Yangon can be defined by the numerous temples and pagodas that are nestled within its boundraries. For instance, Shewedagon Pagoda is Yangoon’s most famous landmark. Rising to a height of 100 meters on top of Singuttara Hill, it can be reached by taking the elevator or walking the stairs. The Pagoda was built more than 25000 years ago and it is believed that it contains sacred relics of Buddha. It is often described as “the great Pyramid of fire’ and a ‘waking, winking, tinkling wonder.’

The Sule Pagoda was built around 2,250 years ago and is believed to hold the sacred hair of Buddha. It rises up 48 meters. Located not far away from the Shwedagon Pagoda, the Yangon Zoo houses endangered species of birds, reptiles, apes, crocodiles and provides a nice day trip.

The National Museum exhibits Mandalay regalia, once belonging to the last two kings of Myanmar. These items were returned to Myanmar by the British in 1964, as a diplomatic gesture.

The Botanical Garden is situated at a distance of around 16 km from the city centre at Mingaladon. The garden has thousands of native, foreign, and hybrid orchids. It is a part of the National Park in the northern environs of Yangon.

The Kaba Aye pagoda is located outside the city center, about 11 km. This pagoda was build by the former Prime Minister U Nu as the Sixth Buddhist Synod in 1954 to celebrate the 2,500 year birth of Buddha. This pagoda is also a symbol of world peace. The synod is held in the sacred cave near Kaba ave.

The Mae La Mu Pagoda is located 13 km from the city center; this pagoda is believed to be built by Mae La Mu who was the queen of Myanmar. She built this landmark to honor her grandson who died as a child.