Yangon, a city in Myanmar, captivates visitors with its blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and spiritual landmarks. As the country's largest city, Yangon tourism offers a myriad of experiences for travellers. The majestic Shwedagon Pagoda, adorned with gold and precious gems, stands as a testament to Myanmar's rich Buddhist heritage. Yangon travel guide reveals hidden gems like the Bogyoke Aung San Market, perfect for souvenir hunting. For a taste of local flavour, savour Burmese cuisine at street stalls or dine in traditional teahouses. Whether wandering through historic neighbourhoods or embarking on river cruises, Yangon promises an unforgettable adventure.
How to reach Yangon?
- By air: Yangon International Airport, located in Mingaladon is 15 km north of central Yangon. IndiGo now offers flights to Yangon with direct connectivity between Yangon and Kolkata, along with seamless connectivity to other destinations.
- Getting around/local transport in Yangon: Taxis are the most accessible means of transportation for commuting. The Yangon circular train serves as one of the primary means of local transport in the city. Local buses are operated by Yangon’s bus system and Trishaws (cycle rickshaws) are available to cover shorter distances.
Shwedagon Pagoda or Paya
The Shwedagon Pagoda, a dazzling symbol of Myanmar's spiritual legacy, enchants visitors with its golden splendour and profound tranquillity.
Exploration time: 1 hour
Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda
Exploration time: 1 hour
Sule Paya
Exploration time: 1 hour
Botahtaung Pagoda
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Kandawgyi Lake
Exploration time: 1 hourPlaces to eat
Yangon's travel guide experiences culinary delights, from street-side stalls serving aromatic noodles to upscale restaurants offering traditional Burmese flavours.
Things To Do
There are many things to do in Yangon and most of which includes the following:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Yangon is during the dry season from November to February when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal.
Most commonly spoken languages
The most commonly spoken languages in Yangon are Burmese, English, and various ethnic minority languages like Karen and Shan.
Any trip is incomplete without shopping and taking back souvenirs for your loved ones! The locals take pride in storytelling through sand paintings and the most interesting products to buy in Yangon include textiles, clothes, silverware, lacquerware, jewellery, sand painting and handicrafts.
- Bogyoke Aung San Market: Formerly called Scott Market, you can easily spend half a day wandering and checking out different things to buy at this popular, local market in Yangon. Sheltered in a large colonial building, it houses almost 1641 shops selling lacquerware, handicrafts, wood & ivory carvings, silverware, silk & cotton fabrics, clothing, tapestry and brassware.
- Yuzana Plaza: This old-school shopping mall has plenty of wholesale outlets. The shops on the ground floor sell beverages, packaged food and even pets. You will find shops selling locally made items and household appliances on the second floor.
- A Chinatown side street: If you like tailor-made shirts, then this is the place for you. Here, you can buy a traditional Burmese collar (Mandarin collar) at a reasonable price. The street also has an array of street vendors selling paintings, colonial coins and other souvenirs.
- Pansodan Street: Pansodan Street is lined with shops, bookstores, art galleries, and antique stores. It's a great place to explore if you're interested in vintage books, artwork, handicrafts, and antique items. You can find unique and one-of-a-kind treasures here.
Yangon's festivals are vibrant spectacles, blending cultural traditions with colourful celebrations, offering travellers unforgettable experiences in Myanmar's bustling capital.
More reasons to visit
Here are some of the other places to explore in Yangon on your trip.
- Aung San Suu Kyi's House: Aung San Suu Kyi is a famous Myanmar leader who has been under house arrest for 15 years, since 1989. Because of her charisma and contribution towards the nation, her house is a popular attraction in Yangon. People often visit to get a glimpse of this Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.
- Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: A wonder in itself, Kyaiktiyo or the Golden Rock Pagoda is another must-visit site in Yangon. You will be surprised to know that the pagoda hangs over a cliff edge 1100 metres above sea level, defying gravity.
- Allied War Memorial Cemetery: Located about 25 km from the north of Yangon, in the village of Taukkyan, this memorial cemetery was built in memory of Allied soldiers from the British Commonwealth who were killed in Burma during the Second World War. It has over 6400 graves of soldiers who died during the First and the Second World Wars in Burma. Also, visit the Rangoon Memorial which has pillars with names of more than 27,000 Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign during the Second World War.
- Yangon Zoo: Away from the bustle of the city, lies the Yangon Zoo. Built in the honour of Queen Victoria in 1901, the main highlight of the zoo is the white elephant belonging to the last king of Burma, King Thibaw. This 70-acre huge space boasts 1100 birds and animals of 200 different rare species including clouded leopards, Bengal tigers, marsh crocodiles and hornbills. Apart from animals, this zoological park is also home to a wide range of Southeast Asian flora. It is a fun sight, especially for kids.
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