Built around 1105 by King Kyansittha, the Ananda is generally considered the finest temple in Bagan — and it is hard to argue otherwise. The perfectly symmetrical whitewashed structure rises to a gilded spire visible from across the plain. Inside, four enormous standing Buddhas face the cardinal directions, each over nine metres tall. The craftsmanship of the glazed tiles and the sandstone carvings in the outer corridors is still remarkable after nine centuries.
The temple is an active place of worship and draws both pilgrims and visitors. Remove your shoes before entering.