Yangon
Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, is a bustling city that seamlessly blends colonial architecture with vibrant street markets, golden pagodas, and a rich cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Yangon is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to February, when the weather is relatively cool, dry, and comfortable for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor sites.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Yangon, Myanmar:
By Air: Yangon has an international airport, Yangon International Airport (YIA), which is well-connected to various cities in Asia and beyond. You can fly directly to Yangon from major international airports, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and many others.
By Land: If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you can enter Myanmar by land. However, note that land border crossings may have certain restrictions and requirements, so it's important to check the current regulations and obtain the necessary visas and permits in advance.
By Train: Yangon is connected to several major cities in Myanmar via the railway network. You can take a train from various destinations, such as Mandalay, Bagan, or Naypyidaw, to reach Yangon. Train journeys provide an opportunity to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Myanmar.
By Bus: Yangon is well-connected to different parts of Myanmar by a network of buses. You can take long-distance buses from major cities and towns, including Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake, and more. Buses vary in terms of comfort and duration of travel, so choose reputable bus companies for a smoother journey.
By Boat: In some cases, particularly if you are traveling from neighboring countries like Thailand, you may have the option to travel to Yangon by boat. This typically involves taking a combination of bus and boat routes, with the final leg being a boat journey along the rivers connecting the two countries.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Yangon, Myanmar
Top 20 Attractions in Yangon
Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar, is rich in cultural heritage and offers a variety of attractions. Here are some top attractions to visit in Yangon:
Shwedagon Pagoda: A must-visit landmark, Shwedagon Pagoda is a magnificent golden temple complex and one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Myanmar. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate details, and the spiritual atmosphere.
Sule Pagoda: Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, Sule Pagoda is a historical and cultural landmark. It is believed to be over 2,000 years old and offers a glimpse into the city's past.
Bogyoke Aung San Market: This bustling market, also known as Scott Market, is a shopper's paradise. Explore its numerous shops and stalls offering a wide range of items, including traditional crafts, jewelry, textiles, and gemstones.
Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda: Known for its colossal reclining Buddha image, Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda is an impressive sight. The statue measures 66 meters in length and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Yangon Circular Train: Take a ride on the Yangon Circular Train, a scenic journey that loops around the city's outskirts. It provides an opportunity to witness the daily life of locals, pass through rural landscapes, and interact with fellow passengers.
National Museum: Immerse yourself in Myanmar's rich history and cultural heritage at the National Museum. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts, royal regalia, ancient artwork, and historical exhibits.
Kandawgyi Lake: Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Kandawgyi Lake, a picturesque body of water located in central Yangon. Take a leisurely walk along the lake's boardwalk, visit the Karaweik Hall, or enjoy a boat ride on the lake.
Yangon River Cruise: Embark on a river cruise along the Yangon River, offering scenic views of the city skyline and river life. Some cruises include visits to nearby attractions like Twante or Dala.
Botahtaung Pagoda: Visit Botahtaung Pagoda, known for its unique design and historical significance. Explore the interior chambers, which house ancient relics and artifacts.
Yangon Chinatown: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yangon's Chinatown, particularly in the evenings. Sample delicious street food, browse local shops, and immerse yourself in the bustling energy of this multicultural neighborhood.
angon City Hall: Admire the colonial-era architecture of Yangon City Hall, an iconic building located in the heart of the city. The building's unique blend of Burmese and European architectural styles is a sight to behold.
Bogyoke Park: Take a leisurely stroll or relax in Bogyoke Park, a peaceful green space in the city center. The park offers a serene atmosphere, beautiful trees, and benches for a moment of respite.
Saint Mary's Cathedral: Visit Saint Mary's Cathedral, an impressive Catholic church that stands as a symbol of Yangon's religious diversity. Its beautiful Gothic-style architecture and serene interior make it a noteworthy attraction.
Botataung Jetty: Explore Botataung Jetty, a bustling waterfront area along the Yangon River. Watch the comings and goings of boats, enjoy views of the river, and observe the local maritime activities.
Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue: Discover the Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue, a historic Jewish place of worship that dates back to the 19th century. Explore its unique architecture and learn about the Jewish community in Myanmar.
National Races Village: Experience the cultural diversity of Myanmar at the National Races Village, an open-air museum showcasing the traditional houses and customs of different ethnic groups from across the country.
