Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung Standing Buddha: Exploring the Largest Buddha Image Complex
In the heart of Myanmar's dry zone, near the bustling city of Monywa, lies an awe-inspiring testament to Buddhist devotion: the Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung Standing Buddha complex. Home to the monumental Laykyun Sekkya, the second-tallest Buddha statue in the world, and a sprawling sanctuary of religious art and contemplation, this site offers visitors a profound glimpse into Myanmar's spiritual landscape.
A Monumental Vision in Monywa
The Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung complex, whose name translates to "a thousand great Bodhi trees," is more than just a collection of statues; it's a vast spiritual campus designed for meditation and pilgrimage. Dominated by its two most prominent figures – a colossal standing Buddha and an equally impressive reclining Buddha – the complex serves as a beacon of faith and a marvel of modern craftsmanship. Located just a short drive from Monywa, it's easily accessible and provides a unique experience for anyone exploring the diverse wonders of Myanmar.
The Standing Buddha: Laykyun Sekkya
At an astonishing 116 meters (381 feet) tall, not including its 13.5-meter (44-foot) pedestal, the Laykyun Sekkya stands as the world's second-tallest Buddha statue. Completed in 2008, after more than a decade of construction, its sheer scale is breathtaking. The statue's golden exterior gleams under the Myanmar sun, portraying the Buddha in a serene, upright posture.
The Interior of Laykyun Sekkya
Perhaps even more intriguing than its exterior is what lies within. Visitors can ascend numerous floors inside the Laykyun Sekkya, each level featuring intricate murals and dioramas depicting various Buddhist teachings and Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha's previous lives). These vibrant artworks offer a fascinating, albeit sometimes graphic, visual narrative of Buddhist cosmology, including vivid portrayals of hell and heavenly realms.
Tip for Visitors:The climb inside Laykyun Sekkya involves many steps, but the views from the higher windows are rewarding, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding complex and countryside.
The Reclining Buddha: A Peaceful Giant
Adjacent to the towering Laykyun Sekkya lies another magnificent creation: a 95-meter (312-foot) long reclining Buddha. This statue, which predates the standing one, was completed in 1991 and offers a striking contrast in its peaceful, recumbent form. Representing the Buddha entering Parinirvana (the final passing into nirvana), its tranquil expression and immense size evoke a sense of calm and spiritual contemplation.
Like its standing counterpart, the reclining Buddha is hollow, allowing visitors to walk through its interior. Here, a different set of murals and scenes illustrate Buddhist scriptures and moral lessons, often presented in a more accessible and cautionary style.
Beneath the Bodhi Trees: Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung
Beyond the two main statues, the complex derives its name from the "Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung" section, a unique area dedicated to the enlightenment of the Buddha. This vast expanse features 9,000 Bodhi trees, each planted with a smaller Buddha image at its base. The Bodhi tree is sacred in Buddhism, as it was under such a tree that Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment.
Walking through this serene forest of trees and statues is a deeply meditative experience, a spiritual echo of the original Bodhi Gaya in India. It’s a place for quiet reflection, offering a stark contrast to the grandeur of the main statues.
Exploring the Complex: What to See and Do
The Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung complex is extensive, requiring a few hours to fully appreciate. Besides the two main Buddha images and the Bodhi tree forest, visitors will find:
- Aung Sakkya Pagoda:A replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, though on a smaller scale, it adds another layer of architectural beauty to the site.
- Numerous smaller pagodas and monasteries:These dot the landscape, offering additional points for prayer and contemplation.
- Gardens and walking paths:Beautifully maintained areas provide a pleasant environment for strolling and absorbing the spiritual atmosphere.
The entire complex is a vibrant hub of religious activity, often frequented by local pilgrims. Observing their devotion and rituals adds another dimension to the visitor experience.
Planning Your Visit to Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung
Location and Accessibility
Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung is situated approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Monywa, Sagaing Region. Monywa itself is about 136 kilometers (85 miles) west of Mandalay, a major tourist hub in Myanmar. It can be reached by car or bus from Mandalay, with the journey taking around 3-4 hours.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from November to February, offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor complex. Temperatures can be very high during the hot season (March-May).
Dress Code and Etiquette
As a religious site, respectful attire is essential. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Shoes and socks must be removed before entering temples and the interiors of the Buddha statues. Always be mindful of local customs and behave respectfully.
Beyond the Statues: Monywa and Its Surroundings
A visit to Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung can easily be combined with other fascinating attractions in the Monywa area, making it a worthwhile overnight stop. Just across the Chindwin River, accessible by ferry, are the Po Win Daung Caves– a complex of over 900 sandstone caves filled with Buddha images and murals, some dating back to the 14th century. Another nearby gem is the elaborately decorated Thanboddhay Pagoda, known for its incredible number of Buddha images (reportedly over 500,000).
For those interested in nature, the Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall provides a refreshing escape, located a bit further afield but still within reach for a day trip from Monywa. Combining these diverse sites offers a comprehensive experience of this less-traveled, yet incredibly rich, part of Myanmar.
The Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung Standing Buddha complex is a truly unforgettable destination. Its monumental statues, serene Bodhi tree forest, and vibrant local devotion offer a powerful and immersive cultural experience for any traveler venturing into the heart of Myanmar.