Yangon

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Yangon (Burmese: ရန်ကုန်), formerly Rangoon, was the former capital of Myanmar until it was replaced by Naypyidaw in November. 2005. Today, with a population of over 5 million people, it remains the largest city and the economic hub of Myanmar.

An introduction to Yangon

Shwedagon-Pano - The Shwedagon Pagoda.

As the nation's former capital, Yangon is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Myanmar, where you can find nightlife, quality international restaurants, and many of the nation's Museums. The city is an amalgamation of British, Burmese, Chinese, and Indian influences, known for its colonial architecture, which although decaying, remains an almost unique example of a 19th century British colonial capital in Asia. New high-rise buildings were constructed from the 1990s as the government began to allow private investment and with the introduction of reforms in 2013 many new buildings are being constructed and refurbished in the downtown. Meanwhile, former government buildings such as the massive Secretariat Building, have been left to rot as the capital was shifted to Naypyidaw.

Yangon's former name was not the only victim of change in this country. For one and the nation's name was changed. To add to the on-going identity crisis and the city has been stripped of its status as capital. The nation's capital has been relocated to a remote new site called Naypyidaw, built from scratch. The flag too has been changed, redesigned in 2010, replacing the old one which replaced another one slightly more than a decade ago.

While the government still requires foreigners to register their passports at hotels and private residences and the government no longer spends efforts to follow or otherwise monitor tourists and foreigners in Yangon. Note that it is illegal to stay in a private residence without registering with the local Township authorities.

Get in

By plane

• Yangon International Airport - Mingladon, IATA Code: RGN ca. 30 min north of the downtown—allow 2 hours during the rush hours - Yangon International Airport Ygnbusyairport There are several accommodation options in the immediate vicinity of the airport to fit every budget.

The easiest way to get to and from the airport is by taxi (US$10 from airport to city or 7,000 kyat from the city to airport, all pre-paid). It is feasible to use a public bus. If you exit the international terminal and turn right, walking along the road for about 10 min, you'll hit Pyay Road, from where you can take public bus 51 which will take you one block east of Sule Paya (200 kyat). Thus and the cheapest was to get to the airport is to take that bus, get off at Airport Road, and take a taxi for the remaining kilometre (about US$1 after bargaining). To get to the city you could theoretically ask the driver at the airport to drop you off at that bus stop if you don't feel like walking. The name of the bus stop is "Mile 10" on Pyay Road and it's line 51, but you might have trouble being understood if nobody writes it down for you in Burmese script with precise instructions (thus using this option to get to the airport is much easier because you can ask your hotel for help). Another option is to share a taxi.

International: There are direct connecting Flights to RGN from Bangkok, Hong Kong, Chiang Mai, Dubai, Dhaka, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Gaya, Kolkata, Kunming, Guangzhou, Hanoi,Ho Chi Minh City and Taipei. International Airlines servicing RGN include Thai-Airways, Emirates, Bangkok Air, Biman Bangladesh, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Korean Airlines, Silk-Air, Vietnam Airlines, China Airlines, Dragon Air and AirIndia. Coffee, tea and very basic Snacks (packaged biscuits and single serving cakes) are available inside the security area. The international terminal has free Wi-Fi.

Domestic: The domestic terminal is 200 m past the international terminal, and is old and tired looking. Facilities are minimal (espresso Coffee, tea, local limited hot food, and basic packaged Snacks are available) but, as a consequence, check-in is simple and quick and bags arrive quickly from arriving aircraft. Ancient buses ferry passengers to their aircraft. Pre-paid taxis are available, paid at the taxi counter inside the baggage claim area, but it is easier and affordableer to exit the terminal and negotiate directly with the taxi czar who controls the taxi trade at Mingladon. Try not to allow porters to carry your luggage, as they will demand specified tips and hassle you. This is especially a problem in the domestic terminal as there is no customs to pass through with your bags. If a porter has not attached himself to a hapless tourist, he may take random bags off the luggage trolley, hoping someone will follow him. The full service, with no going to counters or luggage concerns will cost a few thousand kyat.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Yangon

• Yangon Central Railway Station (jàɴɡòʊɴ bùdàdʑí) - GPS: 16.78118, 96.16179

There are several train lines that connect Yangon to the rest of Myanmar. Several trains daily connect Yangon to Mandalay via Bago (Myanmar)|Bago with connections to Bagan and the Inle Lake area at Thazi. Most trains leave early in the morning (02:00 or 03:00) and arrive late at night. Yangon-Mandalay fares for a sleeper are US$35-50, for a seat are US$30-40 in first class and US$10-15 in second class. There is also a direct train line between Yangon and Bagan (US$35) but trains take almost 24 hours for a bumpy journey and the change at Thazi is a better option.

The oldest line in Myanmar is the Yangon-Pyay line and it shows its age. But and the nine hours journey (US$15) along the Irrawaddy basin is well worth it. The Mawlamyine line is equally bumpy and the 9 hours express (06:15, US$17-11) and 11 hours slow train (07:00, US$14-5) is slightly longer than by road. On this trip in first class you get your own seat and it's slightly less crowded, but there isn't much else different between the classes. Trains also run to Pathein in the Irrawaddy delta but are very slow and the bus is a better alternative.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Yangon

A hundred and fifty years ago, boats were the way to get to places from Yangon and IWT (Inland Water Transport) passenger ferries still ply the major rivers. Yangon to Mandalay takes 5 days with a change at Pyay (3 days) and the return trip (downriver) takes three days. A luxury ferry (the Delta Queen) recalls the colonial perioid on the Yangon-Pathein route (about 20 hr, US$170/person). The IWT ferry to Pathein takes 15 hours for the overnight trip (US$35/10).

Travel on a Bus in Yangon

• Aung Mingalar Bus Terminal - Pyay Road, North Okkalapa GPS: 16.93061, 96.15826 a 5,000 kyat taxi from the airport; a bit out of the city and beyond the airport; Mingalardon Railway Station circa 1 kilometers west To destinations such as Bagan, Kalaw, Mandalay, Taunggyi for Inle Lake, Bago, Hpa-An, Mwlamyiane, Pyay, Lashio

There is heavy competition on the Mandalay route with air-conditioned fares ranging from 10,500 kyat (Mandalar Minn, E lite) to 18,000 kyat for a 3 seat across VIP bus (E lite). E lite has an all new fleet with several departures early morning and evening. The new highway has dramatically reduced travel durations north with the Mandalay trip taking just over 8 hours with a good bus. Buses to Bagan are poorer value at 15,000 kyat. At the stadium, you can get bus tickets for 13,000 kyat (haggle!). Buses depart around 09:00 and 21:00. There are ticket offices representing all companies outside the stadium opposite the main train station. Many offer ferry services to the Highway Bus Station in a pickup for 1,000 kyat. A taxi will cost around 6,000 kyat.

• Hlaing Thar Yar Bus Terminal - Dagon Ayar Highway Bus Station | GPS: 16.879751, 96.023763 across the Bayintnaung Bridge; 45 min by taxi (6,000 kyat) - Buses for the Irrawaddy delta region (Pathein, Chaungtha Beach, Ngwe Saung Beach). Buses to Kyaiktiyo (Kinpun) leave in the morning (4.5 hr, 6,000 kyat). Buses for Mawlamyine (6 hours via the new bridge) leave in the mornings and late at night (8,000 kyat). Buses to Sittwe and Thandwe (Ngapali Beach) are also available, but the road is bad and the journey long.

Going to the city from the Highway Bus Station is feasible on Bus 43 for 300 kyat. The bus passes in front of the entrance to the station. Just ask the helpful local residents. On the way to the terminal, ask your hotel to write it down in Burmese script and catch the bus from the city hall across from Sule Paya to the downtown for 200 kyat. Better than the horrible transfer timex (see shuttle ticket below) that sometimes make you wait at Aung Minglar for 3 hours. Bus 43 takes about 1h to get there, but give yourself some time to check in and allow for potential delays, leaving 2 hours from Sule Paya before your bus leaves.

Thanks to the new bridge and upgraded road, buses to Pathein take less than 4h and the journey is comfortable. Add 45 min by taxi to get to the Hlaing Thar Yar Bus Terminal though. 6,000 kyat.

