Shwesandaw Pagoda

Shwesandaw Pagoda. It is a cylindrical stupa with five terraces, the first to be built by king Anawrahta after his conquest of Thaton in 1057 A.D. It is said that some sacred hairs of Gautama Buddha, which were obtained from the Mon country, were enshrined in it. The pagoda is also known as the Mahapeinne or Ganesha Pagoda. Originally, the terraces were adorned with fine terracotta plaques depicting scenes from the Jatakas. It has recently been renovated by the public and traces of architectural motifs and sculptures have been obliterated.

Closer view of Shwesandaw Pagoda

Steep stairways to the upper terrace

Tourist on the upper terrace of Shwesandaw Pagoda

(Source: myanmars.net)