingun Pahtodawgyi is a sight to behold. Its sheer size and the history behind its ambitious construction project make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can climb the stupa using the steps that have been carved into one side of the temple, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the nearby Mingun Bell, which is considered the world's second largest ringing bell.

The temple was built with thousands of brick and stone slabs, and the base of the structure is surrounded by intricate carvings and statues that have survived the passage of time. The Mingun Pahtodawgyi is a testament to the architectural ambition of ancient Myanmar and remains a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Open to the public, the site attracts not only tourists but also pilgrims and scholars interested in the history of Southeast Asian architecture and Buddhism. The journey to Mingun is an experience in itself, typically involving a scenic boat ride up the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay.