Yangon may have lost its status as the capital of Myanmar, but it has not lost its charm. The city blends British colonial architecture and modern developments with shining Buddhist temples and pagodas that will amaze visitors. The clear blue lakes, shady parks and lush tropical plants make Yangon a “Garden of the East”. From the air, Yangon looks serene and stunning in the sunset. The glittering golden towers mingle with residential areas, hidden by green trees. The countless golden spires that color the sky and the land give Myanmar the name “The Land of Pagodas and Towers”.

About Yangon

They changed the capital of Myanmar to Naypyidaw in 2006, but until now, Yangon is remembered as the charming ancient capital lies at the junction of Yangon and Bago rivers when people mention to Myanmar.

Yangon, which was professionally planned by the British, is now like an elegant artist but lose the edge. The roads are straight like a chessboard without small alleys. There are slum and shabby apartment blocks that seems the "typical" areas of Chinese and Indians. The streets and houses seem all need to repaired and maintained". Besides, there are still rich, ancient and luxurious villas, architecture works seems prevail over the ones in Indochina left by the French. After a long time of "taking a break," many new projects are hurriedly constructed showing the aspiration of development accelerating of Myanmar people.

We should visit the pagodas in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strong heat in dry season.

Yangon Lake

Also called Kandawgyi Lake or Victoria Lakes, Great Lakes locates east of Shwedagon Pagoda with water coming from Inya Lake flowing through a system of water pipes. This 61-hectare lake is surrounded by the 45-hectare Kandawgyi Nature Park and the 28-hectare Yangon Zoo with a zoo, an oceanographic institute and an amusement park.

This is an artificial lake was originally built to create a clean water supply for the British colonial government at the time.

The lake is famous for its boardwalk which wraps around the water and be the best place to go for a stroll in the evening. You can also find musical performances held in the park while walking here. If you want to try a favorite local activity in Yangon then you can go down to here and feed the resident amazing catfish with bread.

Even though it is not the biggest one, the lake is definitely the most famous one of the city.

Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple

is one of the largest religious buildings in Myanmar and known for the statue of a reclining Buddha which is 217 foot long. The statue with the amazing details is considered one of the most splendid Buddha statues in the world. When it first made, the face was quite severe but after several times revised, it now so lively and you can enjoy all the intricate details and design touches up close such as the long eyelashes of Buddha and the inscribed feet. The temple locates outside of downtown but your visit will be worth with its impressive beauty.

The National Museum

Built in 1996, is a magnificent five-story building, showcasing the rich collection of Myanmar's history and culture in the fields of archeology, ethnography, and tradition, religion and culture - art...

Here you will also find a whole range of Burmese artifacts as well as galleries filled with antiques and other regalia that date back to the Konbaung Dynasty.

It has one of the best collections of antiques in Southeast Asia and this is the place cannot be missed if you interested in Burmese craftsmanship and heritage items.

After the rainy season, Yangon transforms into a vibrant green paradise from November to February. Enjoy leisurely strolls around the spacious areas of Inya Lake and Kandawgyi Lake. As the sun sets, witness the breathtaking reflection on the calm waters – a sight not to be missed.

A variety of transportation options in Yangon.

Yangon offers a wide range of transportation options to suit every traveler's needs and budget. Here are the most popular ways to get around:

• Taxis: Yangon offers a variety of taxi options to suit your needs. Traditional taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through your hotel, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. For a more convenient and transparent option, try ride-hailing apps like Grab.

• Buses: Yangon has an extensive bus network operated by YBS, offering affordable transportation options. However, the buses can get quite crowded, and language barriers may pose a challenge for foreign travelers as signs are not always in English.
• Bicycles: Cycling is a fantastic way to discover Yangon's hidden gems and enjoy the city's peaceful atmosphere. Many accommodations offer bike rentals, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
• Tuk-tuks: While not as prevalent as in other Southeast Asian cities, tuk-tuks can still be found in certain parts of Yangon. They're a great option for short trips and offer a more local experience. Remember to negotiate the fare before your journey
• Circular Train: Take a leisurely ride on the circular train to experience Yangon's diverse neighborhoods and rural outskirts. It's more than just transportation; it's a journey into the heart of local life.

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