Big bus companies serving the main tourist destinations (Aung Mingalar Bus Terminal) have sales offices across from Yangon train station (can also buy "shuttle ticket" to Bus Terminal for 1,000 kyat here).

How to get around in Yangon

GPS: 16.80|96.16

• Aung Zha Bridge - GPS: 16.88045, 96.08709 Take Hlaing River Road across the river Over Hlaing River connect Insein township with Hlaing Thar Yar township

• Bayint Naung Bridge - Dagon Township - Over Hlaing River

• Maha Bandula Bridge - Maha Bandula Road, Dagon - A bridge over Ngamoeyeik Creek

• Nga Moe Yeik Bridge - Upper Pazundaung Road connect with Ayer Wun Main Road GPS: 16.80499, 96.18729 - A bridge over Ngamoeyeik Creek

• Pun Hlaing River Bridge - GPS: 16.85994, 96.03577 Hlaing Thar Yar township
• Thaketa Bridge - Dagon GPS: 16.78508, 96.17905A bridge over Ngamoeyeik Creek

• Thuwunna Bridge - Wai Za Yan Tar Road GPS: 16.81031, 96.19226 - A bridge over Ngamoeyeik Creek

Best way to travel in Yangon by a Taxi

The easiest way to get around the city is by taxi and Yangon is the city where Toyotas come to live out the rest of their days. Plenty of old white Toyota Corolla taxis ply the streets and will pull over if you stick your hand out. Genuine taxis have red licence plates, carry a laminated green slip, and a large-print taxi driver identification card on the dashboard of the car, but all taxis are reliable. Be warned though that around lunchtime and late at night, it may be hard to hail one. Taxis are always available outside the bigger hotels, on Sule Pagoda Road, outside Cafe Aroma, and, during the day, outside the south entrance to the Shwedagon Pagoda. Away from the downtown, for example, near the hotels in Pazundaung Township, you may have to wait a bit before a taxi shows up and it may be easier to ask your hotel to call one for you. If you're travelling in the early hours (for example, to catch a 04:00 train or flight), arrange one with your hotel the previous evening. You will always, at all hours, find a taxi outside the Central Hotel on Bogoyoke Aung San Rd.

It is customary to negotiate prices prior to the trip but, other than tacking on an informal tourist surcharge, you'll very rarely be cheated. If you're not sure how much you should pay, it is safe to assume the driver is charging you an extra 500 kyat because you're a foreigner. Ask for 500 kyat less than the stated price if in doubt. Approximate fares are: downtown to airport, 6,000-8,000 kyat; downtown to Shwedagon Pagoda, 2,500-3,000 kyat; downtown to Pazundaung Township, 2,500 kyat; downtown to Aung San Suu Kyi's house, 3,000 kyat; downtown to Kandawgyi Lake area, 3,000 kyat; downtown to Aung Mingalar Bus Terminal, 5,000-6,000 kyat; downtown to Hlaing Thar Yar Bus Terminal, 4,000 kyat. Expect to pay more, sometimes twice as much, when it rains and late at nights.

Most taxi drivers will be happy to negotiate an hourly (3,000 kyat) or daily (US$20-30) or longer rate. Taxis will take you anywhere and you can, in theory, hail a taxi and negotiate a trip to Pathein or Bago or other destinations at a much lower price than through a travel agency.

Taxi drivers charge a minimum fare of 1,500 kyat even for short trips. It seems like meters are never used, even when present.

Grab (taxi app popular in South-East Asia) can also help you catch taxis at a fair price.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Yangon

Yangon Circular Railway - Route map of the Circular Railway.

• Yangon Circular Railway - 500 kyat—since 2014 same price for tourists and cannot be paid in US$ any more Yangon Circular Railway A loop system that connects the downtown to the suburbs. A fascinating way to get a glimpse of daily life in Yangon. Tickets are available at the stationmaster's office (Platform 7, Yangon Station). The station itself, in British colonial style, is a grand building that combines functional Western styles with Burmese architectural elements (layered ornamental roof). Vendors, vegetable sellers, monks, commuters, all use the train which passes through the many villages that surround Yangon. The scenery changes from urban to rural fairly quickly and villages with ponds, children and cows passing by. At Yangon Central Station and the train departs from either Platform 4 or 7, one going clockwise and the other going anti-clockwise. It is best is to choose whichever arrives first. Do get on the train at fast pace, as the train stops at the station for a short while only and leaves whether or not people have fully boarded the train. The journey takes 3 hr.

By trishaw

Trishaws are scarce in the downtown (and not permitted before 10:00), but more readily available in the surrounding townships. Negotiate fares in advance, but 500-1000 kyat for a short ten min ride, while a little more than a local would pay, is appropriate.

Travel on a Bus in Yangon

Using buses is safe. The only drawback is the lack of understanding. Most of the local residents can't speak English and the signs and bus numbers are written in Burmese. Yangon Bus Service (YBS), operated by Yangon Region Transport Authority (YRTA), started the operations in January 2017. The new bus network has reduced the number of lines from previous some 300 to about 70.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Yangon

A ferry crosses the river to Dallah from the Pansodan Street Jetty.

• Nan Thida Ferry Terminal and Pansodan Ferry Terminal - Pansodan Street and Strand Road corner GPS: 16.76822, 96.16170
• Botahtaung Jetty - Botahtaung Pagoda Road GPS: 16.76707, 96.17198

Halal Friendly Walking Tours in Yangon

Distances in the tourist areas are not great and, provided you take it easy, you can walk almost anywhere. The pavements can be very crowded though, particularly on Anawratha Road, so expect to be constantly bumped into and to have to negotiate your way across vendors selling everything from hot samosas and Curries to screwdrivers, TV remote controls to jeans. Many of the footpaths and pavements have large holes, mismatched pavers, or missing/unstable covers over drains. Walking on the footpath after dark can be treacherous, so either carry a torch or, like most local residents, walk on the edge of the roadway which is normally in a (marginally) better state of repair.

Other

Foreigners on tourist visas are not permitted to drive in Myanmar. Motorbikes and bicycles are not permitted within Yangon (although they are permitted elsewhere in the nation).

What to see in Yangon

Relatively untouched by development compared of other major Southeast Asian cities and the downtown of Yangon is full of historical sights. Yangon is perhaps the best preserved example of a European colonial capital in Southeast Asia.

• Shwedagon Paya - A taxi from downtown costs 2,500-3,000 kyat. Taxis are available for the return trip at the bottom of the main entrance. Can also take bus 204, 100 kyat. Catch this on Shwe Dagon Pagoda Road across from the public toilets just as you cross the overpass. From China Town it's a 30 min walk (2.5 kilometers). Opening Hours: Daily, 06:30-22:00. The pagoda opens at 05:00 but generally Muslims are not allowed in until 06:30 10,000 kyat. Ticket booths are at the top end of the flights of steps on all entrances. If you get in at 05:00 and get out by 06:00 you'll probably escape paying the fee (but risk not being allowed in). Tickets are valid for one day only (not a 24 hour period) and must be retained throughout your visit. A sticker has to be displayed on your clothes to identify you as having a valid ticket, but it is unusable the next day as another colour is used. Bring some sticky tape to help keep the sticker attached to your clothing (especially if it is a hot or wet day, like most days in Myanmar). ATMs available at the platform. Shwedagon Pagoda Rangoon-schwedagon1-feve - The Shwedagon Pagoda or Paya is the most important religious site in Myanmar. The pagoda stands on the top of Singuttara Hill, and, according to legend, that spot has been sacred since the beginning of time, just before our present world was created. At that time, five lotus buds popped up on the hill, each bud signifying the five Buddhas who would appear in the world and guide it to Nirvana. Gautama and the Buddha as we know him, is the fourth of these five (Maitreya and the fifth, will announce the end of the world with his appearance) and, according to the legend, two brothers brought eight hairs of the Buddha to be enshrined in this sacred location, inaugurating the Shwedagon Pagoda. Whatever the truth of the legend, verifiable history records a pagoda at the site since the 6th century CE. Built and rebuilt, gilded and regilded, almost nothing in the pagoda is likely to be old, except whatever is hidden deep inside the stupa. An earthquake (18th century) destroyed the upper half of the pagoda spire and many buildings. Burmese Buddhists are practical people who constantly build and rebuild pagodas for merit.
  The pagoda is an interesting place: multicoloured neon highlighting a galaxy of colours, textures and shapes. It is also a jungle of spires with superior Myanmar woodcarving embellishment playfully mixed and matched with modern building materials such as corrugated roofing. Unlike other religious sites, it has a spiritual as well as a secular feel about it. Children run up and down singing songs, monks sit on the steps chatting, young men cast amorous glances at women, women stand around gossiping, all while others are deep in prayer in front of whatever shrine has significance for them. The Shwedagon captures the essence of both the informal nature as well as the strong ties that signify the relationship that the Burmese have with their Buddhism.

