We visited this Pagoda on a Saturday afternoon. It's a beautiful and peaceful place but I was surprised to read the negative reviews which were mostly because people were criticising security, canteen food and even jetty services!! I'm posting a detailed review so people can get more information and know what to expect.
How we reached:
We took an auto to Gorai creek (jetty). From the Gorai Jetty we took a ferry which takes less than ten minutes to reach Gorai. It's a 100 bucks for a return ticket per person. After disembarking, we walked for about 5 minutes to reach the Pagoda. The entry to the Pagoda is free.
Security check:
The security check, while entering the Pagoda, does not allow one to take outside food which is understandable considering it is essential to maintain cleanliness inside.
We were all dressed modestly as I had read beforehand that shorts are not allowed and shoulders need to be covered.
Some reviews mention DSLR is not allowed inside.
The Pagoda:
Overall the gates, the dome, the surrounding structures are magnificent.
There is a bell tower where you can ring a huge bell with the help of a large wooden log to one side of the dome.
The main dome is surrounded by gardens and fountains.
General public can view the inside of the Pagoda from a viewing gallery, but cannot enter the main dome as it where the Vipassana meditation takes place.
There is a "information kiosk" where you can make enquiries if you have any.
Opposite the main dome is a hall where free Anapana mediation sessions are taken.
We loved the beautiful "audio visual tour" which unfortunately we had to leave midway as it was almost 6 pm and time for the last ferry to go.
There is also a museum and canteen, both of which we could not visit due to lack of time.
The toilets are clean and there are water coolers near the museum where you can get drinking water.
While exiting you go through a sort of shopping complex selling souvenirs etc, we had no time to check this out either!
On our way back:
The last ferry leaves at 6pm. When we reached the spot for boarding the ferry there was a huge line. It took about 20-25 mins for us to get into a ferry. Even though ferries may be congested they are a quick way to travel and hence quite convenient.
I will definitely be returning to see more of the parts that I missed.
Tips:
The ferries are quick and convenient but don't expect them to be very sophisticated.
Morning hours would be best to start as afternoons can get very hot.
Also starting early will give one more time to explore the entire Pagoda.
Dress modestly, cover shoulders, avoid shorts, this is after all a religious place, respect the rules.
Avoid getting food. If you do, you can leave it with security and have it once you exit the Pagoda.
Do not miss the audio visual tour, it is awesome and the interiors are beautiful.
Definitely try the Anapana meditation session, very relaxing.
There are small food tapris on the way from the Pagoda to the boat boarding spot at Gorai, for tea, quick bites etc.
The last ferry leaves at 6pm, which means you have to exit the Pagoda by 5.45 pm so plan your visit accordingly.
(May edit this with more info after I visit again ☺️)