There are many famous pagodas and temples country-wise in Myanmar as Buddhism flourishes in the nation. Mandalay, the hub of Myanmar culture, has also many famous pagodas and shrines including the Mahalawkamarazein Kuthodaw Pagoda built by King Mindon.

The pagoda was built from 1860 AD to 1868. The Kuthodaw Pagoda has twelve arch-gates and four prayer halls. The Pagoda has a precinct of 13-acres with triple enclosure walls. The arch-ways and prayer halls are adorn with Myanmar architectural and artistic designs. These works are also preserved in the original forms.

Renovation of Kuthodaw Pagoda precinct has already been completed 90 per cent. It will be completed very soon. Construction of two new rest houses and painting and renovation of old prayer halls are underway.

The artistically engraved door of the precinct is an interesting object to observe for the visitors. It is an excellent work of art.

Shady trees are planted in rows between cave-like zedis housing inscribed marble slabs in the precinct.

Khaye or star flower trees have already been pruned and treated in the precinct.

It is a tradition in Myanmar to inscribe teachings of Lord Buddha in gold leaves, palm leaves and marble slabs.

As the convener of the fifth Buddhist synod to cleanse the records of Buddhist teachings, King Mindon was enthusiastic to inscribe the Tripitaka on marble slabs.

In 1860, King Mindon started building the Mahalawkamarazein Kuthodaw Pagoda with triple enclosure walls and also started to inscribe the Tripitaka. The marble slab inscription was completed in 1868, renowned in latter-day as the Biggest Book of the World.

All in all, there are 733 marble slabs inscribed. The Tripitaka is inscribed on 729 slabs, the account of the Pagoda on one and the record of the total cost of the meritorious deeds on three more marble slabs. The marble slabs are enshrined in 731 cave-like zedis built in Sinhalese relic casket type structures.

Now the zedis and the precinct have granite stone pavement which will also be completed very soon. Renovation of the arch-way is being done with great care to preserve the original artistic work. Golden umbrella is to be hoisted for every pagoda in the precinct.

The total cost for every pagoda will be kyat 100,000 which well-wishers are donating. Lastly but not the least, the signboard on the South-East arch-gate of the World’s Biggest Book is also under-renovation. Great care is taken to preserve the floral arabesque in the original beauty.

The renovation of the Pagoda precinct has made the pilgrimage more convenient and pleasant. It is being renovated to preserve Myanmar’s cultural heritage for the posterity.

The historic pagoda is being thronged by pilgrims from the whole country and tourists are also visiting as the cultural heritage site.