Essential Yangon City

Pick up from your hotel. This introductory half-day tour takes visitors to the colonial-historical centre of Yangon, to a photo stop to the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge and the gilded Sule Pagoda, dating back over 2,000 years. Proceed to Bogyoke (Scott) Market followed by an extended visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda, famous worldwide! Its golden stupa is the 'heart' for all Buddhists in Myanmar. The Pagoda is believed to be 2,500 years old and the central stupa in surrounded by dozens of intricately decorated buildings and statues. Firstly, drive to the Eastern entrance of the Shwedagon pagoda and walk along the small shops where monk accessories, Buddha statues, flowers etc. are sold. The entrance is always very busy with sellers and local pilgrims. You will learn about the daily life of the local people who reside in the immediate surroundings and gain a deeper insight into the Buddhist religion as you provide offerings to the monks. Then, walk up the staircase where many vendors sell artefacts for peoples own shrine at home. Continue to walk along the pagoda platform clockwise, as is tradition, around the main Pagoda. During this interactive walking tour of the pagoda, explore walkways and hidden gems that are unknown to most visitors. Stopping in one of the pavilions to prayer, you might get a chance to meet a Buddhist monk and talk about Buddhism and meditation or simply contemplate. Continue through the back door of Shwedagon Pagoda and discover its fascinating history.