A 46-kilometre loop around the city and suburbs on slow commuter trains - a cheap, people-watching way to see markets, paddy edges and neighbourhoods tourists never reach.
The Yangon Circular Railway is a 46-kilometre loop that runs around the city and its suburbs, and trains depart from Yangon Central Railway Station on Bogyoke Aung San Road. The full circuit takes about three hours on slow commuter trains, with stops at dozens of stations along the way. The ride is popular with visitors because it offers a view of daily life in Myanmar: station markets where vendors board with baskets of vegetables, rice fields and paddy edges on the outskirts, small workshops, villages and suburban neighbourhoods that most tourists never reach. Carriages are simple, with open windows and bench seats, and local passengers are generally friendly. The fare is very low, about 200 to 1,000 MMK (about $0.05 to $0.25), though foreigners may be asked for a higher price, so visitors should confirm at the counter. Tickets are bought at the station, and visitors should ask for the Circle Line platform. Trains run from about 06:00 through the day, but timetables are not always reliable, and the departure board should be checked. The best time to ride is mid-morning, outside the rush hours of 07:00 to 09:00 and 16:00 to 18:00, when carriages are packed. Visitors can do the full loop or ride a section and get off at a station of interest, taking a taxi back. A seat near an open window gives the best view and photographs, but visitors should keep hands and cameras inside near stations. Light bags, water and a hat are useful, since the carriages are not air-conditioned. Visitors should keep valuables close and avoid wearing flashy jewellery.
| Admission | About 200-1,000 MMK (~$0.05-0.25); foreigners may be asked for a higher fare (confirm at the counter) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Trains run through the day from about 06:00; confirm departures on the station board |
| Typical visit | About 3 hours for the full loop |
| Best time | Morning (avoid the 07:00-09:00 and 16:00-18:00 rush) |
| Getting there | Walk or taxi to Yangon Central Railway Station; buy a ticket at the counter and board the Circle Line train |
| Address | Yangon Central Railway Station, Bogyoke Aung San Road (platform for the Circle Line), Yangon |
Location
Yangon Central Railway Station, Bogyoke Aung San Road (platform for the Circle Line), Yangon
16.7816, 96.1613 View on map
Highlights
- 46-kilometre loop around the city and suburbs
- Station markets with vendors boarding the carriages
- Views of paddy fields and everyday neighbourhoods
- Very low fares and local company
Tips for visiting
- Ride mid-morning to avoid the 07:00-09:00 and 16:00-18:00 rush hours
- Confirm the foreigner fare at the counter
- Check the departure board, as timetables can change
- Bring water, a hat and a light bag
- Keep valuables secure and cameras inside near stations
When to visit
Mid-morning, outside rush hours, when carriages have seats and the light suits photography.
Accessibility
Platforms are low and carriage steps are high, so boarding is difficult for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Carriages can be crowded.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the full loop take?
About three hours, though delays are possible.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but carriages are crowded at rush hour and not air-conditioned, so a mid-morning ride is better.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is generally fine, though visitors should ask before photographing people up close.