Dagoba vs. Pagoda — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 8, 2024
Dagoba is a type of stupa prevalent in Sri Lanka, symbolizing Buddhist relics and teachings, while a pagoda is a tiered tower structure found in various Asian countries, often associated with Buddhist or Taoist traditions.
Difference Between Dagoba and Pagoda
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Dagobas are primarily found in Sri Lanka and are important in Buddhist religious practices as they house sacred relics. Whereas, pagodas are architectural features prominent in East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea, serving both religious and aesthetic purposes.
Dagobas have a bell-shaped structure built over a square base, often encompassing a relic chamber within. On the other hand, pagodas are multi-storied structures with multiple eaves that may house relics, sacred scriptures, or serve as a place of worship.
The architectural design of dagobas is focused on the hemispherical form, symbolic of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. In contrast, pagodas are characterized by their elongated, tiered design which can vary significantly in style from one region to another.
The cultural significance of dagobas is closely tied to Theravada Buddhism and its practices. Pagodas, however, are utilized across various sects of Buddhism and even in Taoism, reflecting broader religious and cultural uses.
Dagobas are usually constructed with a relic chamber at the center, which is considered sacred and not accessible to the public. Meanwhile, pagodas might allow visitor access to interior floors, sometimes used for meditation or worship.
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Comparison Chart
Geographic Origin
Sri Lanka
East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)
Structure
Bell-shaped built over a square base
Multi-storied with multiple eaves
Purpose
Houses sacred relics
Houses relics, scriptures, or worship space
Architectural Focus
Hemispherical form symbolizing the universe
Elongated, tiered design
Accessibility
Relic chamber usually not accessible
Floors may be accessible to visitors
Compare with Definitions
Dagoba
A Buddhist monument housing sacred relics.
The ancient dagoba in Anuradhapura is revered by pilgrims.
Pagoda
A tiered tower with multiple eaves, associated with Buddhism or Taoism.
The pagoda’s towering structure dominates the temple complex.
Dagoba
Architecturally significant as a symbol of the universe in Buddhism.
The design of the dagoba represents the universe in Buddhist cosmology.
Pagoda
Represents cosmological concepts in its architecture.
The design of the pagoda symbolizes the path to enlightenment.
Dagoba
Predominantly found in Sri Lanka.
Dagobas are a common sight in the Buddhist temples of Sri Lanka.
Pagoda
Accessible to visitors for worship or meditation.
Tourists and devotees can enter the pagoda to meditate.
Dagoba
Central to Theravada Buddhist worship.
Worshippers often circle the dagoba three times as a form of veneration.
Pagoda
Serves as a place for religious scriptures and relics.
Ancient scriptures are housed within the towering pagoda.
Dagoba
Generally inaccessible inner relic chamber.
The relic chamber within the dagoba is not accessible to the public.
Pagoda
Found across various Asian countries, adapting regional architectural styles.
Japanese pagodas often feature wooden construction.
Dagoba
A stupa.
Pagoda
A pagoda is a tiered tower with multiple eaves common to China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and other parts of Asia. Most pagodas were built to have a religious function, most often Buddhist but sometimes Taoist, and were often located in or near viharas.
Dagoba
A dome-shaped structure built over relics of Buddha or some Buddhist saint.
Pagoda
(in India and East Asia) a Hindu or Buddhist temple, typically in the form of a many-tiered tower.
Pagoda
A religious building of East Asia and Southeast Asia, especially a multistory Buddhist tower with overhanging eaves separating each level, erected as a memorial or shrine.
Pagoda
A stupa.
Pagoda
A structure, such as a garden pavilion, built in imitation of a multistory Buddhist tower.
Pagoda
A religious building in South and Southeast Asia, especially a multi-storey tower erected as a Hindu or Buddhist temple.
Pagoda
An image or carving of a god in South and Southeast Asia; an idol.
Pagoda
A unit of currency, a coin made of gold or half gold, issued by various dynasties in medieval southern India.
Pagoda
An ornamental structure imitating the design of the religious building, erected in a park or garden.
Pagoda
(rare) A pagoda sleeve.
Pagoda
A term by which Europeans designate religious temples and tower-like buildings of the Hindoos and Buddhists of India, Farther India, China, and Japan, - usually but not always, devoted to idol worship.
Pagoda
An idol.
Pagoda
A gold or silver coin, of various kinds and values, formerly current in India. The Madras gold pagoda was worth about three and a half rupees.
Pagoda
An Asian temple; usually a pyramidal tower with an upward curving roof
Common Curiosities
How do dagobas and pagodas differ architecturally?
Dagobas are hemispherical structures symbolizing the universe, while pagodas are elongated, multi-tiered towers.
Can you enter a pagoda?
Yes, many pagodas are accessible to visitors for meditation, worship, or viewing.
What is the main purpose of a dagoba?
A dagoba primarily serves to house and venerate sacred Buddhist relics.
Where are dagobas commonly found?
Dagobas are most commonly found in Sri Lanka.
What religious practices are associated with pagodas?
Pagodas are used in various Buddhist and Taoist rituals and can house sacred scriptures.
Are there dagobas in countries other than Sri Lanka?
Yes, variations of dagobas can be found in other Buddhist countries, though they are most prominent in Sri Lanka.
Do all pagodas look the same?
No, pagodas vary widely in design depending on regional architectural influences.
Are pagodas found in non-Asian countries?
Yes, pagodas have been built in various parts of the world, often within Asian diaspora communities or in Asian-themed gardens.
How are pagodas integrated into the landscape?
Pagodas are often integrated into temple complexes and can be focal points in gardens and scenic views.
What materials are used to build dagobas?
Dagobas are typically constructed from brick or stone.
Why are dagobas important in Buddhism?
Dagobas are important for housing relics and as sites for religious veneration in Buddhism.
How does the structure of a pagoda reflect its use?
The multi-tiered structure of a pagoda can facilitate multiple uses, such as housing relics on one floor and providing space for meditation on another.
How many floors can a pagoda have?
Pagodas can range from a few floors to many, depending on their design and purpose.
What is the spiritual significance of a dagoba?
Dagobas symbolize the Buddhist universe and are a focal point for meditation and veneration.
What is inside a dagoba?
A dagoba typically contains a central relic chamber, which houses sacred relics.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
