What to See
Shwedagon Pagoda
It is the landmark of the country, towering about 100meters (326ft) above the ground . The monument itself is famous for its wonderful architectural design. One of the wonders of the world, it was believed to have been built over 2500 years ago where the four Buddhas’ relics were enshrined. Successive kings had embellished the Pagoda during the 15th century and Queen Shin Saw Pu raised it to its present height.
There are a number of sites on the pagoda platform which will be of interest to visitors. A visit to Myanmar is incomplete without a visit to Shwedagon which is not only a historical site but also a renowned religious place of worship for the Buddhists.
Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda
The Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda is famous for its huge images of Reclining Buddha, built by Sir Po Tha in1907. But it was suffered damage due to climate and World War II over the years. In 1957 it was demolished and rebuilt to this structure in 1966. It measures 72 meters and is housed in an iron structure with corrugated iron sheets roof of six layers. There are over 50 monasteries surrounding it. Along the corridors of the pagoda are small shopping spots where one can see different items of interest.
Sule Pagoda
This pagoda is situated right in the heart of Yangon city near the town hall . One distinctive feature of the pagoda is its octagonal shape. The ancient Mon name is Kyaik Athoke. The pagoda, which measures 48ms in height, is believed to be enshrined with 2 hair relics of the Buddha.
Botataung Bagoda
It is also known as “ Sandawshin Kyaik-day-art” and was built by King Okkalapa. The pagoda was destroyed during the second world war and was rebuilt in a new structural form whereby the worshippers can enter the repository and pay homage to the enshrined relics which include the two strands of hair of the Buddha. It is situated near the bank of the Yangon River and is widely known as the one and only type of pagoda in Myanmar wherein the enshrined relics can be reached by the worshippers.
Kaba Aye Pagoda and Maha Pasana Cave
Kaba Aye Pagoda is known as “ The World Peace Pagoda”. It was built to commemorate the Sixth Buddhist Syond in 1954, which was held in Maha Pasana Guha (Cave) within the same compound.
Gem Museum
Gem Museum which also houses numerous jewelry shops and the museum host gem auction reveal times a year. Myanmar is famous for its Jade, rubies and sapphires, natural pearls as well as many other precious and semi precious stones.
National Museum
There are many valuable and interesting exhibits in the museum one of which being the golden throne of King Thibow , the last king of Konbong Dynasty, dating back to the 19th century. And also displayed therein are rare stone inscriptions and artifacts of the ancient times, traditional musical instruments, paintings and so on. It is open from 10:00 to 16:00.
Kandawgyi Royal Lake
Kandawgyi as it known is a Royal Lake. Up grading and renovation as city of Garden Park. One side are the restaurant known as Karaweik Palace housed on a barge depicting the mythical bird, the Karaweik. Moving down the heart of the city and the down town area, one come across the Sule Pagoda. Near Sule Pagoda is Yangon City Hall and Independence Monument. Towards the northern of the city, is the Inya lake. On it's southern shores lies one of the compasses of the Yangon University. The Sailing Club is also found at this lake.
Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market)
Bogyoke Aung San Market where the local as well as imported goods are available and is situated in the heart of Yangon. The market was first built and inaugurated on the present premises in 1926. It was named Scott Market after Mr. C. Scott, the Municipal Commissioner. Nowadays, it is called Bogyoke Aung San Market in honor of our national leader General Aung San Market is the most popular market and a great tourist destination in Yangon. It is one of the precious colonial buildings you can find in Yangon. This place is noted for its variety handicrafts, gems and jewels, other items and become an excellent place for shopping.
Lawka Chantha Abhaya Lahba Muni Image
Marble Image's; in Yangon the biggest marble images was enshrined only a couple of years on Min Dhama Hill. The marble, 37 ft high and 24ft wide by 12 ft thick was the biggest found for. The formal title of the image is the Lawka Chantha Abhaya Lahba Muni Image, the Great Image to Protect the World from Strife and bring it Joy and Prosperity.