3 Places to Escape From Urbanism in Yangon, Myanmar

Before you go: Since the 2021 military coup, parts of Myanmar have seen armed conflict, and the March 2025 earthquake centred near Mandalay and Sagaing damaged many temples and historic sites. Conditions change quickly, so check your government’s latest travel advisory and confirm with a local guide that the places you plan to visit are open and safe to reach before you go.

Yangon, or otherwise known as Rangoon, is one of the most famous cities to visit in Myanmar. It will be probably the first city that you see in Myanmar, and it is also the largest city in Myanmar. Besides the astonishing pagodas that are scattered throughout the city, Yangon is also surrounded by many natural attractions and parks. It is perfect for walking around and relaxing away from the crowded tourist areas. Walking around and enjoying every bit of what nature has to offer. Parks are also ideal for taking pictures and freezing those unforgettable moments we get while traveling. MyProGuide is taking you through 3 must-see nature-related places in Yangon.

1. Catch A Breather in The Maha Bandula Park

See Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Myanmar

Maha Bandula Park is located at the heart of the downtown area of Yangon. The park’s most famous feature is the Independence Monument, a tall white obelisk surrounded by lion figures. A little bit of historical background: from 1896 a marble statue of Queen Victoria stood where the Independence Monument stands now. The monument was built after Myanmar gained independence from Britain in 1948, replacing the Queen Victoria Statue which was ultimately shipped back to England.

You Might Find Interesting The 2 Most Famous Hills in Mandalay

Its strategic location makes it a perfect place for a pleasant stroll and de-stress for a bit for the adults while children find it as a joyful playground. With that said, you will be able to see visitors at all times and from all ages. It is an excellent place to enjoy the local culture and diversity. Besides, surrounding the park, you can find many colonial-style buildings, including the City Hall, the High Court, and the old Row & Co department store.  

2. Enjoy a Fountain Dance at Myanmar People’s Park

Myanmar People’s Park is next on our not miss to visit nature-related places in Yangon. This large park offers an unobstructed view of the Shwedagon Pagoda. Myanmar People’s compound includes children playgrounds, art galleries, and many botanic green areas for visitors to rest.

See also Horse Carriage Riding in Myanmar

In the evening the park has been known for its dancing water fountains, and on some special days, such as Independence Day and Union Day, you may also see Myanmar ethnic dances (check locally what is on, as events have been less regular in recent years). Many public events are held in the park. This place is also quite near to the National Museum. Which adds to the reason why Myanmar people’s park is one of the areas not miss in Yangon.

3. Feel Like A Royal At Kandawgyi Lake (Royal lake)

Kandawgyi (Royal Lake) is next on our agenda of places to meet with nature in Yangon. Kandawgyi Lake is an artificial lake that was built by the British as a reservoir. There are 110 acres of the garden area, and the lake occupies 150 acres. At Kandawgyi, you can walk around and see a variety of beautiful flowers while observing the scenic view of the lake standing underneath large shady trees to escape from the burning sun. There is also a children’s playground, souvenir shops and several restaurants, and the Yangon Zoological Gardens are right next door.

You Might Be Interested In Tasty Street Food Snacks at Yangon

Kandawgyi is famous for the Karaweik Hall. Karaweik Hall, built in 1972 as a replica of a Burmese royal barge, looks like a huge golden boat floating on the lake. You can see the glittering effect from the reflection of the sun. From the Kandawgyi lake, you can also see the Shwedagon pagoda. Besides, the sunset view from Kandawgyi is breathtaking. If you are looking for a place to meet with nature and a fresh breath of air in the busy city; Don’t miss a visit to Kandawgyi (Royal Lake), you’ll be amazed by the scenery here. Want a local to show you around Yangon? Find a guide on MyProGuide.

Cover photo: User:Hintha, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons