Mingun is situated on the western bank of Ayeyarwaddy River, about 11 Km north-west of Mandalay. Visitors can get there from Mandalay by boat across the river – 1 hour upriver and 40 minutes downriver.
Mingun Pahtodawgyi is a renowned unfinished structure. The building started in 1790, and when the height reached 162 feet, it was stopped because of King Bodawpaya’s death. In 1838, the uncompleted structure was badly damaged and cracked by an earthquake; however, it is still known as the largest brick base in the world.
Two gigantic lion statues are at the east stairway which confronts the Ayeyawaddy River. From that stand, you can appreciate the picturesque natural beauty of Ayeyawady River and the green charming Minwun Hill.
The Mingun ringing bell cast in 1790 is the biggest un-cracked ringing bell the the world with the weight of 89 tons. Myatheindan pagoda, built in 1816 is the representation of the Sulamani pagoda remains on top of Mt. Meru as according to the Buddhist arrangement of the cosmo. The seven wavy terraces around the pagoda speak to the seven mountain ranges around Mt. Meru.
Mingun Home for the Aged was established by Daw Oo Zun herself in 1915 with a perspective to taking care of the destitute elder. An alternate spot you can study is the monastery where Sayadaw U Viseitta Sara Vivamsa, the winner of Tipitaka Title lived. The late Sayadaw was recorded in the Guinness Book as one of the most intelligent men on earth.