• Guides - Guides, official and unofficial are available for US$5 (extra US$1/1,000 kyat tip). The quality is variable, but most guides are friendly and helpful. The pagoda is vast and complex and, if you can afford the extra cost and the company and practical information on what's going around you is worth the expense.

• Disabled visitors - A road on the south side leads halfway up the Singuttara Hill and an elevator can take you the rest of the way. Alternatively, if not in a wheelchair, head for the Western entrance from where escalators are available all the way to the top. The escalators are free for foreigners (or rather, included in the price of the ticket).

Things to see at the Shwedagon

• Plan - GPS: The pagoda is shaped similar to a Greek cross. There are four entrances at each of the four cardinal directions flanked by gargantuan sculptures of mythical Burmese lions. These entrances open up to the four walkways as the appendages of the cross ascending to the top via flights of steps. At the top is the octagonal intersection of the cross which consists of the stupa at the very centre itself surrounded by shrines that can qualify as temples by themselves and separated from the Stupa by a vast open walkway paved with spic and span shiny marble tiles. The stupa is further surrounded by a string of micro shrines: small celled structures housing the icon of the Buddha himself and interspersed by lion sculptures, and then further inwards, another string of micro stupas surround the stupa superstructure.

• Walkways to The Pagoda - Four covered walkways lead up to the pagoda from the plains surrounding the hills. The east walkway is the most interesting, crowded as it is with vendors selling items for pilgrims (candles, flowers, Gold leaf, stones and other paraphernalia of Burmese Buddhist worship) and souvenirs for tourists (Buddhas, lacquer ware and thanaka). The other walkways are less interesting but the west walkway has escalators and the southern has an elevator. Walking up the Eastern walkway to the top and allowing the beauty of the pagoda it to emerge remains the best way to get up the hill.
  The entrances are striking: there is a pair of mythical and stylized stone lions guarding the doorway framing the grand staircase as if this scene is coming out from a biblical film set. To view clearly these mythical lions, one simply has to examine the Myanmar currency notes where it is featured practically in all denominations. The Great Stupa is visible at dark, multicoloured neon lightings highlight its profile
  Another attraction of this temple in general and the walkways in particular are the 3D murals of the Jataka tales in Myanmarese interpretation showing distinctive Myanmar landscape, temple and toddy palm dotted countryside, country life, architecture, palace and court scenery and pageantry, temple scenes, period costumes, mythological nagas and nats, elephants, lions and dragons. These 3D murals flank the upper part of the walls of all the four entrances.

• The Pagoda Platform - Although similar in concept to Mecca's kaaba, surrounded by a vast space and the pagoda platform where people may make rounds of the stupa, is a religious space without pomp and circumstance and is one of the best places in the world to sit and people watch. Find a comfortable step, or sit on the floor, and look around. Children run up and down, perhaps singing and shouting with abandon. Women cluster in groups gossiping. Couples, young and old stroll up and down. Burgundy robed monks are everywhere. Here and there, at the many shrines that dot the platform and sit around the stupa, people pray, seriously and silently. Bells ring. There is no awe here, only life, religious and secular life. Sit there long enough and someone will stop to chat with you, to ask questions, to exchange information.

• Day Shrines - GPS: Opening Hours: There are eight shrines, one for each day of the week (in the Burmese calendar, Wednesday is divided into two parts), dotted around the eight corners of the stupa (the stupa is octagonal), and most Burmese pray at their day shrine when visiting a pagoda. If you can figure out the day of the week when you were born, light a candle, place some flowers, or pour water over the shrine corresponding to that day. Starting from the south entrance, and going clockwise and the eight planetary posts are: Mercury (Wednesday morning, before noon), Saturn (Saturday), Jupiter (Thursday), Rahu (no planet, Wednesday afternoon), Venus (Friday), Sunday (Sunday), Moon (Monday), Mars (Tuesday). Each shrine also has a beast associated with it and the most interesting one being the Gahlon, a mythical half-bird half-beast said to guard Mount Meru (the shrine for Sunday).

• Statue of Wa Thon Da Ray - GPS: The statue of Wa Thon Da Ray and the guardian angel of the earth, is to the left of the south walkway. Wa Thon Da Ray is said to have saved the Buddha from burning by wrapping her wet hair around the earth. The long tresses are clearly visible in the stone statue that stands in her honour.

• The Arakanese Prayer Pavilion - A little before the west walkway, was a gift of the Rakhaing people of Arakan. The prayer hall itself is ordinary, but the wood carvings on the roof are exquisite, probably the finest in the pagoda complex.

• Maha Ganda Bell - GPS: - Known locally as the Singu Min Bell (after King Singu, who donated it to Shwedagon) and the Maha Ganda bell was cast between 1775 and 1779 and weighs 23 tonnes. Impressed by the size of the bell and the British attempted to take it as war booty after the First Burmese War (1825), but dropped it into the Yangon River instead. The story goes that the British tried everything to get the bell out of the water, but all their technology was of no avail. Giving up and they told the Burmese that they could have it back if they could get it out of the water. The Burmese, with some bamboo rafts, managed to retrieve the bell and it was returned to the pagoda. Pick up a mallet and bang on the bell for luck. Behind the bell, a small pavilion provides excellent views of the stupa (spectacular at night) and a panoramic view of the city.

• Naungdawgyi Pagoda and Sandawdwin Tazaung - Left of the north walkway and the Naungdawgyi or Elder pagoda is supposed to mark the spot where the sacred strands of the Buddha's hair were placed and washed before being enshrined in the stupa. Women are not allowed onto the Elder pagoda platform. Close by is the Sandawdwin Tazaung (Hair Relics Well) which provided the water for the washing. The well is odd because it is fed by the Irrawaddy rather than by ground water and the level of water in this well rises and falls with the tides.

• Dhammazedi Inscription - GPS: A 1485 tablet that relates the story of the Shwedagon in Pali, Mon, and Burmese. One of the few verifiably antique objects in the pagoda complex.

Other religious sites

• Muhammad Jann Mosque - Marmed Jahn Sunni Jamah Mosque| Banyardala Rd/Tamwe Road GPS: 16.80992, 96.17066 Take a bus to stop Tamwe Ah Waing
• E.A. Mumsar Mosque - Kyaik Ka San Road GPS: 16.80200, 96.17363 North one block of Street Francis of Assisi Church
• Ta Chan Pae Mosque - Upper Pansodan Road GPS: 16.78483, 96.16177

