Yangon

Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)

Yangon is the largest city and the most vibrant in Myanmar and situated in the southern part of the country on the east bank of the river Yangon (Hlaing River). The city has a lot to offer and some spectacular sights can be explored such as the Buddhist temples, pagodas and stupas. When arriving by air, you will see amazing golden domes dotted around the city and an amazing greenery.

Population:

Approximately 5.2 Million

Currency:

Kyats, 1 Kyat = 100 Pyas

Kyat is the official currency, but the US Dollar is traded everywhere, including state run sites such as the main pagodas.

Emergency Numbers:

Emergency: 192
Police: 199
Fire Brigade: 191

Opening Hours:

Shops are generally open from 9am to 9pm, though street markets may close later.

Newspapers:

Myanmar Times
The Light of Myanmar

The City

Yangon is the capital city of Myanmar. It used to be called Rangoon, and the country Burma, by the British. Its history easily goes back to the 1st century, but its most turbulent times have come in the last two centuries.

Colonised by Britain in 1825, the country regained independence in 1948, so for 113 years, the country was under British rule. It is very clear, even today, how much influence the British had in the city of Yangon with the remains of some fine old colonial buildings. Sadly only a few have been maintained, and these are generally now hotels or restaurants.

However, any visitor to Yangon will probably be more interested in the long history of Myanmar that is found at the Shwedagon Pagoda. Dagon was the original name of Yangon and this mighty golden pagoda, is one of the most important Buddhist monuments in the world. It is thought to be situated in the region of 2,500 years old, and has survived earthquakes, occupations and fires. Over the years it has been remodelled, renovated and restored. It is the most magnificent pagoda anyone could ever wish to see, and to some extent, is Yangon.

Do & See

Yangon is a fascinating destination with things to see in pretty much every street corner. There are temples and pagodas and museums everywhere and it is a treat to simply walk around and soak up the atmosphere.

Dining

There are strong influences from the neighbouring countries and cuisines of Thailand, Malaysia and China, so there’s a good mix of dishes in the restaurants. Some of the favourite local dishes are Mohinga (Rice noodles in fish soup-Myanmar National Dish), Kyther Hin (Traditional chicken curry) and Nga Phe Ohn No Chet (Fish cake in coconut curry).

Cafes

Alongside Kandawgwi Lake there are a number of cafés serving food all day. You can also find cafés throughout the whole city, so you can just pick a place to sit down and rest your legs while touring.