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Shwedagon Pagoda
The Shwedagon Pagoda, when first seen shining over the treetops of Yangon, inspires wonder and awe, but it is only when visitors reach the high platform that its full magnificence can be seen.
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More Pagodas
In this land of pagodas, Yangon has its fair share aside from the Shwedagon: Tiny gold spires can be spotted even by the side of downtown streets that were once dusty paths meandering through the woods.
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Other Religious Sites
Although Buddhism is the main faith of Myanmar, the variety of religious monuments that can be seen around the city give it a cosmopolitan ambience and instils the sense that it is at the crossroads of many cultures.
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Colonial Architecture
The charm of Yangon is enhanced by the many colonial buildings that stand like monuments near the river or sprawl in red-bricked Victorian splendour. Most of them are now government-owned office buildings that have been included on a heritage list, which gives official protected status to nearly 200 structures in Yangon.
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Museums
The National Museum on Pyay Road holds a collection of royal regalia, as well as the Lion Throne, the only one of the original nine from Mandalay Palace that has been preserved. The solid gold vases, trays, spittoons, water jugs and flower caskets now on display in separate cases were once arrayed in front of the throne for state occasions.
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Markets
Bogyoke Aung San Market was originally named Scott Market, after Municipal Commissioner Gavin Scott, when it was built in 1926. Following Independence in 1948 it was renamed in honour of the national hero and martyr Bogyoke Aung San.
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Beautiful Lakes
Modern Yangon has grown up around two breathtaking natural lakes, the centrally located Kandawgyi Lake and lnya Lake. Kandawgyi Lake, which means Royal Lake, is an oasis in the heart of the city.
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Public Parks
At Hlawga National Park, located only a few miles outside of Yangon, deer and monkeys roam free in the woods surrounding the Hlawga Reservoir.
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Indian and Chinese Quarters
West of Sule Pagoda Road downtown, you will find the bustling Indian and Chinese quarters with their own, particular flavours.
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Art Galleries
Bogyoke Aung San Market features one row of stalls where paintings are sold, most of which are copies of pieces by famous artists.
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