• Saint Anthony R.C. Church - Bo Min Yaung Street GPS: 16.78399, 96.16298
• Botataung Paya - Strand Road GPS: 16.76842, 96.17198A few blocks east of The Strand Hotel along the Yangon River The original pagoda was destroyed by allied bombing during the Second World War but the site has a legendary history as long as that of the Shwedagon or the Sule Paya, and it is supposed to house more strands of the Buddha's hair brought to the site by a thousand soldiers (hence the name which means "1000 officers"). The rebuilt stupa is hollow inside, and many relics (though not the hair) are on display. While not spectacular like the Shwedagon and the river-front setting and the hollow stupa make it worth visiting. Entrance fee: 6,000 kyat
• Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda - Reclining Buddha | Shwe Gon Taing Road, Bahan Township. GPS: 16.81168, 96.16389 Bus to 'Chauk Htat Gyi' Opening Hours: 06:00-20:00 US$5 for foreigners A temple that is home to an impressive reclining Buddha that is 65 m long and 6 storeys high.
• Street Francis of Assisi Church - Kyaik Ka San Road GPS: 16.80114, 96.17252 Thida Street Bus Stop
• Judson Church - Pyay Road GPS: 16.8308, 96.1341 Bus to stop Marlar, On western part of the Yangon University
• Holy Trinity Gothic Church - GPS: 16.78015, 96.15413 Bo Gyoke Road, Dagon Township. North of Bogyoke Zay Bus Stop, South of Phaya Lan Train Station, Shwedagon Pagoda Road corner The Anglican cathedral built by the British. It is one of two cathedrals in Yangon, and has a beautiful interior.
• Maha Wizaya Pagoda - Shwe dagon Pagoda Road GPS: 16.79496, 96.15227 Shwedagon Pagoda South Gate Bus Stop
• Fish and Turtle Lake - GPS: 16.79486, 96.15099 West of Maha Wizaya Pagoda
• Meilamu Paya - A large expanse of land on which larger-than-life, colourful statues depicting Buddha's lives are located. Mailamu Paya also showcases a pavilion on a man-made lake, and several chedis.
• Saint Mary's Gothic Church - Bo Aung Kyaw Street GPS: 16.77844, 96.16556 - Opening Hours: The cathedral's exterior is newly renovated, but it's still an ugly eyesore outside, but the superior Myanmarese dexterity of carving is shown in the interior's 14 Stations of the Cross. Images literally pop out of the screen in 3D fashion.
• Sein Yaung Chi Pagoda - GPS: 16.78523, 96.15395
• Siyin Baptist Church - Maha Bandoola Road and 50th Street cnr - GPS: 16.7733, 96.1705
• Sule Paya - Sule Pagoda - Maha Bandula Road GPS: 16.7745, 96.1588 - US$3 Sule Pagoda P1040677 Incongruously serving as a traffic island in the middle of the busiest intersection in central Yangon, Sule Paya is a 46 m octagonal-shaped stupa that, according to the local story, was built 2,000 years ago to house a strand of the Buddha's hair. Whether or not it has a strand of the Buddha's hair and the galleries of the pagoda are an oasis of calm from the chaotic traffic that passes around it all day long. Shoes can be left at counters at any entrance, but carry a plastic bag.

Parks

• Kandawlay Sunni Muslim Cemetery - Bo Min Yaung Street GPS: 16.78252, 96.16636
• Kandawlay Shi'a Muslim Cemetery - Bo Min Yaung Street - GPS: 16.78442, 96.16594 North of Kandawlay Sunni Muslim Cemetery
• Tamwe Muslim Cemetery - Tamwe Road GPS: 16.81050, 96.17017

• Butterfly Lakes - U Ba Han Street GPS: 16.83354, 96.19741 NE of A.K.K. Shopping Centre
• Inya Lake - GPS: 16.8370, 96.1414 - The largest lake in the city. Some parts of Inya Lake's shoreline are accessible on foot, and are known for their gardens. Along Inya Lake's shore is the famous Inya Lake Hotel, now owned by Dusit and Yangon University (in a beautiful park-like setting). Surrounding the lake are villas owned by military leaders.
• Kandawgyi Lake - Formerly Victoria Lakes - Kan Yeik Tha Road, Nat Mauk Street GPS: 16.79538, 96.16636 Northeast of downtown - 300 kyat (+ feasible 500 kyat camera fee, + feasible 1,000 kyat video camera fee) Recently renovated park that makes for a nice stroll. Lots of small restaurants, food stalls and a playgarden inside. The lake is best known for its karaweik (at its southeastern tip), a replica of a traditional Burmese royal boat. There is also a board walk around the south edge of the lake, affording a better view than that from the gardens. At its northwestern tip is Bogyoke Aung San Park, which is on Natmauk Rd. Main entrance is from the southeast corner. Foreign Muslims pay 300 kyat, and there's a sign indicating there's also a 500 kyat camera charge and a 1,000 kyat video camera fee, but those don't seem to be enforced. Not all parts of the park are accesible from the southeast entrance, so you might have to walk around a bit on the street as well to see the park completely.
• Kandawgyi Nature Park - Kan Yeik Tha Road GPS: 16.79497, 96.17050 - 300 kyat This is a peninsula that provides good views around the lake and is the access to the Karaweik. There are restaurants (some cheap, some expensive) dotted around the lakefront and an amphitheatre that often has free concerts. Very popular with local residents on Friday and Saturday nights.
• Kan Taw Mingalar Garden - GPS: 16.79431, 96.14930 Right south of Shwedagon Complex
• Maha Bandula Park - Maha Bandula Park Street GPS: 16.773022, 96.159519 In the cantonment, on eastside of its is the Vandoola Park Bus Terminus - Maha Bandula Park Myanmar-Yangon-Independence Monument in Mahabandoola park Known for its rose gardens. Inside the park is the Independence Monument, built to signify Myanmar's independence. The park offers a great view of the City Hall and colonial buildings.
• Martyrs' Mausoleum - GPS: 16.8025, 96.1475 - Martyrs' Mausoleum Martyrs' Mausoleum AA memorial built to honour Aung San and six cabinet members who were assassinated. The mausoleum is on a hill, and is adjacent to Shwedagon Paya. It offers a beautiful panoramic view of Yangon.
• People's Park - Pyay Road, Dhammazedi Road, Ahlon Road, U Wisara Road GPS: 16.79717, 96.14249 West of Shwedagon Pagoda Opening Hours: 07:00-19:00 Occupies 130 acres, between parliament and Shwedagon Paya and known for its large concrete water fountain. Inside the park is a museum. There are a lot of decrepit statues and relics (like ships and aircraft) as well as sterile squares in the Stalinist model, all of which gives an interesting insight to the government. Entrance fee for foreigners.
• Theingottara Park - U Wisara Road GPS: 16.80051, 96.14683 East of People's Park
• War Memorial Cemetery - Kyun Taw Road GPS: 16.81127, 96.13323
• Zoological Gardens - Bo Min Kaung Street GPS: 16.7924, 96.1596 Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 Entry fee is 1,000 kyat for each person Opened by the British since the 1906s. there are 145 species of 1203 land animals. During public holidays and the Elephant Circus is performed for attractions.

Miscellaneous

• Aung San Suu Kyi's House - 54 University Ave GPS: 16.82484, 96.14664 The house is guarded by a high wall, and visitors are not allowed to enter. The most you can hope to do is to take a picture of the gate. Approximate taxi fares from the city is 3,000 kyat.

• Bogyoke Aung San Museum - 25 Bo Gyoke Museum Lane GPS: 16.803839, 96.163389 Natmauk Road (near the German embassy) ☎ +95 1 345 651 | Opening Hours: 09:30-16:30; Monday off US$3 Bogyoke Aung San Museum Bogyoke Aung San Museum - This is the house where Aung San lived with his wife and three children until his assassination. The house is still in original condition ans houses a museum with many interesting items on display, e.g., Aung San's car, his library and his suits. Outside is the pond where his son, Aung San Lin, drowned. The accident was one of the reasons why the family moved.

• Bahadur Shah Zafar Grave - Zi Wa Ka Street GPS: 16.79001, 96.15030 ☎ Free The grave of the last of the Mughal emperors in India, as well as the last ruler of the Timurid Dynasty. After the Indian rebellion of 1857, he was exiled to Rangoon together with his wife, Zeenat Mahal, and some of the remaining members of the family. Bahadur Shah died in Nov 1862. Today you can see his tomb, and if you are lucky, a guide may be there to give you a lot of information about this Sufi saint. There is no entrance fee, but you can give donations to local Sufis.

• Chinatown and Little India - GPS: 16.7747, 96.1502 - Home to the descendants of migrants who came from China and India during the colonial era. You can still see reminders of that legacy, with Chinese clan temples, as well as Hindu temples, still to be found in these neighborhoods, as well as ethnic food.

• Central Bank of Myanmar - No. 1 Industrial Road GPS: 16.82544, 96.16064
• Centrepoint Towers - Sule Pagoda Road GPS: 16.77251, 96.15828 West from Maha Bandoola Garden

• City Hall - Maha Bandula Road GPS: 16.77510, 96.15964 - Yangon City Hall Yangon City Hall The seat of the city's administrative body, Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC). Construction began in 1926 and ended in 1936. The city hall has been the focal point of major political demonstrations and the site of several bombings, including one in 2000, 2008 and 2009.

