Top Reasons Why Yangon Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Are you tired of the usual tourist spots and looking for a unique Asian travel destination? Look no further than Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city! This vibrant metropolis has something to offer every kind of traveler, from ancient cultural landmarks to delicious street food. In this blog post, we’ll highlight the top reasons why Yangon should be on your travel bucket list. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the charm of Yangon firsthand!
What is Yangon like?
Yangon (Rangoon) is one of the 16 administrative divisions of Burma. The Population is over 10 million people, 47% of whom are below the age of 25. The city revels in its diverse cultures with 88% of citizens claiming to be Buddhist and a predominance of Shan and Karen people. Yangon also boasts some cutting-edge attractions such as the new Bogyoke Aung San Memorial Hall, which opened in November 2016 and honors Myanmar’s first president.
Today, Yangon has blossomed into a thriving metropolis with an impressive blend of ancient Buddhist temples and buzzing modern neighbourhoods. Street food stands overflowing with fragrant curries and pastries line winding alleys whilst pagodas pepper the skyline like glittering sentinels. Culture clashes abound though with Burmese Buddhists tending to be more deferential to their elders than their Muslim or Christian counterparts. Despite this, tourists can expect plenty from this historic foundation as locals go about their everyday lives – giving visitors plenty of chances to get up close and personal with the eclectic mix that makes Yangon so unique!
Attractions in Yangon
1. One of the most livable cities in Asia – Yangon is one of the most livable, affordable and safe cities in Southeast Asia. With a population of around 6 million, it’s remarkably compact and feels manageable on foot.
2. Impressive Buddhist architecture – Yangon’s golden age was arguably between the 14th and 18th centuries, when it was known as Ava (the former capital of Burma). The city is home to some impressive Buddhist architecture, including stunning pagodas and monasteries.
3. A wealth of cultural heritage – Yangon is rich in cultural heritage, with a diverse range of traditional craftsmanship on display in its markets and villages. There are also plenty of historic attractions to visit, such as the Shwedagon Pagoda and Pathein Monastery.
4. Fantastic food – Yangon has an incredibly varied cuisine, from sweet delicacies like mango lassi to fiery chili chicken noodles. There are also plenty of international restaurants available with delicious (and cheap) food options throughout the city.
5. Fascinating history – Yangon is steeped in fascinating history dating back over 2,500 years; it played a significant role in both Buddhism and Shan Statehood during ancient times. Today, there are numerous historical sites to visit, such as Mandalay Palace and Maha Nakhone Palace National Museum.
How to Get to Yangon
Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and is known for its stunning Buddhist temples, colonial architecture, and street food. There are many ways to get to Yangon, but the most common way is by air. From Bangkok, there are direct flights several times a week. The cost of flying into Yangon is relatively high, but it’s worth it to experience one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated cities. You can also fly into Mandalay or Naypyidaw and then take a short taxi ride to Yangon.
If you’re interested in exploring more of Myanmar’s towns and villages, there are several transport options available. You can travel by bus from Mandalay or Kyaukpyu (lake town at the foot of Mt. Aso), or travel by train from anywhere in Myanmar. Buses and trains can be very slow—sometimes taking weeks to reach their destinations—but they offer an unique perspective on rural life in Myanmar. Travelling by bus or train is also cheaper than flying into Yangon from elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Things to Do in Yangon
If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, Yangon may be the perfect destination for you. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting this fascinating city:
1. Yangon’s astonishingly rich history
Yangon is home to significant historical sites that date back to over 1,000 years ago. Take time to explore the city’s war-time capital and colonial enclave of Bagan, as well as its more recent past with visits to Sule Pagoda and the Shwedagon Pagoda.
2. The city’s vibrant cultural scene
Yangon is home to a highly active arts community and hosts regular music, theatre, film and art festivals. Chinatown is an excellent place to sample local cuisine and buy authentic ethnic souvenirs.
3. The natural beauty of Yangon’s surroundings
Visit Mount Yoma or Konbaung Lake for stunning views of the city skyline, or head out for a hike in Ngapali National Park. There are also plenty of lakeside resorts within easy reach for a relaxing holiday away from it all.
Food in Yangon
Yangon is a delightful city with plenty of food to explore. From noodles in the morning to Bibimbap at night, there’s something for everyone. While Yangon doesn’t have any Michelin starred restaurants, it makes up for it with its variety and affordability. Here are some of the best reasons why you should add Yangon to your travel itinerary:
1. The food scene in Yangon is incredibly varied and affordable. You can find some of the best street food in Yangon for under $2 USD!
2. There are plenty of great restaurants that offer both Western and Burmese cuisine, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
3. The city has a great range of evening entertainment options, from parks and lakeside bars to dance clubs and live music venues. There’s always something exciting happening in Yangon!
Conclusion
Yangon is a unique and welcoming city that offers plenty of cultural attractions. Whether you are looking to explore the history, art, and culture or simply want to relax in a bustling metropolis rife with atmosphere, Yangon will Suit Your needs. Plus, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable destinations and there are plenty of activities on offer should you want to stay active while exploring this beautiful country. So what are you waiting for? Explore Yangon today!
