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Kuthodaw Pagoda, also known as the Mahaloka Marasheng Pagoda, is located at the foot of Mandalay Hill in Mandalay, Myanmar. Its name means "the greatest meritorious pagoda in the world." The pagoda was built in 1857 to commemorate the Fifth Buddhist Conference, which brought together over 2,400 eminent monks from Myanmar and Southeast Asia. The resulting collection of the Tripitaka was inscribed on 729 marble tablets, creating a stupa to house the Tripitaka. These tablets are known as "the greatest book in the world," and their sheer size is unprecedented in the Buddhist world, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
About 1 hour
2 hours
There is no entrance fee for Kuthodaw Pagoda, but foreign tourists must purchase a Mandalay Pass for US$10 per ticket, which is valid for 5 days.
07:30-19:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
Kuthodaw Pagoda, located in Mandalay, Myanmar, is known as the "world’s largest book." It is famous for housing 729 stone tablets inscribed with the entire Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures). The pagoda was built in the 1850s during the reign of King Mindon as a symbol of Myanmar’s religious devotion.
Kuthodaw Pagoda is located in Mandalay, Myanmar. You can reach it by taxi or private car from Mandalay city center. Buses are also available, but taxis provide the most direct and convenient route.
The pagoda is open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds, especially if you want to capture good photographs.
The entrance fee is approximately 5,000 MMK (Myanmar Kyat). Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the pagoda. Online ticketing is not available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can purchase tickets on the day of your visit. However, it is advisable to arrive early if you are visiting during peak tourist seasons.
It typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Kuthodaw Pagoda, including time to walk around the stupa, visit the surrounding temples, and admire the stone tablets.
Guided tours are available in English and Burmese. Local guides can provide insights into the history and significance of the pagoda. Audio guides are not available.
Night visits are possible as the pagoda is open until 8 PM, but there are no light shows or special tours available at night. The pagoda’s serene atmosphere is perfect for an evening visit if you prefer a quieter experience.
Kuthodaw Pagoda can get crowded, especially during the midday hours and on weekends. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially on weekdays.
The pagoda has basic facilities, including toilets and water stations. There are no large restaurants or shops on-site, but local vendors nearby sell refreshments and souvenirs.
Kuthodaw Pagoda is accessible for most visitors, including the elderly and children. However, some areas may involve stairs, so visitors with mobility issues may find it difficult to explore the entire site.
Cash (in Myanmar Kyat) is required to pay for entrance fees and small purchases. Cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted at the pagoda.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in Mandalay, where many restaurants cater to these dietary preferences. Halal food is also available at some restaurants in the city.
Souvenir shops near the pagoda offer traditional Myanmar handicrafts, including lacquerware, textiles, and religious artifacts. You can also find postcards and other memorabilia related to the pagoda.
Taxis or private cars are the best transportation options for continuing your trip after visiting Kuthodaw Pagoda. Public buses are available, but taxis provide more convenience and comfort.
