Weird & Unusual Attractions in Rangoon, Burma

1. Shwedagon Pagoda's Jade Buddha

Explore the largest pagoda in Myanmar, home to a massive jade Buddha statue.

Giant Statue: Standing over 6 meters tall, it's one of the largest jade Buddhas in the world.
Mythical Origins: Legend states that this statue contains eight strands of Buddha's hair.
Cultural Significance: The jade Buddha represents enlightenment and wisdom, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year.

Visit the Maha Wizaya Pagoda to see the world's largest book made of white marble slabs.

Impressive Size: Measuring over 180 feet long and 20 feet high, it is truly a sight to behold.
Inscription Contents: The book is inscribed with the Buddhist scriptures, offering a spiritual experience.
Architectural Marvel: A marvel of engineering, each marble slab weighs over a ton and was transported without modern technology.

Discover the unique two-headed tortoise at Yangon Zoo.

Rare Specimen: It is one of only a few known two-headed tortoises in existence.
Long Life: Despite its unique condition, the tortoise is said to have lived for over 100 years.
Educational Value: Visiting the two-headed tortoise can inspire curiosity about genetic anomalies in animals.

Experience a mythical Burmese royal barge floating on Kandawgyi Lake.

Authentic Design: Based on the ancient Burmese royal barge, it's an architectural and cultural marvel.
Floating Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Burmese cuisine while taking in breathtaking lake views.
Nightly Light Show: At night, the Karaweik Palace comes alive with a magical light and music show.

Visit an upside-down house hidden within the bustling Bogyoke Aung San Market.

Unusual Architecture: This unique building stands on its ceiling, offering a quirky photo opportunity.
Inside the Market: The upside-down house is located within Rangoon's famous market, providing an interesting contrast.
Interactive Exhibits: Inside the house, you can find various exhibits that playfully challenge gravity.

Experience traditional Burmese circus performances with acrobats, animals, and Burmese music.

Cultural Experience: The circus provides an immersive glimpse into Myanmar's rich cultural heritage.
Acrobatics and Animals: See awe-inspiring acrobatic performances and trained elephants, tigers, and monkeys.
Live Music: Enjoy live Burmese music that complements the energetic circus atmosphere.

Visit the intricate and colorful ancestor worship halls in Rangoon's Chinatown.

Rich History: These halls have been used for centuries to honor and pay respect to ancestors.
Vibrant Designs: The halls are adorned with intricate Chinese carvings, paintings, and lanterns.
Spiritual Experience: Witness the respect and devotion shown to ancestors during visits by local families.

Get a taste of the mysterious while enjoying traditional Burmese tea at the Golden Tea Shop.

Legendary Fortune Teller: The shop's fortuneteller has been reading palms and predicting futures for over 100 years.
Iconic Location: Located in the heart of downtown Rangoon, it's a must-visit attraction.
Cultural Insight: Understanding Burmese beliefs and superstitions can add depth to your travel experience.

Visit the former home of Nobel laureate and Myanmar's democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi.

Historical Significance: The house served as a symbol of resistance during the struggle for democracy.
Iconic Location: Located in a residential neighborhood, it offers a glimpse into local life.
Inspirational Experience: Learn about her life, legacy, and the journey towards democracy in Myanmar.

See one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Myanmar at Chaukhtatgyi Paya.

Impressive Size: Standing over 60 meters long, it's one of the largest reclining Buddhas in Southeast Asia.
Detailed Carvings: The statue is meticulously carved with intricate details depicting Buddha's life story.
Cultural Significance: Pay respect to the revered figure and learn about Buddhist teachings in this peaceful setting.

Catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive Irrawaddy Dolphin at Yangon Zoo.

Endangered Species: The Irrawaddy Dolphin is critically endangered, making a sighting special.
Natural Habitat Experience: While in captivity, the dolphin is provided with a simulated natural habitat for its well-being.
Conservation Efforts: Supporting conservation efforts by visiting this exhibit raises awareness about protecting endangered species.

Uncover your future and local beliefs at a fortune teller shop within Bogyoke Aung San Market.

Traditional Practice: The practice of fortune telling is deeply rooted in Burmese culture.
Skilled Fortunetellers: Experienced and knowledgeable fortunetellers offer personalized readings based on palmistry, astrology, or tarot cards.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Burmese beliefs, superstitions, and folklore during your reading.

Marvel at the massive Buddha footprint carved into a large marble slab at Thabin Gyi Pagoda.

Religious Significance: The footprint is believed to have been left by Gautama Buddha himself.
Impressive Craftsmanship: The intricate detail of the footprint is a testament to ancient Burmese stone-carving skills.
Pilgrimage Destination: Join devotees in paying respect and gaining spiritual merit at this revered site.

See the world's longest reclining Buddha mural at the Shwe Thar Mru Paya Temple.

Impressive Length: The mural is over 250 meters long, making it a breathtaking sight.
Detailed Depiction: The mural showcases the life story of Buddha in intricate detail.
Cultural Insight: Understanding Buddhist teachings through this expansive work of art can deepen your travel experience.

Spot a rare white giraffe at Yangon Zoo.

Rare Specimen: White giraffes are extremely rare, with only a few dozen in existence worldwide.
Natural Habitat Experience: While in captivity, the giraffe is provided with a simulated natural habitat for its well-being.
Conservation Efforts: Supporting conservation efforts by visiting this exhibit raises awareness about protecting endangered species.