Global Vipassana Pagoda

Overview

The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a massive golden meditation dome in Gorai, North Mumbai, modelled after Myanmar's Shwedagon Pagoda. Its central dome is the world's largest pillarless stone dome, spanning 85 metres without a single supporting column.

Highlights

• Pillarless Dome: The 29-metre-high interior dome, built from interlocking stone blocks without pillars or steel reinforcement, is an engineering marvel.
• Bone Relics: The pagoda enshrines bone relics of Gautama Buddha, donated by the Sri Lankan government.
• Meditation Hall: The main hall beneath the dome can seat 8,000 meditators simultaneously in silence.

History

Conceived by Vipassana teacher S.N. Goenka and inaugurated in 2009, the pagoda was built using traditional Burmese construction techniques adapted with modern engineering. It took over 11 years to complete.

Visitor Tips

• Ferry Access: Reach Gorai by ferry from Marve beach or by road via the Western Express Highway.
• Meditation Sessions: Free Vipassana meditation introductions are offered on request.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.