Yangon Travel Guides

Reference WW40510

Yangon is Myanmar's largest and most interesting city, and its economic and diplomatic centre despite the 2005 creation of remote Naypyidaw as the official capital.

The city was occupied by the British in 1852 when it became the centre of the Burmese Raj. The resulting influx of traders, diplomats and wealth transformed the city into a glorious regional hub. The legacy of this time is evident in the decaying though stately colonial buildings found along the Rangoon River and toward the centre of town. The city has myriad tourist attractions, most notably the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, which justifies a visit to the city all by itself and is the country's most beloved landmark. There are also markets to explore, and Yangon is a glorious city to trawl for jewels.

Sightseeing in Yangon

The shining jewel of Yangon's many attractions is Schwedagon Pagoda, the golden temple visible throughout the city and an iconic sight emblematic of the country and its strong Buddhist traditions. Other major attractions include the 2,200-year-old Sule Pagoda, the fragrant exoticism of Little India and Chinatown, and the vibrant night markets including Bogyoke Aung San Market, which is also arguably the best place to change money. Inle Lake is lined with gardens and luxurious villas and provides a cooling distraction at sunset when locals and visitors enjoy the views. Other popular attractions in Yangon include the Taukkyan War Cemetery, a beautifully maintained graveyard and memorial to those who died fighting the Japanese in World War II; the Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue and Old Jewish Cemetery; and the Kyaikto, or Golden Rock, which is a glorious landmark.

The city has seen a big increase in tourists recently and infrastructure is improving to accommodate visitors, but one hopes Yangon won't lose its charm and off-the-beaten-track appeal as it becomes more popular. It is a safe and exciting city to explore, though it is still a bit rough around the edges.