Hotels in Yangon

Yangon: Colonial Riverfront and Pagoda Skyline

Yangon sits on the Yangon River in southern Myanmar, roughly 30 km from the Gulf of Martaban. Formerly the national capital until 2006, the city of 7.4 million retains the country's densest concentration of British colonial architecture — over 180 listed buildings crowd the grid streets of Downtown Yangon, including the 1910 Strand Hotel and the High Court. Rising above the low-rise cityscape, the Shwedagon Pagoda — gilded at 98 metres and reputedly 2,600 years old — anchors the northern ridge of Dagon Township and draws pilgrims daily from across Southeast Asia.

Where to Stay in Yangon

Most hotels cluster in three zones. Downtown (Kyauktada and Pabedan townships) places guests within walking distance of colonial landmarks and Bogyoke Aung San Market. Bahan Township, north of Inya Lake, suits longer stays and diplomatic visits. Yankin and Kamayut offer quieter mid-range options along tree-lined streets favoured by expats and NGO workers.

Practical Tips

• Airport transfers: Yangon International Airport (RGN) is 19 km north of Downtown; taxis take 30–50 minutes depending on traffic.
• Currency: The kyat (MMK) is the only accepted tender at most local shops; carry cash.
• Climate: The monsoon runs June–October; the dry cool season (November–February) draws the majority of leisure visitors.