• Drug Elimination Museum - Kyun Taw Road GPS: 16.81573, 96.13144 Near to Hanthawaddy Circle ☎ +95 1 505016, +95 1 505261 - foreigner: 4,000 kyat, burmese national: 100 kyat A huge four-storey building dedicated to fighting narcotics (mainly opium), displaying the effects of drug use and efforts finding alternative crops. The exhibits are quite outdated and dusty. The main reason for a foreigner to visit is to experience a bizarre remnant of the previous regime. Be prepared that you may be the only visitor at the, but there are plenty of staff. Camera fee for foreigners US$5.

• High Court Building - Pansodan Street GPS: 16.773133, 96.160928 Next to Maha Bandula Park 89-133 - High Court Building (Yangon) High Court, Yangon, Myanmar A Until 2006 and the Supreme Court of Myanmar was located at this complex. The building is listed on the Yangon City Heritage List.

• Martyrs Mausoleum - GPS: 16.80258, 96.14772 Near the south gate of Shwedagon Contains the tombs of Queen Suphayalat, wife of Burma’s last king; nationalist and writer Thakin Kodaw Hmaing; former UN Secretary-General U Thant; and Aung San Suu Kyi’s mother, Khin Kyi. In 1983 and the structure was bombed by North Korean agents attempting to assassinate the visiting South Korean president. He escaped, but 21 others were killed. The structure was completely rebuilt, and is now much less grand than the original.

• Ministers' Building - The Secretariat - Maha Bandoola Road GPS: 16.77539, 96.16570 Bogalay Zay Bus Stop - Ministers' Building Secretariat Building, Yangon It was the home and administrative seat of British Myanmar. In February 2012, 7 local companies and 3 foreign companies submitted a proposal to the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC) to convert the Ministers' Building into a hotel and museum.

• U Thant Museum

Inya Road GPS: 16.8173, 96.1382 Tha Thone Street corner

• National Museum - 26 Pyay Road GPS: 16.78877, 96.14248 In front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Opening Hours: 10:00-15:00, closed M, Tu, and holidays Displays many Burmese historical artifacts, including regalia of the last Konbaung Dynasty. This museum has one of the better quality collections in South East Asia, containing the best of Burma's artistic legacy and superior craftsmanship. The architecture of the museum is a pathetic and crude interpretation of modern architecture. The exhibitions have been improved during 2016 and most exhibits have signs in both Burmese and English. Some rooms are dimly lit. Photography is prohibited. Do not buy books in the museum shop. Buy them at Innwa Bookstore with its varied selections, and other stores along Pansodan Rd. A book that costs US$38 in the museum costs only US$22 at Innwa.

• Strand Hotel - 92 Strand Road GPS: 16.7696, 96.1626 - Strand Hotel - The oldest and most famous hotel in Myanmar, built by the Sarkies brothers in 1901. It is a national landmark and was renovated in the 1990s after years of neglect.

• Yangon Region Parliament - Congress Building | Pyay Road - GPS: 16.79482, 96.13758 West of People's park Opening Hours:
• Thaketa Crocodile Farm - Myamarlar Street GPS: 16.8098, 96.2026 East one kilometers from Thuwunna Bridge
• Tatmadaw Exhibition Hall - U Wisara Road GPS: 16.7844, 96.1508 Opposite the Military History Museum, Phaya Lan Train Station a half kilometers away

What to do in Yangon

• Bogyoke Aung San Stadium - Zoological Garden Road GPS: 16.78379, 96.16064 Take Bus to Stop York Lan. - North of Yangon Central Railway Station
• Dallah Ferry - Pansodan Road Jetty across from the Strand Hotel - 4,000 kyat roundtrip fare for foreigners. - To Dallah, a small village across the river from Yangon, an interesting ferry ride. The ride is brief, but filled with all the craziness of a Burmese ferry: you can buy freshly sliced watermelon, cheroots, cigarettes, tea, all kinds of interesting-looking food, various knick-knacks from the many vendors who pack the ferry. The ferry ride seems more like a floating market than a means of transportation. Combine the ride with a trip to Twante for a half- or full-day trip. There is a pagoda at Dallah worth a visit, but otherwise the village is not really a destination.

• Ferris Wheel - Kabar Aye Pagoda Road GPS: 16.83232, 96.15394 Inya Lakeshore eastside
• Kokkine Swimming Club - Kokkaing Swimming Club Lane GPS: 16.81839, 96.16076 Take bus to stop 'Har Mit Tic'
• Kyaikkasan Grounds - South Race Course Road GPS: 16.82022, 96.16968 Near to National Library A sportfield.

• Market Tour and Cooking Demonstration - Governor’s Residence Hotel - US$60 for a half-day tour including lunch (US$40 excluding lunch), excluding drinks The cooking demonstration takes place upstairs in the hotel's Mindon Lounge where you will learn to prepare a traditional Burmese salad.

• National Swimming Pool - U Wisara Road GPS: 16.78368, 96.15168

• National Theatre - Myoma Kyaung Street GPS: 16.78378, 96.14931
• Thamada Cinema - Alan Pya Pagoda Street GPS: 16.78228, 96.15879 Take Bus to Stop York Lan
• Thein Byu Sport Ground - Kan Yeik Tha Road GPS: 16.79183, 96.16822 Take a Bus to Stop Masar Set

• Thuwana National Stadium - Thuwunna Indoor Stadium | | - Wai Za Yan Tar Road GPS: 16.82131, 96.18679 Hnin Si Gone Railway Station Northeast ~700m

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Yangon

Valuable and expensive woodcraft, gemstones, food ingredient, and souvenirs. Shopping is fun in Yangon for variety of things being available, unlike other crowded countries, foreigners can visit on certain times view things without distraction. Bargaining is expected, although tourists will be charged higher prices. Street vendors in the centre are not allowed to open their shops until 18:00, by government mandate.

• A.K.K. Shopping Centre - Lay Daungkan Road GPS 16.82931, 96.19168 Thin Gan Gyun Station E0.7km
• Bespoke Clothing - Although not as well known as Bangkok or Hong Kong, Yangon is an excellent place to have a shirt tailored. One can obtain a shirt with a traditional Burmese collar (mandarin collar) made for around US$6. 4-5 days should be sufficient for a shirt to be made.

• Bogyoke Aung San Market - Scotts Market | GPS: 16.78044, 96.15570 An excellent source for Burmese handicrafts, such as wood carvings or lacquerware. However some lacquerware are not made in the nation but are sold in high prices.

• Capital Hypermarket - Min Nandar Road GPS: 16.80281, 96.19579 East of Nga Moe Yeik Bridge - Capital Hypermarket is a huge supermarket to shop freely with confidence for fresh vegetables, Meat and rare ingredients. The top and only floor of the building has rare electronics, clothes for both adults and child with affordable prices, leather made clothes, shoes and bags. You can also find affordable Blu-ray Discs at the top floor near the televisions. The ground floor is full of restaurants, and on some days with discounts on furniture. Has an artist gallery on the second floor.

• Chinatown - GPS: Opening Hours: 15:00-21:00 A wide selection of street vendors. Colonial coins, Chinese calendars, Chinese temples, tea shops, several markets and small running businesses.

• Junction Plaza Shopping Centre - Kyun Taw Road GPS: 16.81747, 96.13095 Bus to stop Seik Pyo Yay The major tourist attraction is the cinema, crafty stationery with high-prices and various food restaurants which is on the top floor.

• Kyee Myint Dine Night Market - Zay Gyi Road/Mani May Kha Lar Street - GPS: 16.80960, 96.12393 Bus to stop Night Market/Nya Zay Opening Hours:
• Kyauk Myaung Market - Kyatk Ka San Road GPS: 16.80355, 96.17502 Kyauk Myaung Zay Bus Stop |
• Market Place by Citymart - Dhama Zedi Road GPS: 16.8081, 96.1500 Near to the Singapore Embassy

Good for food shopping.

• Mingalar Zay - Banyardala Road GPS: 16.79282, 96.17322 Take a bus to stop Mingalar Zay Market Hall?

