Nga Htat Gyi Temple – A Seated Buddha Awaits You

At Nga Htat Gyi Temple, a colossal statue of a seated Buddha awaits you. Only a few people visit this Buddhist temple which I think you should never miss.

Though the pagoda is a bit far from downtown Yangon, it is reachable via Grab taxi.

Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda is just a few steps from the more well-known Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda which houses the massive reclining Buddha. So, if you visit the latter, take time to walk down to Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. 🙂

Obviously, the crowd drawer in this temple is the 14-meter-tall statue of Buddha.

As you can see, the Holy Deity is staring down at you.

The sacred statue is housed in an iron pavilion with a local architectural style.

Inside is a bit dark, but I think it’s quite intentional – for dramatic purposes.

As soon as you go in, your attention brings you right away to the seated Buddha.

And it’s actually quite mesmerizing.

On Buddha’s head is a coned-shaped golden crown embellished with shiny stones.

All the ornaments that embellished the statue seemed gold that glitters all throughout the place.

Temple visitors are allowed to go around the back of the statue. There wasn’t really much light there, so I didn’t see much. The back area was also not well-kept.

On both sides of the statue, you will find this interesting painting of Buddhist followers that looks like they’re coming out of the wall.

Also, take time to admire an enormous bell from ancient times.

There are also some other statues inside the temple.

Nga Htat Gyi Temple is open from 6 in the morning to 8 in the evening.

Related Post: Things to do in Yangon

Where to Stay in Old Yangon

I stayed in two places: a hotel and a hostel. Hotel G Yangon has views of the city you’ll love if you book the right room! It’s close to Sule Pagoda, a downtown market, and a train station. Backpacker Bed and Breakfast is your budget-friendly hostel near Sule Pagoda in the old district. Their rooftop is a good place to chill in the afternoon and eat breakfast.