Global Vipassana Pagoda

The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a meditation dome hall located on a peninsula between Gorai Creek and the Arabian Sea in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is the world's largest hollow stone masonry structure containing relics of Gautama Buddha and can seat approximately 8,000 meditators. Built as a monument of peace and gratitude to Sayagyi U Ba Khin, it serves as a center for Vipassana meditation. The complex includes a museum, library, and smaller pagodas.

Visitors can explore the massive pillar-less stone dome housing Buddha relics, view exhibits at the museum depicting the life of the Buddha, and participate in a complimentary 10-minute Anapana meditation session. The premises feature landscaped gardens, a circumambulation path, and two smaller pagodas. Audio tours are available via a dedicated app. Strict silence is maintained inside the main dome, and modest dress is required throughout the campus.

Construction began in 2000 after planning started in 1997. The central locking stone of the main dome enshrined bone relics of Gautama Buddha on October 29, 2006. The relics were originally discovered in Bhattiprolu, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh. The pagoda was built as a tribute to Sayagyi U Ba Khin (1899-1971), who was instrumental in returning Vipassana meditation to India.

The pagoda serves as a monument of peace and harmony and expresses gratitude to the Buddha and the lineage of teachers who preserved Vipassana for over 2,600 years. It was declared one of the 'Seven Wonders of Maharashtra' by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation in 2013. The site also honors Myanmar for preserving Buddhist teachings in their pure form.