Though in part destroyed by earthquakes, Mingun Pahtodawgyi, dubbed the world's largest pile of bricks, can be climbed and to this end a staircase has been specially built.

The top of the Mingun Pagoda (fig.), located some 10 kilometers upstream from the city of Mandalay, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including of the adjacent Irrawaddy River.

However, like with most Buddhist temples in Myanmar, one needs to take off the shoes and visit the place barefooted. Yet, the stairs are exposed to the heat of the sun throughout the day and become so hot that visitors are forced to take regular breaks.

Some take rests standing on twigs and leafs not to get their soles burned.