Martyrs’ Mausoleum

Located near the northern gate of Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar, the Martyrs' Mausoleum is a deeply significant historic site dedicated to national hero Aung San and the pre-independence interim government leaders assassinated alongside him on July 19, 1947. Visiting this historic landmark offers you a profound look into Myanmar's journey to independence and its political history.

When you explore the site, you will learn about the cabinet members gunned down during a downtown Secretariat meeting, including Prime Minister Aung San, Ba Cho, Mahn Ba Khaing, Ba Win, Thakin Mya, Sao San Tun, Ohn Maung, Abdul Razak, and bodyguard Ko Htwe. The mausoleum holds the remains of six of these leaders, alongside ashes of Sao San Tun.

Beyond the 1947 tragedy, you will reflect on its complex past: the site was rebuilt in 1985 following a devastating 1983 North Korean assassination attempt against South Korea's president that killed 21 people. Long restricted to the public after the 1988 Uprising, the mausoleum re-opened to everyday visitors on Martyrs' Day in 2011, making it a powerful place to experience local historic remembrance alongside fellow travelers and locals alike.

What to see at Martyrs' Mausoleum

• Memorial dedicated to assassinated independence hero Aung San and interim leaders
• Located right near the northern gate of the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda
• Site rebuilt in 1985 after the tragic 1983 North Korean bombing attempt
• Historic resting place for key cabinet members who shaped modern Myanmar

Visiting tips

Plan your visit around July 19 to observe Martyrs' Day, when the government and public gather to pay emotional respects.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: July 19 (Martyrs' Day)

How to get there & what’s nearby

Martyrs' Mausoleum is easy to reach on Yangon’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Yangon Zoological Gardens and Saint Mary's Cathedral, Yangon. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Yangon travel guide.