Yangon

Yangon, the capital city of Myanmar, was formerly known as Rangoon, with the country itself called Burma during British rule. Although its history dates back to the 1st century, the most turbulent times have occurred in the last two centuries. Colonised by Britain in 1825, Myanmar remained under British rule for 113 years until gaining independence in 1948. The British influence is still evident in Yangon today, particularly in the remnants of grand colonial buildings. Unfortunately, only a few of these structures have been preserved, with many now serving as hotels or restaurants. However, what will likely captivate any visitor to Yangon is the city's deeper historical connection, epitomised by the Shwedagon Pagoda. Originally, Yangon was called Dagon, and this mighty golden pagoda is one of the most significant Buddhist monuments in the world. Believed to be around 2,500 years old, the Shwedagon Pagoda has withstood earthquakes, occupations, and fires, undergoing numerous remodels, renovations, and restorations over the centuries. It is the most magnificent pagoda one could ever hope to see, and, in many ways, it embodies the essence of Yangon.