Still often referred to by it's former name, Rangoon, Yangon is the capital of Myanmar and is surrounded by water on three sides. Before becoming the national admin centre, the city was a thriving port. After the British left in 1947, Yangon went through a period of economic crisis but as time passed, the economy settled and the city began to flourish.

With a population of just 4 million, Yangon still has a colonial feel, reflected in some of the city's stunning architecture. Major roads through the city include Strand Road, Merchant Street and Mahabandoola Street where beautiful old colonial buildings still line the sidewalks. Local markets, temples and peaceful lakes give Yangon a unique atmosphere.

Local arts and crafts, mostly hand-made, are found at many stalls and small markets around the city and make wondeful souvenirs. Favourite items include lacquerware, wood and ivory carvings, tapestries, silver and brassware. Rubies, sapphires, jade and pearls are available in the city's gem shops.

Places of interest

Shwedagon Pagoda
The Shwedagon Pagoda is Yangon's most visible landmark, almost 100m above the city and visible from miles around. Built over 2500 years ago, a visit to Yangon isn't complete without a visit here.
Entrance Fee $5

People's Square & People's Park
Covering over 130 acres between Shwedagon Pagoda and Parliament House, this area has a museum housing life-size models of ethnic groups in their colourful dress and an excellent restaurants serving Burmese, Chinese and European cuisine.
Entrance Fee $5

National Museum
Good exhibits of the Lion Throne and 19th century Royal Regalia including ancient artifacts, musical instruments and paintings. Entrance Fee $5

Aung San Market
The main shopping centre of the city. Open daily.

Kaba Aye Pagoda
Translates to “World Peace”, to which this pagoda is dedicated. The Buddhist Art Museum and Maha Pasana Cave are also in the complex.

Chaukhtatkyi Pagoda
This huge eclining Buddha, over 70m long, is one of the largest in Myanmar.

Allied War Memorial Cemetery
Memorial for Allied Soldiers who died during the Second World War. The Cemetery’s beautifully kept ground has almost 30,000 gravestones.

Zoological Garden
Large collection of wild animals, flora and fauna, collected over the years. Snake dances and an elephant circus are performed Saturdays and Sundays.
Entrance Fee $5

Hlawga Wildlife Park
Covering 1650 acres of land, this is home to over 70 species of animals and 90 species of birds. Flocks of migratory birds are frequent visitors. Great spot for relaxing with a picnic.
Entrance Fee $5

Town Hall & Independence Monument
In the herat of the city, this is a good spot for people watching with a permanent crowd milling around.Town Hall and Independence Monument are usually alive with the teeming crowd during rush hours.