Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Pagoda. This pagoda was built by Nantaungmya (1211-34 A.D.) after the model of the temple at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, and is the only specimen of its class in Myanmar. The basement is a quandrangular block of no great height, supporting a tall pyramidal spire. The finial is a small slim stupa. The sanctum, facing east, occupies only a portion of the quadrangle, but with the projections of the side walls towards the east a spacious prayer hall could be accommodated in front of the sanctum. The whole structure is covered with niches bearing seated Buddhas and interspersed with ornamental panels and mouldings.

The Buddha image inside Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple similar to the Mahabodhi in Bodhgaya, India

Detail of niches near the base of one of the corners

(Source: myanmars.net)