Myanmar-Yangon-Bogyoke market - Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scotts Market)

• Shwedagon Paya - The entrance hallway offers many shops that sells, fresh and affordable coconuts, handmade bags, wooden and metal chests, paper owl charms, carved wood statues, beautiful fans, charming accessories with affordable price made from jade, and Buddha statues ranging from different sizes.

• Super One Supermarket - Lay Daungkan Road GPS: 16.82112, 96.17361 Lay Daungkan Road, near I.L.B.C school. Opening Hours: 09:00-21:00 - Super One is a department with many different items and foods by different brands from which you may not be able to find even in the biggest supermarket of Yangon.

• Junction City, One of the famous shopping center in downtown area.

Money Matters in Yangon

Rates at the airport are almost as competitive as in the city, so change your money there or withdraw cash from an ATM. Do not change at the first bank you see inside the security area. Banks beyond security offer better rates.

If you need to change money outside business hours, especially on holidays and Sundays, only banks in the airport are open. Exchange rates are poorer at guesthouses and money changers.

Every full moon day is a public holiday. Banks, money changers, some Chinese shops and all government offices will be closed.

There are more than 500 ATMs in Yangon however not all may work. It may take awhile to find one working. The withdrawal limit is typically 300,000 kyat plus a processing fee of 5,000 kyat.

When bringing in US dollars and the best exchange rates are for US$100 and US$50 notes. Smaller notes (US$1, US$5 and US$10) are indispensable to pay for admissions and transportation, which are sometimes charged in US dollars only. Bring notes in crisp condition as cashiers are wary of even the slightest blemishes. Check any US$ notes you are given in change, for the same reason. If you are given any damaged notes, nobody will accept it.

Halal Restaurants in Yangon

Yangon has seen an explosion of restaurants in the last ten years and a wide selection of international cuisines is available: Italian, Japanese, (Thai) and Korean. Local cuisine reflects the multi-ethnic nature of the city and the nation. Along with Bamar food and there are a large number of Indian and Chinese restaurants as well as a few places specializing in Shan food. Fast food restaurants (usually with table service) serving Burgers and Pizzas, and a few cafes complete the scene. Biryani, a Rice and Meat dish with roots in the Mughal Empire, is a speciality and there are many biryani restaurants (dan-PAO-sain in Burmese) in the downtown, especially along Anawratha Rd. The three main competing restaurant chains (all halal, but Vegetarian biryani is usually available) are Yuzana, KSS (Kyet Shar Soon), and Nilar.

Street Food: Anawratha Road and Mahabandoola Road are dotted with food stalls, but Yangon street ambiance is not conducive to al fresco eating. Betel-nut spitting pedestrians do not add to the ambience either. Myanmar street food is mostly deep fried, and often served in a puddle of oil. Dishes are washed at the roadside "dunk" style, without soap and without running water. The green tea is free but before drinking from the cups pour some tea, swill it, empty it on the street and then pour yourself the cup of tea. Alternatively, use the provided tissue at the table as the local residents do. There are many buffet-style street stalls where you point at the food to order.

• Golden City Chetti | GPS: Locations throughout Yangon - Offers Indian food at very reasonable prices and free top-ups on the veg thali.

• Kyet Shar Soon Biriani | GPS: In Mingalar Taung Nyunt, Pabedan, and Kyauktada Townships 700 kyat Established in 1947, offers a dish of halal Burmese-accented biryani.

• New Delhi | GPS: between Shwe Bontha and 28th on Anawratha Road Better and affordableer than Golden City. Small Indian place, well known to the local residents and tourists. Great taste and value.

• Nilar Biryani - 216 Anawratha Road ☎ +95 1253131 | Opening Hours: Daily 08:00-20:00A venerable, old Biryani restaurant serving Chicken, mutton and vegetable biryani. Fast, delicious and affordable.

Street vendors sell samosas, onion balls, and other Indian Snacks around Anawratha Street between Sule Paya Road and Shwe Bontha Street in central Yangon for under 200 kyat.

• Sabai Sabai | Dhammazedi Road GPS: The best (Thai) restaurant in town. Expect to pay about 7,000 kyat/person for drinks, soup, starter, and main. Most main dishes are around 4,000 kyat. This clean and atmospheric place is a favourite among expats and business people. Closed between lunch and dinner time (15:00-17:00). Closes at 21:00. Most taxi drivers know of the place. It's in an area with plenty of other mid-range restaurants.

• Strand Hotel - 92 Strand Road - US$18 Yangon's luxury colonial hotel, founded by the legendary Sarkies brothers in 1901, who also founded Penang's Eastern and Oriental Hotel and Singapore's Raffles Hotel. An interesting experience is to have an elegant high tea. Served in the restaurant of one of the classic examples of the colonial hotel in Southeast Asia. One can choose from either Burmese or English afternoon tea. The English variety includes delicate sandwiches, scones, tiny cakes, and tarts, while the Burmese afternoon tea has small spring rolls and samosas, and traditional Burmese sweets.

Muslim Friendly hotels in Yangon

Accommodation in Yangon is comparatively much more expensive than the likes of Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City or Bali.

Rooms are abundant except at the height of the tourist season (Dec-Jan), and then only in the popular backpacker hotels. Reservations are almost never necessary. Tourists can still pay in US$ (bring only newer US$ banknotes in good condition), but the kyat is more commonly used now. Credit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels.

Budget hotels are mostly away from downtown. The upside is that the hotels are quieter and the downtown can be quite noisy, and you get a little more room for your money. You'll need a taxi to get to the main sight and the Shwedagon Pagoda anyway. The downside is that most restaurants are in the downtown, a long walk or taxi ride away and choices outside the centre are limited, usually with the only choice being a restaurant attached to the hotel with indifferent cuisine and which may be closed if business is slow. Pazundaung and Botataung Townships seem to have the highest concentration of hotels. Some rooms and the cheaper ones, in many hotels have no windows. There are a few budget central hotels but, except for a couple, are quite shabby.

Mid-priced hotels are scattered about the city, with one set concentrated in the few blocks around Sule Pagoda and a second set just north of the Shwedagon Pagoda. Luxury hotels are concentrated around Kandawgyi Lake or downtown.

Rates for hotels are usually quoted as single/double. The room is usually the same but you pay a little extra, about US$5-10, if two people share the room. Breakfast is almost always included and the quality and variety increases with the cost of the hotel. In a budget hotel, expect a banana, an egg, some bread and coffee made from "coffee mix" (a pre-packaged mix of coffee powder, milk powder and lots of sugar).

An important factor in choosing a hotel is electricity. Electricity supply is subject to frequent breaks anywhere in the city. Mid-priced hotels usually have their own generators while hotels either do not or have a limited supply: lights will work till 23:00, fans may or may not work, air conditioning never does even if fitted in the room unless state-supplied electricity is available. Ask when you book what the electricity situation is and, if there is no generator, what you can expect on the days that you are there.

• Alfa Hotel | 41 Nawaday Street GPS: Between the Shwedagon Pagoda and downtown US$75-100 Building is dated, but the staff are helpful and the breakfast is adequate. Wi-Fi reasonably fast. A pleasant bubble tea shop and other small shops are just east on Nawaday St.

• Central Hotel | 335-357 Bogyoke Aung San Road GPS: Next to Trader's Hotel ☎ +95 1 241 001 +95 1 248 003 US$30-35 - This well-located hotel provides near-luxury facilities at mid-range prices. Rooms are clean and big (don't expect a view) with satellite TV and air conditioning. The rooms are spacious, but a little old. The hotel has room service and a popular coffee shop and Chinese restaurant. 24 hour electricity. This hotel is owned by the government (Yangon City) and an army colonel.

