Laungbanpyauk Pagoda
Early 16th century pagoda known as the “colored tile pagoda”
The Laungbanpyauk Paya is a solid pagoda located North of Mrauk U town. The stone pagoda that was built in 1525 by King Minkhaung is also known as the “colored tile pagoda”.
Colored tiles with flower patterns
The pagoda is surrounded by a stone wall, the outer surface of which is decorated with flower patterns made of glazed tiles. Each flower consists of nine glazed tiles; its flower petals are in bright blue, white, yellow, red and green colors.
An opening in the East side of the wall leads to the pagoda. The Laungbanpyauk sits on a platform about two meters high. The solid pagoda does not have an entrance leading to its interior.
Octagonal pyramid shaped pagoda
The massive Laungbanpyauk is an octagonal pagoda shaped like a pyramid with tiers of diminishing size. Each of its eight sides measures 10 meters long at the base. In the center of each side of the bottom tier is an ornate niche that contains an image of the Buddha. The niches and pediments over it are adorned with detailed sculptings in several motifs.
The nearly 37 meter high Laungbanpyauk Paya is topped with a spire called “chattra”.
Other temples in Mrauk U
Among the other temples & pagodas in Mrauk U are: