The Botataung Pagoda - also spelled as "Botahtaung" - literally means "1000 military officers". If you're wondering about this peculiar naming, it alludes to the story that a thousand military officers were present to welcome Buddha relics brought from India to Burma, following which the pagoda was built to house the relics. Today, the Buddha Hair Relic remains safely in the massive interior of the gilded pagoda. Although the pagoda was leveled to the ground during the Second World War, it was rebuilt to its original glory, including the hollow stupa, which is uncommon in stupas - with additional features in the hollow.

As you head past the intricately-designed entrance to the pagoda, be prepared to take in the breathtaking sights before you. The stupa's hollow inside features a mirrored labyrinth, with many ancient relics and artifacts displayed within glass showcases. These relics had been uncovered from the ruins of the original pagoda, having been safely hidden away in a relic chamber. Even if you are not the most devout of worshippers, be sure to head to the enshrined Sacred Hair of the Buddha. Of the many Buddha images in the pagoda, the Royal Palace Bronze Buddha image is truly a marvel, seated on a high pedestal in an ornate pavilion. While you’re in Yangon, this might be overshadowed by the more famous pagoda but a trip to the Botataung Pagoda is one you’ll never regret.