• City Star Hotel | 169/171 Mahabandoola Garden Street GPS: Behind City Hall, near Sule Pagoda ☎ +95 370920 +95 1 381128 Opening Hours: US$27 single, US$32 double with breakfast - Clean, well kept, and comfortable rooms with TV, Minibar with alcohol removed, free Coffee. 24 hour electricity.
• Classique Inn | 53 (B) Shwe Taung Kyar Street (Golden Valley Rd), Bahan Township ☎ +95 1 525557 +95 1 503968 US$25-80 - A small boutique hotel with well-furnished rooms in the quiet area north of the Shwedagon Pagoda. In the embassy neighborhood (about 2 kilometers from Shwe Dagon Pagoda) just a few doors down from Bahrain embassy. It is a cute, small, quiet hotel made with teak and decorated with traditional Burmese lacquer ware. Only a couple of minutes away lies Bogalay Mohenga shop which sells great mohinga (perfect for breakfast).
• Clover Hotel - 7A, Wingabar Road, Bahan Township GPS: 16.80271, 96.15923 Opposite the Japanese Embassy ☎ +95 9 73177781, +95 9 73177782, +95 9 73177783, +95 9 73177784 - US$30-75 With over 40 rooms and the hotel is equipped with basic amenities like hot water, 24 hour electricity and air conditioning. Wifi is reasonably fast. It is free in reception or $8 for a 1GB card which works in the rooms. The cafe on the rooftop has a great view of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

• East Hotel | 234-240 (1) Quarter Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauktada Township Opposite Trader's Hotel, 2-3 blocks behind Sakura Tower ☎ +95 9 73135311, +95 9 73135299 +95 1 371358 US$65 with breakfast - Rooms are clean, air-conditioned, with hot and cold shower. Bath has no door, only a shower curtain and a wall to block off the toilet area. Free Wi-Fi and 24 hours electricity. The staff are friendly and speak English.

• May Shan Hotel - formerly Guesthouse | 115-117 Sule Pagoda Road ☎+95 1 252986 +95 1 252 968 US$15-25 - Clean, well-kept, but small rooms right outside the Sule Pagoda. Has its own generator, and the staff are friendly. All rooms have air-con, satellite TV, bath attached with hot and cold shower. A bit run-down.

• New Aye Yar Hotel - 170-175 Bo Aung Kyaw St, Botataung Township GPS: Two blocks west and one block south from Sule Pagoda ☎ +95 1 256938 +95 1 256576 Check-in: 24 hours / Check-out: 12:00 (flexible) US$30-35 Five min walk from Sule Pagoda and around the junction from the Strand, this well-located hotel caters to business travellers. A small, but good restaurant is on the premises and the hotel is centrally air-conditioned, and all rooms have satellite TV. (good, but inexperienced service is second to none)

• Panda Hotel | 205 Min Ye Kyaw Swa Road, Lanmadaw Township GPS: 16.78215, 96.13909 Corner of Wadan Street ☎ +95 1 212850, +95 1 229360 +95 1 212854 US$25-38 - Comfortable, if faceless, modern business hotel located at the edge of the downtown. You will need a taxi to get around (easily available in front of the hotel). Wi-Fi available in the lobby. Offers great views of the city, especially from the upper floors. All rooms have satellite TV, air conditioning and attached baths is very popular.

• Thamada Hotel | 5 Alan Pya Phaya (Signal Pagoda) Road GPS: 16.78268, 96.15870Across from the Park Royal and the train station ☎ +95 1 243639 US$25-35 - Clean and central, but basic. The first international hotel in Yangon, and good value for money.
• Winner Inn | 42 Than Lwin Road, Bahan Township GPS: Corner of Inya Road ☎ +95 1 535205 +95 1 524196 US$30-55 Close to the Shwedagon Pagoda, a quiet hotel favoured by German tourists. All rooms with attached bath, air-conditioning and satellite TV. Restaurant on the premises but, if it is not open, it is a bit of a walk to the nearest restaurants near the Savoy. Free Wi-Fi.

• The Strand - 92 Strand Road GPS: 16.7696, 96.1626 US$450+ Strand Hotel StrandHotel2009 - A deluxe colonial hotel built by the Sarkies Brothers in 1901. Meticulously restored and the Strand has huge airy rooms with vintage fittings, teak flooring, and furniture, a cafe and café.

• The Governor's Residence | 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township GPS: 16.78817, 96.13911 ☎ +95 1 229860 +95 1 228260 US$250-300 - A renovated teak mansion, formerly a guesthouse for Kachin State officials, is in one of Yangon's most exclusive neighbourhoods. The hotel has 48 rooms and pleasant gardens. Swimming swimmingpool and several excellent restaurants on the premises. Close to Shwedagon Pagoda, and one can easily walk to downtown.

• Inya Lake Hotel - 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road GPS: 16.84527, 96.15016 On the shore of Inya Lake, a 30-minutes drive from the downtown, depending on traffic. Given as a gift to Myanmar by Nikita Khruschev in 1958 this hotel has plenty of Soviet-inspired style. Known locally for their Sunday brunches and nice pool. Very quiet, next to SOS Clinic.

• Parkroyal Yangon - 33 Alan Pha Phaya Road, Dagon Township, Yangon GPS: 16.78330, 96.15852 ☎ +95 1 250 388 +95 1 252 478 A good quality hotel with 272 rooms. La Brasserie Restaurant, Phoenix Court Chinese Restaurant, Shiki-Tei Japanese Restaurant, and the Lobby Bar. The well-known disco Music Club is in the basement.

• Kangyavi Palace - Kan Yeik Tha Road GPS: 16.79480, 96.16205 Lakeside ☎ +95 1 249 255
• Savoy Hotel | 129 Dhammazedi Road GPS: 16.806449, 96.145093 ☎ +95 1 526289, +95 1 526298, +95 1 526305 US$75-150 Housed in an old colonial building with period furniture and decorations and the Savoy is one of the most charming hotels in Yangon. A short walk to the Shwedagon Pagoda, a swimming swimmingpool and an excellent restaurant. Lower than quoted rates are often available on the Internet.

• Sedona Hotel - Kaba Aye Pagoda Road GPS: 16.829454, 96.155511 Near Inya Lake - From US$60 Burmese architecture. 366 rooms.

• Summit Parkview Hotel - 350 Ahlone Road GPS: 16.79343, 96.14342 ☎ +95 1 211888, +95 1 211966 Fax +95 1 227995 - Just west of Shwedagon Pagoda and with excellent views of that pagoda. Good restaurant.

• Traders Hotel | 223 Sule Pagoda Road GPS: 16.77899, 96.15849 At the intersection of Sule Pagoda Road and Bogyoke Aung San Road US$100+ - The original upscale business hotel in Yangon. Swimming pool, all services and an excellent restaurant. The location is hard to beat.

• Yuzana Garden Hotel - 44, Signal Pagoda Road, Mingalartaungnyunt Township GPS: 16.784805, 96.157855 ☎ +95 1 248944 +95 1 240074 US$100-180 37 rooms in a renovated colonial building.

• Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon - Nikko Royal Lake Yangon | 40 Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township GPS: 16.80030, 96.16866 On North East side of Kandawgyi lake ☎ +95 1 544 500 - Starting from $123 A 10-storey hotel with 310 rooms, swimmingpool and free wifi. Has six restaurants, a beach-styled swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and event venues

Telecommunications in Yangon

• National Library - Lay Daungkan Road GPS: 16.81948, 96.17342 East of the Kyaikkasan Grounds, Tamwe Railway Station E 0.6km

Internet cafes

Internet cafes have proliferated in recent years and Yangon has quite a few that provide access at a reasonable speed for a reasonable price. The government no longer blocks any web sites, but connections are not 100% reliable. Many hotels provide Internet services, but these tend to be more expensive than the public cafes. The cheapest rate is around 400 kyat per hour. There are plenty of places so shop around and save some cash.

• Cyber Cafe II | GPS: Sule Pagoda Road across from Traders Hotel - 400 kyat/h One of the best Internet providers in Myanmar. Reasonably fast access.

• Tokyo Donuts - Anawratha Road GPS: Between Sule Pagoda Road and Phayre St, on the south side of the road 09:00-21:00 400 kyat/h A donut shop with a dozen terminals inside. Accessible USB ports and seems popular with local residents. Free Wi-Fi.

