A large snake was found coiled on top of a gold pagoda at a Buddhist temple in Myanmar.

The 15ft serpent was spotted by locals wrapped around the crown of the religious building in Kachin's Shwe Myintzu Ye Lae Pagoda, on October 11.

Footage shows the beast tucked under the parasol-shaped structure surrounded by bells. It fitted snugly under the decoration, concealing it until the animal slithered out and the devotees noticed.

However, the reptile was driven away from the top of the pagoda as superstitious onlookers believed the sighting was a bad omen.

The filmer Khin Sar said: 'The snake reached the top of the pagoda. That symbolises widespread starvation and poverty. It is a bad sign.'

The snake was unhurt and released outside the temple grounds.

The Shwe Myintzu Ye Lae Pagoda features traditional Buddhist architecture with intricate designs, colourful decorations, and the use of gold leaf.

Tourists often take a boat tour along Indawgyi Lake, especially during the full moon festival, where they can see the temple compound without obstructions.

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Myanmar. It plays a significant role in the culture and daily life of the people, influencing everything from festivals to social customs. Other religious groups in Myanmar include Christians, Muslims, and indigenous faiths, but they represent a smaller percentage of the population.