Joanna James
Myanmar's busiest and most interesting city, Yangon deserves a lot more attention than is awarded. If you are lucky enough to be visiting the place, check out these awesome activities and attractions.
Myanmar's most important religious site, the Shwedagon Pagoda is not to be missed; it is, in fact, an iconic attraction which one cannot overlook, as it stands tall and golden; shimmering over the city. The 99 metre high golden chedi of the pagoda can be seen across the city, beckoning devotees and those dazzled by its glistening façade, to come explore. The shrine is one of Asia's best preserved historical sites and is perfect for observing traditional rituals and coming across vintage artefacts. A mere 20 minutes-drive for guests staying at Sedona Hotel Yangon, this is one attraction you won't forget.
Exploring the local fresh markets are ideal for getting a taste of the city; a new culture is often understood via local food, and in Yangon, the best venues for this are the local fresh markets. Head over to Downtown Yangon and you will find plenty of these markets to explore. Check out Street 26, home to the most famous, located across from the Shri Kali Temple, the market called Thein Gyi Market is quite interesting. Observe and you will notice that while the market is quite active, vehicles pass through on a regular basis. As vehicles approach, vendors will hurriedly move aside their wares, while quite comically, the low lying baskets of food will remain and the vehicles will pass over them.
This is Yangon's iconic landmark, as well as, a historical site; basically, all roads in Downtown Yangon lead to the pagoda. The location is the main hub for bus and other road transportation while housing a number of official government buildings. The area, in fact, is a favoured venue for rallies, political meetings and even protests. Easy to reach from your hotel in Yangon, it is the surrounding environment, which one needs to explore for a taste of local culture and a gist of Yangon city, as, the interiors of the temple are not as impressive as Shwedagon.
The original name of this market denotes its origins; formerly known as the Scott Market, the place was built by the British in 1926, during Myanmar's colonial rule. There is a bazaar like indoor section which you can explore for souvenirs etc. while the surrounding cobblestoned streets and very British like vintage homes hark back to a lost era. The market, although quite touristy in prices and setting is a good place to look for Burmese fabric and dresses, jewellery, handicrafts, artwork and souvenirs.
Located in downtown Yangon, to the west of Sule Pagoda this area falls between 18th and 24th street. A very busy section of town, the area gets quite active towards evening; as vendors offering fresh and ready to eat food line the streets. Check out the 20th street parameter for typical Chinese fare such as rice congee and succulent grilled pork on skewers.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
