Yangon, Myanmar
Visit the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda. This glistening golden pagoda, which stands over 350 feet tall, is the most revered shrine in the country and is a site that all Burmese Buddhists aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. It is the perfect symbol of a country in which Buddhism pervades every aspect of life. The physical presence of the Shwedagon's golden stupa dominates Yangon and its spiritual magnetism in turn dominates Myanmar, attracting tens of thousands of pilgrims each year. The pagoda dates back about 2,500 years and was built to house 8 sacred hairs of the Buddha.
(optional) While here, participate in the local religious event of lighting 1000 oil lamps on the Pagoda platform together with the local pilgrims.
(optional) If possible, during your visit to the pagoda, witness more than a dozen Buddhist devotees sweep the marble terraces and platforms of Myanmar’s most revered pagoda – an act of merit carried out in pursuit of spiritual credit.