Ever wondered how a mythical serpent could become a temple’s guardian? That’s the story of the Nagayone Pagoda. Right here in Amarapura this temple holds a unique place in Myanmar’s religious landscape. Let’s uncover the secrets of the Nagayone Pagoda.
The Nagayone Pagoda is also known as Nagayon Temple. It sits in the Mandalay Region in Myanmar. This Buddhist temple has a story dating back to the early 1800s. Anauk Nanmadaw Ma Mya Lay built it. She was the Queen of the Western Palace during King Bagyidaw’s reign.
The Nagayone Pagoda has an unusual design. Its roof is draped by the naga Mucalinda. Buddhist mythology says this serpent protected Buddha from the elements. He sheltered Buddha while he was achieving enlightenment.
Inside the Nagayone Pagoda you will find a Buddha image. The Naga Muchalinda looms protectively above the entire pagoda building. The naga almost forms a sheltering chair.
Other temples depict the naga behind the meditating Buddha. But here at the Nagayone Pagoda the entire structure is under the naga’s protection.
The Nagayon name means Protected by the Naga Serpent. Tradition says that King Kyansittha was once fleeing from King Sawlu. A young naga watched over him as he slept. The site became the Nagayon.
The naga appears often in Buddhist tradition. The Naga king Mucalinda protected the Buddha during a violent storm. Myanmar tradition is full of naga stories.
Even though Nagayone Pagoda is a well preserved little pagoda it would just be a point of interest if you were in Western Amarapura going between Pahtodawgyi Pagoda and the Mahagandayon Monastery.
Paintings from 1855 to 2017 show little change to the Nagayone Pagoda over time.
The Nagayone Pagoda stands as a testament to faith and artistic expression. It embodies a unique blend of history and mythology. It’s a reminder of the protective embrace of the naga. Its presence safeguards the teachings of Buddha. As you leave the Nagayone Pagoda take with you the story of the serpent’s shelter.