Post Office

• GPO - Strand Road GPS: 16.76994, 96.16400 Next to U.K. embassy

Photography & Video

• Thein Win / Modern Camera shop - 179, 33rd St, middle block GPS: from the junction with Anawratha Road, 6th shop on the left hand side walking south ☎ +95 9-250 650 364 Great Muslim Friendly place to repair all sorts of cameras. New and second-hand accessories and cameras for both analog and digital. The owner is an experienced and passionate photographer, who speaks good English. Can also recommend places for other photography-related needs.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Yangon

Despite widespread poverty, Yangon is one of the safest big cities in the world. Most people, including single Muslimas, will not have any problems roaming the streets alone at night, and carrying large amounts of cash rarely poses a problem. Crimes against foreigners are taken very seriously by the military government and punishment is often disproportionately severe. This, in addition to the strong Buddhist culture in the population, means that Yangon's crime rate is lower than the likes of Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Violent crime is especially rare. However, little crime does not mean no crime, and there have been isolated incidents involving tourists, so it is best to take normal big city precautions like avoiding lonely areas at night and always being aware of your valuables. As with everywhere else in the world and there is no substitute for common sense.

Scams in Yangon

Be wary of over-friendly local residents who offer to take you around or to places they are going. They may turn out to be genuine tour guides. And maybe not. It is easy to find a tour guide as they will approach you at tourist attractions. A tour of Yangon for half a day costs around US$5-10 while a full day trip or half a day trip to another city such as Thanlyin from Yangon costs around US$10-15.

The most common crime in Yangon is being short-changed by a money changer, so count your kyat carefully when you exchange money. Opt to exchange at the Bogyoke Market, where the rates may be slightly worse, but the jewellery shop owners won't rip you off. Do not fall for the "bad serial number" excuse, it's another attempt to con you (however, US dollars with "CB" serial numbers may be fakes). Be especially careful with the money changer around Sule Paya. They count the money in front of you, but will trick you while doing that (they have fast hands.) People are strongly advised not to change money there.

There are a multitude of fake monks along the street near Sule-Shangri La Hotel (formally Traders) and Bogyoke Market. Authentic monks do not hang around tourist attractions soliciting donations.

Medical Issues in Yangon

• Yangon can be extremely hot with intense sun. Shield yourself from the sun and heat by using an umbrella, drinking plenty of water, and staying inside during the noon hours.
• Yangon's tap water is not potable. Always buy bottled water or refill bottles at purified water jars. Temples supply free purified water (large steel tanks), and most shop keepers are happy to let you top up at their water jugs.
• Mosquitoes carry dengue and malaria. Insist on using a mosquito net at night if it is available. Make sure there are no holes or gaps left in the net. Your second line of defense is mosquito coils and mosquito repellent.
• Street food is almost universally unsafe and can be a source of everything from diarrhoea to typhoid and parasites. Stick to indoor restaurants and tea shops with non-dirt floors.
• Street dogs are occasionally rabid: Pass them with caution, and be aware that can form aggressive packs.
• There are open sewers all over Yangon. Be extremely wary during rainy season when many flood. You could accidentally find yourself standing chest deep in a sewer. The typical layout is shop-sewer ditch-pavement-street-pavement-sewer ditch-shop. Some sections of sewer are covered for walking ease, others are not. During rainy season, be cautious of any cuts you may have on your feet as the flooded water in the streets is contaminated and can lead to infections.
• Drivers are reckless. If your taxi driver is behaving recklessly tell them to slow down. Be insistent; traffic deaths are extremely common.
• Many drugs in pharmacies are fake. Golden Bell Pharmacy listed below is reputable.

Healthcare

Medical care is limited, but is most expedient at private medical clinics. Most hotels and hotels will be able to provide you with the address of a private doctor with experience in treating foreigners. Be sure to take the proper vaccinations before you leave for your trip. Carry a small first-aid kit with you containing at least painkillers, band-aid, ORS and a loperamide-like medicine. Anti-malarial pills and DEET are recommended. For more serious medical issues, you will probably need to travel to Bangkok or Singapore for treatment.

• SOS Clinic - Inya Lake Hotel complex Tell the taxi driver to take you to the Inya Lake Hotel - Charges in US$, accepts cards. Price to see a doctor and get medicine for food poisoning 70$ Western trained doctors can provide you urgent care. Faster than going to Bangkok.

• Pun Hlaing Clinic - 4th Floor, 380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, FMI Centre, Pabedan, Yangon GPS: Tell the taxi driver "FMI Center Bo-joe Len" FMI Centre, next to Bogyoke market. - Charges in Kyat Good quality local doctors available in a range of specialities. Many of them studied or trainingd in the West.

• Golden Bell Pharmacy | NO.006 Yuzana Tower, Shwe Gone Dine Tell the taxi driver Yuzana Tower The only Pharmacy SOS Clinic trusts to sell genuine medicine.

• Yangon General Hospital - Bogyoke Aung San Road GPS: 16.77887, 96.14897 ☎ +95 1256112 - Government hospitals are said to be unreliable and sometimes require bribes. Do not seek medical care here unless it is an emergency. It is said to be unsanitary and inefficient. However, clearly standards differ between Myanmar and Western Countries.

Cope

Embassies & Consulates in Yangon

In the event of an emergency, always take the precaution of registering at your embassy.

{{flag|Bangladesh]] Bangladesh, 11B Thanlwin Rd.

{{flag|Cambodia]] Cambodia, 25 New University Ave Rd.

{{flag|China]] China, 1, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, is a clearly visible building with red paint.

{{flag|India]] India - 545-547 Merchant Street GPS: 16.77139, 96.16126 Two blocks east from Maha Bandoola Garden

{{flag|Indonesia]] Indonesia, 100 Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Rd.

{{flag|Palestine]] Palestine - 15 Kabaung Road GPS: 16.83911, 96.13358 West of Inya Lake. Nearby: Ta Dar Phyu Bus Stop

{{flag|Laos]] Laos, A1 Diplomatic Quarters, Taw Win St.

{{flag|Malaysia]] Malaysia, 82 Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Rd.

{{flag|Nepal]] Nepal, 16 Natmauk Rd.

{{flag|Pakistan]] Pakistan, 4A Pyay Rd.

{{flag|Philippines]] Philippines, 50 Sayasan St.

{{flag|Russia]] Russia, 38 Sagawa Road {{flag|Singapore]] Singapore - 238 Dharma Zedi Street GPS: 16.80685, 96.15363 East of Savoy Hotel

{{flag|Sri Lanka]] Sri Lanka, 34 Taw Win St.

{{flag|Thailand]] Thailand, 94 Pyay St.

{{flag|Vietnam]] Vietnam, 72 Thanlwin Rd.

Travel Next from Yangon

Taukkyan - Allied War Cemetery and Memorial, Taukkyan

• Yangon International Airport - Taxi to airport is 7,000 kyat per head including baggage. Your hotel manager may well drive you to the airport. There is a beautiful 3-storey mural, a nice composition of Burmese countryside and lifestyle in the style of idyllic romanticism worth taking souvenir photo of as you go to immigration on the second floor departure area.
• Bago (Myanmar)|Bago (Pegu) - an important city with pagodas and monasteries 60 kilometers north of Yangon. An easy day trip.
• Mandalay - overnight buses, and expensive government trains, leave for Mandalay daily. Bus tickets can be booked at the number of travel agents just north of Yangon train station.
• Mawlamyine - A pleasant seaside city with a few daytrip possibilities. 9 hours express train runs there each morning about 06:15 (and an 11 hours slow train at 07:00). Ordinary tickets (with no seat reservations) cost foreigners US$5, while upper class tickets are US$14. You get your own seat and it's slightly less crowded, but there isn't much difference between classes.
• Pathein (Bassein) - famous for its paper umbrellas and stunning religious architecture, and an overnight boat away (or 4 hours by rented car, more by bus) to the west. From Pathein it's only a few hours by bus or pick-up truck on to the beaches of Chaungtha and Ngwe Saung].
• Taukkyan - about an hour's drive (35 kilometers) of central Yangon, and site of the Taukkyan War Cemetery.
• Thanlyin - once an important city on the Irrawaddy Delta, and gateway to Kyauktan (Syriam), a small island in the Yangon River, which is the site of the 4th century Ye Le Paya.
• Twante - the most accessible delta town to Yangon, makes for a nice half- or full-day trip.

Buses

• Bagan - 18,000 kyat 13 hr
• Bago (Myanmar)|Bago - 7,000 kyat, 2 hours every hour from 07:00
• Mandalay - standard 10,500 kyat, VIP 5,000 kyat 9 hr
• Mawlamyine - 10,000 kyat, VIP 7 hr, 21:00 & 08:30

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