Botahtaung Pagoda, Yangon

Botahtaung Pagoda is a site of significant historical and religious importance. Built over 2,500 years ago during the Mon dynasty, it houses a sacred hair relic of Gautama Buddha. The original structure was completely destroyed during World War II bombings by Allied forces. The pagoda seen today is a reconstruction influenced by modern Burmese architecture, though remnants of the original structure are preserved inside.

The name Botahtaung translates to 'thousand leaders' in Burmese, reflecting a legend where a thousand military leaders escorted the Buddha's relics from India to Myanmar over two thousand years ago.

A unique feature of the Botahtaung Pagoda is its hollow interior, allowing visitors to walk inside. The pathway inside is lined with glass containers displaying artifacts and relics salvaged from the original pagoda, offering a mirrored-maze-like experience for visitors.