Hlawga National Park: Escape the city for a day trip to Hlawga National Park, located on the outskirts of Yangon. Explore the lush forests, encounter wildlife, and enjoy activities such as birdwatching, boating, and hiking.
People's Park and People's Square: Visit People's Park and People's Square, a large recreational area with beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking paths. The park is a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.
Yangon Circular Road Night Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Yangon Circular Road Night Market, where you can browse a wide range of stalls selling clothes, accessories, electronics, and street food. Immerse yourself in the lively energy of the market and enjoy the local street food delicacies.
Yangon Art Galleries: Yangon has a burgeoning art scene, and art galleries like Pansodan Gallery and Lokanat Gallery are worth a visit. Explore the contemporary artworks by local artists, showcasing various styles and mediums, and gain insight into Myanmar's modern art scene.
Top 10 Activities
Explore Shwedagon Pagoda: Spend time exploring the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar's most sacred Buddhist site. Marvel at its golden stupas, intricate details, and spiritual ambiance.
Walk along the Yangon Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the Yangon Riverfront, enjoying views of the river, bustling activity, and the city skyline. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere of the city.
Visit Bogyoke Aung San Market: Browse through the bustling Bogyoke Aung San Market, known for its wide range of products, including handicrafts, gems, clothing, and traditional Burmese items. Shop for souvenirs or immerse yourself in the vibrant local market scene.
Discover Yangon's Colonial Architecture: Take a walking tour around downtown Yangon to appreciate the city's colonial architecture. Admire buildings such as the Yangon City Hall, Strand Hotel, and Secretariat Building, reflecting the city's historical past.
Sample Local Street Food: Explore the street food scene in Yangon and indulge in delicious local delicacies such as mohinga (fish noodle soup), samosas, tea leaf salad, and barbecued skewers. Venture into bustling markets or visit street food stalls to savor the flavors of Myanmar.
Visit the National Museum: Immerse yourself in Myanmar's history and culture at the National Museum. Discover ancient artifacts, royal regalia, traditional artworks, and historical exhibits that provide insight into the country's rich heritage.
Enjoy a Yangon Circular Train Ride: Experience the charm of the Yangon Circular Train, which loops around the city's outskirts. Hop on the train for a scenic journey, observing local life, rural landscapes, and vibrant markets along the way.
Explore the Cultural Diversity of Chinatown: Wander through Yangon's bustling Chinatown, filled with narrow streets, vibrant markets, and an array of delicious food stalls. Experience the cultural diversity, try Chinese-Burmese fusion cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Take a Sunset Boat Ride on Inya Lake: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Inya Lake, especially during sunset. Take in the peaceful surroundings, spot local fishermen, and witness the beautiful colors of the sky reflecting on the water.
Experience Yangon's Nightlife: Explore the city's vibrant nightlife scene by visiting popular bars, rooftop lounges, or live music venues. Enjoy a drink, mingle with locals and fellow travelers, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Best Shopping
Yangon offers a diverse shopping experience with a range of markets, malls, and specialty stores. Here are some of the best shopping destinations in Yangon:
Bogyoke Aung San Market: Also known as Scott Market, Bogyoke Aung San Market is a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts. It houses hundreds of shops selling a variety of products, including gemstones, jewelry, traditional handicrafts, clothing, textiles, artwork, and more. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local market scene.
Theingyi Zei Market: Located in downtown Yangon, Theingyi Zei Market is a bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, dried goods, traditional snacks, and household items. It's a vibrant and authentic market experience, perfect for exploring the local food culture and everyday shopping.
Junction City: Junction City is a modern shopping mall in the heart of Yangon. It features a range of international and local brands, offering clothing, accessories, electronics, cosmetics, and more. The mall also has restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options.
Sule Square: Sule Square is another popular shopping destination in downtown Yangon. It houses a variety of shops, including fashion boutiques, beauty stores, jewelry shops, and electronics outlets. The mall also features restaurants, a food court, and a cinema complex.
Pansodan Street Bookshops: Pansodan Street is known for its collection of bookshops, offering a wide range of new and second-hand books, including rare and vintage editions. Book lovers can spend hours exploring the shelves and discovering literary treasures.
