Movie & TV Filming Locations in Rangoon, Burma
1. Shwedagon Pagoda
A famous golden pagoda known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance, also featured in the James Bond film 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
- Architectural Marvel: Unique mix of Burmese, Indian, and Thai architectural styles.
- Spiritual Center: Offers a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
- Film Connection: Familiar to James Bond fans as the location of Sir James's climactic battle.
2. Sule Pagoda
Another iconic pagoda located in downtown Rangoon, used as a backdrop in the film 'Burmese Days'.
- Urban Landmark: Standing tall amidst bustling city life since the 8th century.
- Historical Significance: Associated with key events in Burmese history, including protests against military rule.
- Film Connection: Recognizable as a setting for George Orwell's 'Burmese Days' adaptation.
3. Scott Market
A bustling market featuring local goods and food, showcased in the films 'The Lady' and 'Burma VJ'.
- Shopping Haven: Offers a wide variety of Burmese handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.
- Culinary Destination: Features numerous food stalls offering local delicacies like Mohinga and Samosa Soup.
- Film Connection: Portrayed as a vibrant commercial hub in 'The Lady' and 'Burma VJ'.
4. Inya Lake
A picturesque lake featured in the film 'The Lady', offering a tranquil escape from city life.
- Natural Retreat: Provides a peaceful and scenic setting for walks, picnics, or boat rides.
- Historical Interest: Surrounded by British colonial-era buildings like the University of Rangoon.
- Film Connection: Serves as a backdrop in 'The Lady', showcasing Aung San Suu Kyi's life and struggles.
5. Kandawgyi Park
A lush park home to Karaweik Palace, seen in the film 'The Lady'.
- Natural Oasis: Offers a beautiful and serene environment amidst bustling Rangoon.
- Cultural Experience: Includes traditional Burmese architecture, art, and performances at Karaweik Palace.
- Film Connection: Provides a scenic setting for 'The Lady', illustrating Aung San Suu Kyi's life.
6. Botataung Pagoda
An ancient pagoda used as a filming location for the TV series 'The River Kwai' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
- Archaeological Site: Features a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
- Religious Significance: Holds relics of four Buddhas and offers spiritual experiences.
- Film Connection: Recognized as a filming location for 'The River Kwai' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
7. Strand Road
A historic waterfront street that served as a backdrop in the film 'Burmese Days'.
- Historic Landmark: Boasts colonial-era architecture and charm.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Rangoon's British colonial past.
- Film Connection: Portrayed as the bustling town center in 'Burmese Days'.
8. Rangoon University
A notable university that appeared in the film 'The Lady', reflecting Aung San Suu Kyi's academic background.
- Educational Hub: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields.
- Historical Landmark: Dating back to the late 19th century, showcases Burmese architectural styles.
- Film Connection: Symbolizes Aung San Suu Kyi's academic and political journey in 'The Lady'.
9. Maha Bandula Park
A central park featuring a war memorial, showcased in the film 'The River Kwai'.
- Historical Landmark: Honors Burmese heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country.
- Cultural Experience: Includes traditional Burmese architecture and statues.
- Film Connection: Appears as a setting in the film 'The River Kwai'.
10. Chinatown
A vibrant district showcased in the film 'Burma VJ', offering a unique cultural experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Features Chinese temples, restaurants, and shops.
- Shopping Opportunities: Offers a variety of unique goods, including jade ornaments and traditional tea sets.
- Film Connection: Portrayed in the documentary 'Burma VJ' as a center of resistance activity.
11. India Town
Another ethnic enclave showcased in the film 'Burma VJ', offering Indian cuisine and goods.
- Culinary Delights: Provides a wide range of authentic Indian dishes.
- Shopping Experience: Features Indian textiles, spices, and jewelry.
- Film Connection: Portrayed in 'Burma VJ' as a community gathering place.
12. Rangoon Central Railway Station
A historic train station that appeared in the films 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
- Historic Landmark: Dating back to the colonial era, showcases British architectural styles.
- Transportation Hub: Offers train connections across Burma and to neighboring countries.
- Film Connection: Recognized as a filming location for 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
13. Dagon University
A modern university that featured in the film 'The Lady', symbolizing Aung San Suu Kyi's academic and political journey.
- Educational Center: Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
- Contemporary Architecture: Features modern buildings and infrastructure.
- Film Connection: Illustrates Aung San Suu Kyi's academic background and political journey in 'The Lady'.
14. City Hall
A grand building featured in the film 'Burma VJ', housing various government offices.
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases Burmese and British architectural styles.
- Government Center: Serves as the administrative hub of Rangoon.
- Film Connection: Portrayed in 'Burma VJ' as a symbol of government authority and control.
15. Inya Lake Golf Course
A scenic golf course that served as a location for the film 'The Lady', offering a recreational activity amidst natural beauty.
- Recreational Activity: Offers an 18-hole golf course with beautiful lake views.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery, trees, and flowers.
- Film Connection: Appears as a setting in the film 'The Lady'.