Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar, is a vibrant blend of cultural heritage and urban charm. Myanmar’s largest city is welcoming a tourism boom after several decades of isolation. Shiny new skyscrapers have sprung up amid beautifully restored colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, and fisherman’s huts. Here are the top 10 places to visit:
1. Shwedagon Pagoda
The Shwedagon Pagoda is a prominent, vast Buddhist temple located in the city of Yangon in Myanmar. It is over 2500 years old with a rich history and architecture, making it one of the top sacred sites for the people of Myanmar. Also called Paya, the pagoda is known for the characteristic giant golden stupa that dominates the city skyline. Shwedagon is among the top attractions for tourists exploring Yangon City and is a must-visit for every traveler.
2. Kandawgyi Lake
Kandawgyi is an artificial Lake located at the city center of Yangon in Myanmar. It is a popular attraction for locals as well as tourists who come to enjoy a quiet stroll along the walkways and beautiful sunset views across the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, which is located next to the lake.
3. Sule Pagoda
Located in the heart of Yangon, the Sule Pagoda is a Burmese stupa believed to be built during the time of the Buddha, about 2,600 years ago. It is surrounded by various structures of historical, business, and cultural significance and is visited by devotees from across the world. This is one of the most ancient places to visit in Myanmar and deserves a visit for its religious importance, beautiful architecture, and holy charm.
4. Chaukhtatgyi Paya
Home to one of the most revered and the largest reclining statues of Buddha, the Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple is among the most memorable places to visit in Myanmar. Its 65-meter-long Buddha’s white face is finished with bright red lips and blue eyeshadow while the feet have 108 intricately designed Lakshanas describing the noble characteristics of the Buddha. Local monks from nearby monasteries can be seen wandering here worshipping Buddha’s teachings. The place is visited by tourists and devotees from across the world and fills them with a spiritual aura.
5. Kandawgyi Nature Park
An oasis of green in central Yangon, Kandawgyi Nature Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spanning 260 acres (105 hectares, including Kandawgyi Lake, the park is a popular recreation and relaxation spot and a great place to enjoy the scenery, people watch, and experience local culture.
6. Yangon City Hall
Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, Yangon City Hall is the official seat of the city’s administrative body, the Yangon City Development Committee. A historic and architectural landmark, the building is widely considered one of the most beautiful examples of mixed British colonial and traditional Burmese architecture.
7. Botataung Pagoda
The Botataung Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist temple located on the banks of the river in the city of Yangon in Myanmar. It is known for the relics that were obtained about 2500 years ago, making it one of the prominent places of worship for the people of Myanmar. The tall golden stupa and its excellent location overlooking the Yangon river make the Botataung Pagoda worth a visit for tourists in the city.
8. National Museum
The National Museum is located in the Dagon region in the city of Yangon in Myanmar. It is one of the two major national museums in the country dedicated to Burmese art, history, and culture. Spreading over five storeys, the museum has massive collections in all these, making it one of the top attractions for people visiting Yangon to get to know the country well.
9. Yangon Zoological Garden
Yangon Zoological Garden is located in the city center of Yangon in Myanmar. Consisting of over 1000 animals belonging to more than 100 species, it is the second-largest enclosure in the country. The massive garden also houses a museum of natural history, an aquarium, and an amusement park. It is among the most visited attractions in the city, drawing around 2 million people, including tourists from across the world.
10. Bogyoke Aung San Market
Stalls burst with colorful cloth, souvenirs, gems, wooden carvings, and other wares at Bogyoke Aung San Market. Built-in the waning years of British rule, the market’s cobblestone alleys and historic façade draw a lively mix of visitors and locals. A food court offers a colorful feast, from spicy noodles to ultra-fresh salads.
