Yangon, the cosmopolitan capital city of Myanmar, with a population of over 5 million, still maintains its colonial charm with wide tree lined avenues, tranquil lakes, and gracious turn of the century architecture and earned the name of "The Golden City of the East." Yangon only came into prominence in 1755 when King Alaungpaya conquered Lower Myanmar and built a new city on the site of Yangon, which at that time was known as Dagon. Yangon means 'end of strife'. The King rather vainly hoped that with the conquest of Lower Myanmar, his struggles would be over. It became the capital in 1885 when the British completed the conquest of Upper Myanmar. Yangon lies in the fertile delta country of southern Myanmar on the side Yangon River, about 30 km from the Andaman Sea.

Shwedagon Pagoda: Towering the green cityscape of Yangon, the Shwedagon Pagoda is the prominent landmark visible from miles around. Being one of the wonders of the world, the Shwedagon is believed to have been built since 2500 years ago during the Buddha's life time. Successive kings had embellished the pagoda during the 15 ^th century and Queen Shin Saw Pu raised it to its present height.

Kaba Aye Pagoda: The name Kaba Aye Pagoda in Myanmar means “World Peace” to which this Pagoda is dedicated. Built in 1952, the pagoda is significant for the Sixth World Buddhist Synod which was held in its large compound in 1954. The Buddhist Art Museum and Maha Pasana Cave are also located in the same compound.

Chaukhtatkyi Pagoda: Located on Shwegondine Road, this colossal (70 metres long) Reclining Buddha is one of the largest images in Myanmar. This original image was built in 1907. But it has suffered damage due to climate over the years. In 1957 it was demolished and rebuilt to this structure in 1966.

Sule Pagoda: Situated right in the center of Yangon – is an excellent landmark. It is said to be over 2000 years old. The pagoda is said to enshrine a hair of the Buddha.

Botahtaung Pagoda: The Botahtaung Pagoda was named after the thousand military leaders who escorted relics of the Buddha brought from India over two thousand years ago.

Bogyoke Aung San Market: Bogyoke Aung San Market was first built in 1926. It was named Scott Market after Mr. C. Scott, the then Municipal Commissioner. Later, the name was changed to Bogyoke Aung San Market in honor of the national leader General Aung San. There are some 2000 shops selling luxury items, handicrafts, food stuffs, clothing, jewelry, fashion and consumer goods.

National Museum: Located at Pyay Road, the National Museum exhibits the Lion Throne of the last Myanmar King, Royal Regalia of 19 ^th century, artifacts of various ancient periods, musical instruments and paintings.

Natural History Museum: Situated on Lu-O-Yon Street, the Natural History Museum has a notable collection of Myanmar’s natural resources including flora and fauna, forest products, minerals and rocks.

Zoological Garden: Located near Kandawgi Hotel, the Zoo is noted for its collection of wild animals, flora and fauna, which have been collected over the years since it was opened in 1906. On weekend and public holidays Snake Dance and Elephant Circus are performed for visitors.

Hlawga Wildlife Park: The Hlawga Wildlife Park is about 45 minutes’ drive from the city. The park which covers 1,650 acres of land is home to over 70 kinds of herbivorous animals and 90 species of birds. Flocks of migratory birds frequently visit the park. It is an ideal place for picnickers, naturalists, botanists and bird watchers. Visitors can also enjoy elephant rides, boating and fishing in the park.

Bago (Pegu): Bago is an ancient capital of the Mon Kingdom in the 15 ^th Century; it is situated only 80 km from Yangon. Places of interest in Bago are Shwemawdaw Pagoda, built over 2000 years ago; the famous Kalyani Sima (Ordination Hall); Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha (55 metres long); four high and huge Buddha images of Kyaikpun Pagoda and the Bago Market.

Thanlyin (Syriam): Thanlyin is only 45 minutes by ferry across the Bago River or about 30 minutes drive from Yangon by car or by train. It was an important trading centre in the 17 ^th century under the Portuguese adventurer De Brito. Ruins of old buildings can still be seen in Thanlyin. Kyaikkauk Pagoda and Yele Pagoda (a pagoda on a small island) at Kyauktan are worth visiting.

Twantay: A boat cruise to Twantay (24 km from Yangon) along the Twantay canal takes about two hours. Twantay is noted for its pottery and cotton-weaving industries and it also offers visitors an opportunity to see life along the canal.