Hsinbyume Pagoda in Mandalay Mingun Myanmar

The Hsinbyume Pagoda also called Myatheindaw Pagoda is a Buddhist sanctuary in Mingun (Myanmar). King Bagyidaw had it built in 1816, three years before his enthronement, for his late favorite wife Hsinbyume. King Mindon had the earthquake damage of 1838 repaired in 1874.

The pagoda symbolizes the mythical Mount Meru, the center of the world. Seven terraces adorned with waves represent the seven seas which, according to Buddhist ideas, surround Mount Meru. Nats, demons, monsters and nagas are set up in niches on each level of the building for guarding. Stairs lead up over the seven terraces to a plateau with the central stupa, which represents the Sulamani Palace, the seat of the sky god Indra. Further steep stairs lead to a passage from which one enters the cella with the Buddha statue. By then you have crossed twelve tiered gates with richly decorated gables, seven on the ascent over the terraces and five more on the ascent to the cella.