Satellite-detected damaged sites in Mingun, Sagaing

Due to ongoing conflicts, conducting on-the-ground surveys in the Mingun region remains extremely challenging. A satellite-based study of the area’s earthquake-damaged pagodas and stupas revealed nearly 80 affected sites. Of these, approximately 41 pagodas are suspected to have completely collapsed, around 29 show varying degrees of damage, and about 7 are believed to have been impacted.

The area suffering the most severe destruction is around the Dhamma Dipa Monastery compound, west of Mingun Taung village. In particular, the damage to the highly valuable Mya Thein Tan Pagoda, the Great Mingun Pagoda, and the Sattawyar Pagoda—monuments of immense historical, architectural, and artistic significance—constitutes a profound loss to the cultural heritage of the Mingun region.

We strongly encourage the public to report heritage damage by sending information and photographs through the Heritage for Myanmar Application. The data collected will play a vital role in guiding systematic restoration and long-term preservation efforts for these irreplaceable sites.