If you follow any Instagram pages dedicated to the natural and cultural richness of Myanmar, you’ve probably stumbled upon many beautiful photos of the Hsinbyume Pagoda. This breathtaking white pagoda is one of the country’s most Instagrammable spots, and it’s definitely worth the hype.
The Hsinbyume Pagoda is located in small town Mingun, just north of Mandalay. It takes about an hour and a half to get there by car, but most tourists exploring this country prefer taking a ferry from the Gaw Wein Jetty, since it’s a much cheaper and adventurous option.
The Hsinbyume Pagoda can be visited during daylight hours every day, and you can enter it with a ticket for the Mingun archaeological zone. It will set you back by just 5,000 MMK ($3.30) and it also covers the entrance for several surrounding attractions, including Mingun Pahtodawgyi.
Hsinbyume Pagoda became the most photographed attraction in the area thanks to its striking white color. It was built in 1812, in honor of Princess Hsinbyume, the first wife of King Bagyidaw, whose family ruled Burma for over a century. Its unique design was inspired by the description of the sacred Mount Meru, believed to be the center of the universe in Buddhist mythology.