Yangon, formerly the capital city of Rangoon, remains the central and most important city in the country. Its neglected buildings retain great charm; a throwback a gentler era, crying out for some TLC to restore them to their former glory.
The Shwedagon Paya or the “Golden Pagoda” perched atop a hill in the heart of the city is certainly worth a visit. This magical pagoda comes alive at night, with throngs of devotees coming to pray and gossip with friends and family, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Some visitors believe that a day or two is plenty to explore the city of Yangon, but you could easily spend much longer exploring the many alleyway streets and lesser-known temples.
We always suggest a couple of nights at the beginning of your Burmese holiday adventure to get a feel for the country, staying at one of the colonial style hotels in the centre of town. You could also use Yangon as a base to venture out for overnight trips to the Golden Rock - the inspiration for Burmese Days by George Orwell, at the riverside town of Mawlamyine.
You will be spending very little time at your hotel, although a dip in the pool after a morning of sightseeing is a welcome respite from the humidity. Yangon is easy to see; most of our tours are done by car and foot so you can experience the city up front and personal.
Things to see and Do:
The Shwedagon Pagoda should be on everyone's list of things to see in Yangon; it is the most important religious site and spiritual heart of the country, built over 2500 years ago. Dusk is the best time to visit, as when the sun begins to set on the glittering golden pagoda, the lights come on and the complex takes on an altogether more enchanting atmosphere; a magical end to your day in Yangon.
Sule Pagoda located in downtown Yangon, built to house a strand of the Buddha’s hair over 2000 years ago, remains an oasis of calm and tranquillity in an otherwise busy area of the city.
Scott’s Market now renamed Bogyoke Market is a wonderful insight into everyday Burmese life with traders from all over Burma selling their wares. It is also a fantastic place to get those last minute gifts.
Aung San’s House is rarely visited, but this small, modest property will give you a little more insight into the renowned National Hero and father of Aung San Suu Kyi. You can look inside to see his books, clothes and even his car. Interesting, if you are interested!
Yangon’s Tea Houses are the best way of getting to know Burma and its people. These simple neighbourhood tea houses are ideal if you like to watch the world go by and mingle with the locals, who are invariably fun and entertaining in their conversations.
We always suggest a couple of nights at the beginning of your Burmese holiday adventure to get a feel for the country, staying at one of the colonial style hotels in the centre of town. You could also use Yangon as a base to venture out for overnight trips to the Golden Rock - the inspiration for Burmese Days by George Orwell, at the riverside town of Mawlamyine.
You will be spending very little time at your hotel, although a dip in the pool after a morning of sightseeing is a welcome respite from the humidity. Yangon is easy to see; most of our tours are done by car and foot so you can experience the city up front and personal.
Things to see and Do:
The Shwedagon Pagoda should be on everyone's list of things to see in Yangon; it is the most important religious site and spiritual heart of the country, built over 2500 years ago. Dusk is the best time to visit, as when the sun begins to set on the glittering golden pagoda, the lights come on and the complex takes on an altogether more enchanting atmosphere; a magical end to your day in Yangon.
Sule Pagoda located in downtown Yangon, built to house a strand of the Buddha’s hair over 2000 years ago, remains an oasis of calm and tranquillity in an otherwise busy area of the city.
Scott’s Market now renamed Bogyoke Market is a wonderful insight into everyday Burmese life with traders from all over Burma selling their wares. It is also a fantastic place to get those last minute gifts.
Aung San’s House is rarely visited, but this small, modest property will give you a little more insight into the renowned National Hero and father of Aung San Suu Kyi. You can look inside to see his books, clothes and even his car. Interesting, if you are interested!
Yangon’s Tea Houses are the best way of getting to know Burma and its people. These simple neighbourhood tea houses are ideal if you like to watch the world go by and mingle with the locals, who are invariably fun and entertaining in their conversations.
