The Ananda Phaya (fig.) in Bagan dates from 1105 and was built in the jaturamuk style. It is topped with a gilded peak and its outermost corners and roof, are embellished with statues of chintha.

Inside, there are parallel corridors that surround the edifice, each with high walls that are decorated with niches containing Buddha images in various poses and countless bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as from the jataka. Here, the Great Departure (fig.) is portrayed, when Prince Siddhartha, i.e. the Buddha-to-be, sets off to commence his religious life, riding his beloved horse Kanthaka (fig.) and accompanied by his loyal servant Chandaka (fig.).

At the main entrance is a large lotus pedestal with two Buddhapada (fig.), i.e. giant footprints of the Buddha, onto which visitors throw bank notes in honour of the Buddha and in order to gain merit.