Nan Paya

Why Nan Paya is special ?

Nan Paya, lying next to Manuha Temple, is an 11th century temple whose interiors were made of bricks and exteriors were built from sandstones. According to folklore, the temple was constructed by the grandson of Mon King Manuha, Naga Thaman. There are three other Buddhist edifices in Bagan which were also built of sandstones, which are Shwezigon, Kyauk Gu U Min, and Set Ku Taik which had already collapse in 1956.

The sculptures and other exteriors inside the temple are still in their original colors, suggesting that they are well preserved. These inner structures are believed to be in Hindu style, with the appearance of Brahmas in two stone reliefs and various sophisticated lotus decorations.

Source: http://www.toursinmyanmar.com/

What to explore at Nan Paya?

The unique feature of Nan Paya Pagoda is the decorative artworks which adorn the four pillars of the interior chamber. On each of these four pillars are two stone reliefs of Brahma skillfully executed on stone and stone reliefs of ogres holding in their mouths bunches of intricate floral designs, done by master craftsmen. The Brahmas have three heads each, with obese pouch belley squatting on the lotus thrones. Lotus buds, blooms, stems, roots and leaves decorate the backdrops. The stone blocks were laid so neatly and tightly that the joints were concealed from view. The sculpturing works were executed on them. As these artworks are quite preserved in the interior of the chamber, well protected from sunlight and rain, traces of original colours on the reliefs of ogre figures and floral designs ale still visible.

In the centre of the chamber is a brick devotional throne but there is no image on it. But there must have been either a bronze or stone image on it. The Hindu style of its architecture, the presence of Brahma figures and the model of the brick devotional throne make some scholars think that Nan Paya Pagoda was originally a Hindu temple.

Source: http://www.baganmyanmar.com/

How to get to Nan Paya?

Nan Paya Pagoda is just 4 minutes driving from the Bagan Archaeological Museum along Bagan - Chauk Rd. Beside horse cart and taxi, visitors can hire e-bike or bicycle to reach the place.