Fun Things to do when you are in Myanmar – By Exploring Yangon

Yangon's most revered religious site the Shwedagon Pagoda is one of the country's most treasured monuments. Visible across the bustling city the shimmering edifice casts a golden glow across the city. In fact, the golden surface is so dazzling that one cannot look straight at it. The sacred temple is a revered pilgrimage site and Buddhist devotees gather there to perform all manner of rituals. Watch as followers walk around the circumference of the pagoda chanting religious prayers while others perform sacred rites with accordance to the day they were born. There is much to see around the pagoda in terms of historical artefacts but it is the holistic surroundings and soothing nature of the temple that will leave you with a sense of peace.

The best way to experience the city is through the local fresh market; a hive of activity. The best part is the abundance of food sold there and there is no better way to understand a city that through its cuisine. The market is also ideal for experiencing local culture and watching the locals engaged in daily chores.

All roads in Downtown Yangon head towards Sule Pagoda; therefore this is a navigational map as well as a revered Buddhist temple. The area houses the central bus stand and several government offices and in recent years played venue to several political rallies and meetings.

Built in 1926 under British colonial leadership this huge place was first called the Scott Market. The centre of the market is a huge bazaar while the outer border's framed by cobblestone streets and shophouses offers a back in time vibe to the area. The place is a tourist market hence prices of goods are a bit high; however, if you are looking for jewellery, souvenirs, artworks, Burmese dresses and fabric this is the place to go to.

The best place to indulge the foodie in you, Chinatown Yangon is located to the west of Sule Pagoda. Definitely one of the city's busiest areas Chinatown gets quite crowded in the evenings. This is due to a large number of food stalls that come alive by evening. The best place to try all manner of mouth-watering food that ranges across fresh products and cooked items.

Enjoy the relaxing ambience of Kandawgyi Park, a total contrast to the bustling downtown precinct of Yangon. Beautiful Kandawgyi Lake seen from Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon offers serene environs to soothe mind body and soul. The lakeside is well serviced with relaxing restaurants offering spectacular views across the area and is also one of the best precincts to look for the finest hotels Yangon has to offer. On the East side is the beautiful Karaweik Palace and more restaurants. Look forward to long walks and interactions with nature around the Lake Boardwalk; popular amongst locals and tourists exercising and enjoying the outdoors.