Yangon Travel Information
Yangon Description:
Though Naypyidaw became Myanmar’s capital city in 2005, Yangon (Rangon) is still the country’s largest and most diverse city.
Originally a city called Dagon founded in the 11th century by the Mon ethnic group of peoples, Yangon would rise to prominence as the capital of Myanmar (then Burma) under British colonial administration in the 19th century. The colonial architecture and wide boulevards left behind by the British are well intact, and the spacious parks and man-made lakes in town ad considerable charm to the city.
Of the seemingly endless number of Buddhist monuments within in Yangon, Shwedagon Paya is the city’s most iconic shrine and landmark. With the shrine’s golden stupa reaching more than 300 feet into the air, the Shwedagon Paya is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The stupa is wrapped in 27 tons of gold leaf, and the ancient shrine that predates the founding of the city in the 11th century is believed to house eight hairs from Lord Buddha’s head.
Other excellent stops in the city include the Chaukhtatgyi Paya, which houses a 200-feet-long golden reclining Buddha image, and the Botataung Paya that has a unique stupa with a golden corridor that visitors can walkthrough to see the holy relics enshrined inside the ancient Buddhist monument.
Best Time to Visit Yangon:
The best weather to visit the city of Yangon falls between November and May during the cooler dry season in Myanmar. In June warmer weather comes to the region, and the hotter weather lasts into October along with higher chances of rain.
How to get to Yangon:
The thrilling mix of British Colonial architecture, massive Buddhist monuments wrapped in gold, and scenic parks and man-made lakes make Yangon one of the most memorable and unique cities in Southeast Asia. We consider it a must-see on our luxury tours of Myanmar.
Yangon Highlights:
Yangon is located in the southern portion of Myanmar. Our guests typically reach the city via a direct flight to Yangon International Airport.
Appropriate Attire:
While Yangon is a fairly modern city with a diverse population, the majority of its historic sites and monuments are sacred Buddhist enclaves and shrines. As such, it’s important for travelers to dress modestly while exploring these ancient religious monuments. Clothing options that cover at least your shoulders, arms, and knees are recommended for most excursions within the city.
