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.
Yangon is hot and humid, especially at midday when most of the population take refuge indoors or in the shade of a temple or banyan tree. It is a noisy and chaotic place too, with congested traffic, orange-robed monks, neon signs and golden temple spires clashing in a visual landscape of uniquely Asian contradictions.
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- Currency The currency used in Yangon is the Burmese kyat.
- Flying time from the UK The average flight time from London to Yangon is 13h 15min.
- Primary Language The official language of Yangon is Burmese.
- Passport & Visas British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.