Yangon , Myanmar (Burma)

The Other Side of Yangon

Active

(2 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Deep dive into the untouched countryside where to wonder the real rural beauty just at the other side of Yangon. Take a local ferry boat to cross the Yangon River to an almost car-free island and everything you will see there might be much of a difference with the big city like Yangon. Enjoy the quiet and peaceful area of Dala and study the local life style of people.
Highlights are :
- Cross the Yangon River by a local ferry
- Experience the authentic rural lifestyle and scenery
- Learn about countryside monastic school where you will get an insight of old education system with unique tradition
- Inspiring stories of local artisans, working on conservative micro business at Chu Chu workshop

Available options

The Other Side of Yangon

What's included

Tea and snack at local tea shop in Dala

Activities as mentioned

English speaking guide

Dala trishaw

Dala ferry

Detailed itinerary

Meeting point is near Nan Thida Ferry Terminal in front of Junior Duck restaurant.
Meet with your guide and get briefing about the whole tour. After that take a local ferry boat to cross the Yangon River and into the small town of Dala. The ferry that crosses the Yangon River is used every day by thousands of local commuters going to and from work. The scenery quickly changes once you cross the river, from the busy streets of Yangon to the quiet countryside of Dala. After reaching Dala, travel by trishaw through the scenic town with its trees, local neighborhoods and quiet side streets. Stop at a tea shop to experience a daily staple of life in Myanmar and taste the Burmese typical breakfast. While in Dala, visit the market and have plenty of opportunities to stop and interact with the friendly locals.
Trishaw drivers will take you on country roads through local villages to a monastic school. Here you can meet the children and talk to the teachers (with help of your guide). The head monk does all he can with very limited funds to create a good life for the children, and if you care to make a donation while you are here it will be welcomed for the purchase of school books, blankets, rice, clothing etc. The children are delighted to meet foreigners, and these encounters can be very rewarding for visitors.
Next visit is to Chu Chu Workshop; you will see how the plastic bags from the garbage are turned into useful products. Chu Chu members gather plastic bags from the dumping sites and markets in Yangon and work to develop new designs that meet the local and international market demand.
On your way back to the ferry enjoy the views of real local rural life - nothing like the busy streets of Yangon on other side of the river. Return by ferry boat to Yangon, observing life along the river and reflecting back on the excursion to Dala.
Arrive back to Nan Thida Ferry Terminals where your day excursion comes to the end.

What's not included

Meals (Lunch / Dinner)

Gratuities, tips for guide and drivers etc..

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point is near Nan Thida Ferry Terminal in front of Junior Duck restaurant. Your guide wearing green T-shirt holding signboard " Asian Tour - The Other Side of Yangon "
Your guide will be ready at meeting point, starting at 08.00 am (Myanmar time)
The tour starts at 08.30 am (Myanmar time)

About Yangon

Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is Myanmar's largest city and its commercial capital. Known for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon offers a rich blend of tradition and modernity. The city's relaxed pace and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination in Myanmar.

Top Attractions

Shwedagon Pagoda

The Shwedagon Pagoda is the most revered Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar. It is said to contain relics of the four Buddha's and is covered in gold leaf.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Bogyoke Aung San Market

This bustling market is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's also a good spot to try local street food.

Market/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary by item

Chauhtatgyi Buddha Temple

This temple is home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Myanmar. The statue is 65 meters long and 16 meters high.

Religious 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Kandawgyi Lake

This beautiful lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It's surrounded by lush gardens and offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Sule Pagoda

This ancient pagoda is located in the heart of Yangon and is believed to be over 2,000 years old. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Religious/Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mohinga

A popular rice noodle soup made with fish, lemongrass, and other aromatic spices. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a light meal.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains fish, can be made vegetarian with tofu

Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke)

A traditional Burmese salad made with fermented tea leaves, nuts, seeds, and other ingredients. It has a unique tangy and savory flavor.

Snack Vegetarian (if no fish sauce is added)

Samosa

A popular street food item, samosas are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, onions, and sometimes meat. They are often served with a tangy tamarind sauce.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Shan Noodles (Nan Gyi Thok)

A popular noodle dish from the Shan state, made with rice noodles, chicken or pork, and a flavorful gravy. It's often served with pickled vegetables and a fried egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made with chicken or pork

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby national parks Boat tours on the Yangon River Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying a traditional Burmese massage Exploring historic sites and temples Attending traditional performances and festivals Fishing trips Not applicable

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the cool and dry season, making it the most pleasant time to visit. The weather is ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Burmese
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Burmese Kyat (MMK)

Time Zone

GMT+6:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Yangon is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Avoid political demonstrations and protests, as they can turn violent.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Use reputable taxi services and avoid unlicensed cabs.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Yangon International Airport • 15 km (9.3 miles) from city center

By train

Central Railway Station

By bus

Aung Mingalar Bus Terminal, YBS (Yangon Bus Service) Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Yangon. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Yangon Kamayut Dagon

Day trips

Bago

80 km (50 miles) from Yangon • Half day to full day

Bago is an ancient city with a rich history and many historic sites, including the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Kyaik Pun Pagoda, and the Bago Palace.

Thanlyin

25 km (15.5 miles) from Yangon • Half day to full day

Thanlyin is a historic town with a rich past and many interesting sites, including the Kyaik Kauk Pagoda, the Ancient Ships Museum, and the War Cemetery.

Twante

25 km (15.5 miles) from Yangon • Half day to full day

Twante is a small town known for its pottery and traditional crafts. It's a great place to try local food, shop for souvenirs, and experience the local way of life.

Festivals

Thingyan (Water Festival) • April (dates vary by year) Tazaungdaing Festival (Festival of Lights) • October/November (full moon of Tazaungmon) Kason Festival (Water Festival) • April/May (full moon of Kason)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Burmese, such as 'Mingalabar' (hello) and 'Kayzu tin bar de' (thank you), to show respect and make a good impression.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Use reputable taxi services and avoid unlicensed cabs to ensure a safe and reliable ride.
Carry small denominations of cash, as change can be difficult to come by, and bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors.
Be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities, and support sustainable and responsible tourism practices.