Yangon Myanmar Travel Guide – What to see and where to dine in Yangon - By: Exotissimo Traveler

Considered one of the most picturesque cities in the Orient, Yangon was founded by King Alaungpaya in 1755. The city has a population of about 5 million, but yet retains much of its charming old-time feel. Yangon is also known as the “Garden City of the East”, owing to the tree-lined streets, shaded parks and two lakes Kandawgyi (Royal Lake) and Inya Lake that fill the city. On a first visit, make sure you do not miss the Shwedagon Pagoda, a magnificent gold-covered pagoda that has come to stand as the country’s icon. And if you have time to spare after browsing the Bogyoke Aung San Market and savoring Burmese cuisine at one of the city’s cozy restaurants serving traditional dishes, we highly recommend crossing the Yangon River to Dhala on the opposite bank for a glimpse into life in Myanmar’s countryside.

What to see in Yangon?

First time visitors should not miss the Shwedagon Pagoda, a magnificent gold leaf covered pagoda that has come to be the country’s icon. Other temple sites not to be missed are the Sule Paya with an octagonal-shaped dome, the Botataung Pagoda with the sacred hair of Lord Buddha enshrined, and the Chaukhtetgyi Pagoda with a 70-metres reclining Buddha statue. Finally, there is the Kaba Aye Pagoda within which is the Buddhist Art Museum and Maha Pasana Cave. For aspiring yogis and meditation devotees, it is worthwhile to check out Mahasi Meditation Centre and International Meditation Centre, both of which offer full-time meditation courses.

To seek out intriguing shopping finds, Bogyoke Aung San Market is an excellent choice. Constructed in 1926, the market is best known for its colonial architecture, inner cobblestone streets and wide selection of souvenirs. Head to Yangon’s Chinatown, a series of colorful streets filled with roadside stalls, market vendors and jewelry stores. Named after the sacred mythological bird, the Karaweik Hall is an imposing royal barge floating in the Kandawgyi Royal Lake. It makes a good spot to catch traditional Burmese arts performances as well as a beautiful view of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

Situated at the confluence of the Pazundaung Creek and Bago River, the Yangon River is an interesting spot to witness the local lifestyles. At the Yangon Nanthida Jetty, one can enjoy panoramic scenery and catch a magnificent sunset over the river. If you have time to spare, we highly recommend crossing the river to Dhala on the opposite bank for a glimpse into countryside lives in Myanmar, or Kyimyindaing where stone Buddha sculptures and the dyeing of monks’ yellow robes can be observed.

For history and culture buffs, the National Museum of Myanmar has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, art works and historic memorabilia on display in 14 halls in a splendid five-storey building. A visit to the National Races Village is a tour of Myanmar in a nutshell, where visitors can stroll through and view the 8 villages of Kachin, Kayah, Karen, Chin, Mon, Myanmar, Rakhine and Shan across the 117-acres compound. Unknown even to most Yangon natives, the Yangon War Cemetery is nestled deep in the city. A burial ground for the allied soldiers who died during World War II, the cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Just a 45 minutes drive from the city, the Hlawga Wildlife Park is home to over 70 kinds of herbivorous animals and 90 bird species, definitely an ideal place for picnickers, naturalists, botanists and bird watchers.

Where to dine in Yangon?

For a taste of authentic Myanmar cuisine, we recommend Padonmar Restaurant which features both traditional Myanmar and Thai cuisine with indoor and alfresco dining options. The Green Elephant Restaurant is another favorite of ours with a good selection of Burmese dishes served in a garden setting. The Monsoon Restaurant & Bar, housed in a spacious colonial style building, is a good spot to savor a variety of Asian specialties.

There is no lack of restaurants serving international food in Yangon. Le Planteur Restaurant has established a formidable standing in serving French cuisine tops with Burmese hospitality, while the Manis Restaurant & Bar features contemporary Western and oriental cuisines. Tokyo Restaurant & Bar remains a perennial eating hunt for its delicious and fresh Japanese selections. Sabai Sabai whips up a fiery concoction of Thai food. The handful of Chinese restaurants, such as Western Park and White Rice, carry a wide array of dishes.

Coffee shops have mushroomed across Yangon in recent years. For aromatic coffee brews with a panoramic view of downtown Yangon, head to Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro on the 20th floor of Sakura Tower. Another A-lister café is Mr Guitar, popular for its live bands and frequented by locals and expatriates alike.

About the Author

The Exotissimo Traveler is the persona we use at http://www.exotissimo.com to publish our travel reviews and suggestions, and to share with you our favorite places, hotels, restaurants and activities in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. Exotissimo Travel is a leading Inbound Tour Operator in Southeast Asia. With 15 offices throughout Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, we offer tailor-made packages and travel services including tours, hotels bookings and day trips.

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