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Htilominlo Temple (built c. 1211)

The Htilominlo Pahto was built by King Nandaungmya (r. 1211-c.1230 AD) early in his reign to commemorate his selection on this spot as crown prince from among five sons of the king. The white umbrella had tilted toward him, and he became his father’s successor.

The Htilominlo is a large three story red brick (with some stone) temple on a low platform. Originally covered in carved white stucco, some of its exquisite finely detailed plaster still remains. One can only wonder at its appearance when new. The temple is similar in design and even in detail to the earlier Sulamani Pahto and the Gawdawpalin both built by the king’s father. Its square base measures 140 feet on each side There are receding square terraces with stupas or spires at each corner on the second and third levels.. Each terrace was originally decorated with terracotta plaques on the terrace crenulations; some are still in place. Htilominlo’s imposing central spire rises a bit over 150 feet (46m),. The amalaka (the lotus leaf clasp at the lower base) of the sikhara (central peak or finial) has a greater breadth than the Sulamani Pahto.

The main shrine entrance hall is extended on the eastern side of the structure. Buddhas face the four cardinal points on the each of the two shrine stories (entrance to the upper levels is no longer permitted to the general public). Compared to the Sulamani, the lower ambulatory of Htilominlo has a greater feeling of verticality. There are the remains of fine murals on the interior walls. The damage from the earthquake of l975 was repaired between 1976-1979.

Bagan Monument number 1812

Text by Robert D. Fiala, Concordia University, Nebraska