It is located approximately 11 km (6.8 mi) north of Mandalay on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River.

The bell is 6 to 12 inches (15–30 cm) thick and stands 20.7 feet (6.31 m) high from the rim to the top.

King Bodawpaya (r. 1782–1819) had this gigantic bell cast to go with his huge stupa, Mingun Pahtodawgyi.

[4] The Mingun Bell was knocked off its supports as a result of a large earthquake on 23 March 1839.

It was resuspended by the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company in March 1896 using screw jacks and levers using funds from public subscription.