“Gourd-shaped” is how locals describe this stunning golden structure. Right before us stands the Buu Pagoda. Its history is as captivating as its shimmering facade.
Legend says King Pyusawhti built the Buu Pagoda. He ruled Bagan in the 3rd century AD. Before becoming king he eradicated five menaces from the kingdom. One menace was the gourd plant infesting the Irrawaddy’s riverbanks. After becoming ruler, he built the pagoda where he eliminated the gourds. “Bu” means gourd and “Phaya” means pagoda. So Buu Pagoda literally means gourd-shaped pagoda.
The Buu Pagoda is believed to be Bagan’s oldest pagoda. Some say it dates back to the 3rd century. Others believe it was built around the 9th or 11th century with the city walls. The pagoda’s style hints at the 9th century when Bagan was founded.
Notice the pagoda’s cylindrical shape. This signifies its Pyu style that descends from Indian stupas. The Buu Pagoda once had a gravity-type pyramidal profile. It was impressively decorated with bricks. The pagoda featured a bell-shaped dome over diminishing terraces. A finial crowned the dome. Inside were enshrined Buddha’s relics.
Tragically the 1975 earthquake caused it to tumble into the Irrawaddy River. The current structure is a reconstruction. The new Buu Pagoda was rebuilt between 1976 and 1978. It is now a hollow reinforced concrete structure. It replaced the traditional brick structure of the past. The pagoda has a polygonal base following the traditional plan.
The Buu Pagoda rises in a series of crenellated semi-circular terraces. These overlook the river. It is now fully gilded. The Buu Pagoda is a distinct landmark on the Irrawaddy River’s shores.
Two white and gold Chinthes guard the temple grounds entrance. These are Burmese mythological lions. There are also ornate pavilions on the grounds.
From the river the Buu Pagoda looks like a fortress. Its gilded hti finial resembles an umbrella.
Consider hiring a boat for an Irrawaddy River cruise. It will give you an even better view of the Buu Pagoda. Imagine King Pyusawhti building this pagoda centuries ago. He wanted to commemorate his good luck and honor Buddha. The Buu Pagoda remains a testament to Bagan’s rich history. It stands as a symbol of resilience after the earthquake.