Destination Myanmar: Yangon

Before Naypyidaw, Yangon was once the capital of Myanmar, and today remains its commercial centre and largest city. Located on the fertile delta region on the Yangon river, it is home to the country’s main sea and air ports, and acts as a hub through which travellers journey to other cities and regions.

The city is brimming with history and culture, yet also shows the most evidence of change since Myanmar opened its doors in 2011 after decades of closed military rule.

Key places of interest include the must-visit golden Shwedagon, Chaukhtetgyi reclining Buddha, Sule Pagoda and the colonial buildings in the city center, Bogyok (Scott) Market, The National Museum and Kaba Aye (World Peace) Pagoda. We also encourage you to explore its tree-lined streets, riverbanks, parks and lakes at your leisure.

YANGON

WHAT TO DO AND SEE

Shwedagon Pagoda Also known as the Golden Pagoda, the 2,500 year old Shwedagon Pagoda is the oldest in the world. Standing at 110m high, it is covered with hundreds of gold plates and topped with 4,531 diamonds. Said to enshrine strands of Buddha's hair and other holy relics, it the most sacred stupa for Buddhists in Myanmar. It dominates the skyline of Yangon. The prominent landmark visible from miles around.	Yangon City Hall Located in downtown Yangon, the City Hall building is considered an exemplary example of Myanmar architecture. Construction of this building took 10 years and was completed in 1936. Look out for the unique green peacock above the entrance and traditional Burmese design on the pillars and roof.	Colonial Architecture Yangon’s city centre is host to the largest collection of late-nineteenth-century and early twentieth-century colonial architecture in Southeast Asia. Among these are the Yangon City Hall, Customs House, Victorian-style Strand Hotel and the Pegu Club, one of the oldest surviving British colonial buildings in Yangon.
Bogyoke Aung San Market Known Bogyoke Zay to locals, this market is known for its colonial architecture and inner cobblestone streets. It is also a popular shopping destination for tourists, who love the largest selection of Myanmar souvenirs available. These include interesting Myanmar lacquerware, gems, traditional dresses and jewellery.	Golden Rock Take a drive through the rural part of the Yangon region and take a day trip to visit the magnificent Golden Rock, one of Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Be prepared for an uphill trek, but your efforts will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Also known as Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda.	Bogyoke Aung San Museum The former residence of Bogyoke (General) Aung San and his wife Daw Kin Kyi, the museum today is home to mementos of the man considered the father of modern-day Burma. The house itself dates from the 1920s and holds several old family photos, which include daughter Aung San Suu Kyi as a little girl.
Kandawgyi Lake This natural lake is a popular destination for both young and old. The surrounding gardens contain an orchid garden, children’s play-ground, Mini Zoo and several restaurants. Go for a stroll along the Eastern part of the lake at sunset, and enjoy the view of the glittering Shwedagon pagoda reflected in its calm waters.	Chinatown Yangon’s Chinatown is a bustling hotpot of restaurants, gold and jewellery stores, cyber cafés, apparel shops and mini-markets. The more adventurous will enjoy the variety of delicious and inexpensive street food on offer. The Guan Yin Gu Miao and Qing Fu Gong temples are also worth a visit.	National Races Village The National Races Village was built by the Ministry of Border Affairs, and showcases the different cultures of the eight main national races residing in the country, covering traditional dress, music, literature and customs. The village covers a large area so rent a bike at the entrance or be prepared for some walking. (Photo: Zzvet / Shutterstock.com)
Yangon Circular Train Recommended for those who want to get a glimpse of everyday life in Yangon, the train brings travelers on a 3-hour journey through the various rural areas just out of the city. The train is a key mode of transport for locals, so don’t expect cushioned seats but the experience will be well worth the ride. (Photo: Patrik Dietrich / Shutterstock.com)	The Allied WWII Memorial The largest of three war cemeteries in Myanmar, it is located 32km from Yangon, on the way to Bago. Built in 1951, it is a memorial to the Allied soldiers who died in the Myanmar Campaign during World War II. The cemetery grounds are beautifully maintained and home to 27,000 graves.