Golden Valley Shopping Centre: Located in the affluent Golden Valley neighborhood, this shopping center caters to the upper end of the market. It features high-end boutiques, designer stores, and specialty shops offering luxury goods, fashion, and home decor.
Yuzana Plaza: Yuzana Plaza is a shopping complex with multiple floors housing various shops, including clothing stores, beauty salons, electronics outlets, and more. It's a popular spot for local shoppers, offering a range of affordable options.
Yangon Zay: Yangon Zay is a modern shopping mall with a mix of international and local brands. It features a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items. The mall also has a food court and entertainment facilities.
When shopping in Yangon, be prepared to haggle for prices in local markets, but in shopping malls, fixed prices are more common. It's also important to keep an eye on the authenticity and quality of products, particularly when purchasing gemstones or jewelry. Enjoy exploring the shopping scene in Yangon and discovering unique treasures to take home.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Yangon offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of options for entertainment, dining, and socializing. Here are some of the best nightlife and entertainment venues in Yangon:
Yangon Chinatown: Explore the bustling streets of Yangon's Chinatown, particularly in the evening. The area comes alive with street food stalls, lively markets, and vibrant atmosphere, offering a fantastic opportunity to indulge in local culinary delights and experience the lively ambiance.
Bogyoke Aung San Road: Bogyoke Aung San Road, also known as BARS Street, is a popular nightlife area in Yangon. It is lined with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs, offering a lively atmosphere, live music, and drinks. It's a great place to unwind, socialize, and enjoy live performances.
19th Street in Pabedan Township: 19th Street is a vibrant and bustling street known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of street food stalls, particularly grilled seafood and barbecue. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors to gather, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the energetic ambiance.
Thirsty Thursday: Thirsty Thursday is a well-known weekly event held at various venues in Yangon, offering a chance to socialize, network, and enjoy live music, DJs, and drinks. It's a popular event among expats and locals alike.
Live Music and Performances: Yangon has a growing live music scene, with various venues featuring local and international bands, artists, and DJs. Places like The Penthouse, The Gypsy, and The French Institute often host live music performances and DJ sets.
Karaoke Bars: Karaoke is a popular form of entertainment in Yangon, and you can find numerous karaoke bars throughout the city. Sing your heart out with friends, enjoy a few drinks, and have a memorable night of singing and laughter.
Cinema Halls: If you enjoy watching movies, Yangon has several cinema halls where you can catch the latest local and international releases. Check out venues like Mingalar Cinemas or Nay Pyi Taw Cinema for a cinematic experience.
Rooftop Bars: Enjoy the city skyline views and a sophisticated atmosphere at one of Yangon's rooftop bars. Places like Vista Bar, Atlas Rooftop Bar, or The Blind Tiger offer a chance to sip cocktails, socialize, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Local Cuisine
Yangon offers a diverse and flavorful culinary scene that showcases the rich flavors and influences of Myanmar's cuisine. Here are some highlights of the cuisine in Yangon:
Mohinga: Considered Myanmar's national dish, Mohinga is a popular breakfast dish in Yangon. It consists of rice noodles served in a flavorful fish-based broth, accompanied by crispy fritters, boiled eggs, and an array of condiments.
Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke): A must-try dish in Yangon, tea leaf salad is a unique and vibrant Burmese specialty. It combines fermented tea leaves with crunchy nuts, fried garlic, sesame seeds, tomatoes, and other ingredients, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Shan Noodles: Originating from the Shan State in Myanmar, Shan noodles have become a beloved dish in Yangon. The dish typically features flat rice noodles tossed in a tangy sauce, topped with marinated pork, roasted peanuts, and fresh herbs.
Burmese Curry: Yangon offers a wide variety of flavorful Burmese curries, including chicken, beef, mutton, and fish. These curries are often made with a rich blend of spices and herbs, resulting in a fragrant and delicious dish served with rice or flatbread.
Burmese Street Food: Yangon is a paradise for street food lovers, with an abundance of food stalls and vendors offering a wide range of delectable treats. Sample snacks like samosas, grilled skewers, fried tofu, moun gyaw (fried pastries), and a variety of savory fritters.
Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal city, Yangon is renowned for its fresh seafood. Head to one of the seafood restaurants along the riverfront or explore the local fish markets for a variety of grilled or steamed fish, prawns, squid, and more.
Mandalay-style Barbecue: Enjoy the unique flavors of Mandalay-style barbecue, a popular dining experience in Yangon. Grilled skewers of meats, vegetables, and tofu are accompanied by a range of flavorful dipping sauces and side dishes.
Indian and Chinese Cuisine: Yangon's culinary scene is also influenced by its large Indian and Chinese communities. You can find a wide range of Indian curries, biryanis, dosas, and Chinese dishes like dim sum, stir-fries, and noodles.
Sweet Treats: Indulge in Yangon's sweet treats like Mont Lone Yay Paw (layered cakes), Kyauk Kyaw (jelly), Htoum Shwe Pwar (sticky rice and coconut dessert), and various traditional snacks made from rice, coconut, and jaggery.
Yangon offers a culinary adventure with a mix of traditional Burmese dishes, street food delights, and international flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local food markets, street stalls, and traditional restaurants to savor the authentic flavors of Yangon's cuisine.
Accommodations
When visiting Yangon, there are several areas that offer convenient access to attractions, dining options, and transportation. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay in Yangon:
Downtown Yangon: Staying in downtown Yangon puts you in the heart of the city, with easy access to many attractions, including Sule Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Market, and the colonial buildings of Pansodan Street. This area also offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.
Bahan Township: Bahan Township is a residential area known for its quieter atmosphere and proximity to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. Staying here allows you to enjoy a peaceful environment while being close to one of Myanmar's most significant landmarks.
Yankin Township: Yankin Township is a popular residential area with a mix of residential complexes, restaurants, and shopping centers. It offers a more local experience and is located relatively close to attractions like Inya Lake and the Yangon Circular Train station.
Kandawgyi Lake Area: The Kandawgyi Lake area, located northeast of downtown Yangon, is known for its beautiful lake and scenic views. This area offers a tranquil atmosphere and a range of accommodation options. It's an ideal choice if you prefer a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Golden Valley: Situated northwest of downtown Yangon, Golden Valley is an upscale residential area known for its affluent neighborhoods and luxurious accommodations. This area offers a more exclusive and serene environment, with easy access to restaurants and amenities.
Near Yangon International Airport: If you have an early or late flight, or if you prefer to stay near the airport for convenience, there are several hotels located near Yangon International Airport. Staying in this area is particularly convenient for short stays or business travelers.
Itinerary
Mystical Yangon: A 3-Day Cultural Journey
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, soaking in the spiritual ambiance and marveling at its golden splendor.
Afterward, wander through downtown Yangon, admiring the colonial architecture along Pansodan Street and exploring the vibrant stalls and shops at Bogyoke Aung San Market.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Yangon Riverfront, enjoying views of the river and soaking in the local atmosphere.
End the day with a visit to Sule Pagoda, located at the heart of the city, and observe the bustling activity around this historic landmark.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors
Start the day by visiting Botahtaung Pagoda, known for its unique design and historical significance. Explore the interior chambers and learn about the pagoda's rich history.
Experience the local way of life by hopping on the Yangon Circular Train, taking a scenic ride around the city's outskirts. Observe local communities, rural landscapes, and vibrant markets along the way.
Enjoy a traditional Burmese lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Mohinga, Tea Leaf Salad, or Shan Noodles.
Spend the afternoon exploring the National Museum, immersing yourself in Myanmar's rich history and cultural heritage.
In the evening, head to Chinatown and indulge in the vibrant street food scene. Sample local delicacies, such as grilled skewers, noodles, and savory snacks.
Day 3: Serenity and Scenic Beauty
Start the day with a visit to Kandawgyi Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of Yangon. Take a leisurely walk along the lake's boardwalk, capturing beautiful views of the water and surrounding gardens.
Explore the Yangon cityscape from a different perspective with a visit to a rooftop bar or restaurant. Enjoy panoramic views of the city as you sip on refreshing beverages and savor delicious cuisine.
Visit the Botataung Jetty area and take a boat ride along the Yangon River, observing the local maritime activities and enjoying the riverside views.
Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening at one of Yangon's spas, indulging in a traditional massage or wellness treatment, rejuvenating your body and mind.
