Symbol of Myanmar | Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, one of the three major ancient sites in Southeast Asia of Buddhism's Light.

Shwedagon Pagoda, also known as the Golden Pagoda, was first built in 585 BC and has undergone repairs and renovations over the years. The current height of the pagoda is 112 meters and the circumference of the base is 427 meters. It is the most sacred Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar, as it enshrines relics of four Buddhas. Along with Indonesia's Borobudur Temple and Cambodia's Angkor Wat, it is known as one of the "Three Great Monuments of Southeast Asia" and is a world-renowned symbol of Myanmar. The Shwedagon Pagoda is located on the Dinggudala Mountain in the Inya Lake area of Yangon. Built in the pre-Christian era, the Shwedagon Pagoda has a history of more than 2,500 years and is the oldest pagoda in Myanmar. According to legend, the Burmese merchants Ko Gada Putta brothers brought back eight strands of Buddha's hair from India and presented them to the Burmese king, who ordered the construction of the pagoda in this ancient fishing village to preserve the Buddha's hair. When it was first built, the pagoda was only about 20 meters high, but after more than 2,000 years of repairs and expansions, it has become what it is today. The main tower is over 100 meters high, surrounded by walls, with entrances on all four sides. The south gate is the main entrance, and there is now an elevator for tourists to visit. There are more than 70 marble steps that lead up to the main tower platform. There is a small stone tower at each corner of the platform, with the main tower in the middle. The main tower is covered in pure gold foil, with over 5,000 diamonds and more than 2,000 precious stones embedded in the top. A wind chime hangs from the top of the tower, and when the wind blows, it rings out a pleasant sound that spreads in all directions. There are also two large bells hanging in the pagoda courtyard. According to legend, ringing the bells three times can make your wishes come true. The Burmese people regard the Shwedagon Pagoda as a holy site of Buddhism and a source of national pride. The Shwedagon Pagoda, along with Indonesia's Borobudur Temple and Cambodia's Angkor Wat, is one of the famous wonders of the East. In April 2019, I traveled to Myanmar and had the privilege of visiting the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. Together with the locals, I devoutly prayed under the scorching noon sun, feeling the Buddha's light. It's an unforgettable experience till now!