Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, Maha Bandula Park offers you a historic public green space steeped in the country's rich past. Originally a vacant, swampy site known as Tank Square, the land was cleared and established as a public recreation ground between 1867 and 1868. Today, it stands as a central gathering place named in honor of General Maha Bandula, who fought against the British in the First Anglo-Burmese War.
When you visit, you will find yourself surrounded by some of Yangon's most prominent architectural landmarks, including the historic Sule Pagoda, Yangon City Hall, and the High Court. At the very center of the park stands the striking Independence Monument. Installed after 1948 to commemorate Burmese independence from British rule, this grand obelisk was designed by Sithu U Tin, the same architect responsible for City Hall.
It replaced a marble statue of Queen Victoria that had stood in the park since 1896 before being returned to England. Bounded by Maha Bandula Garden Street, Sule Pagoda Road, Konthe Road, and Maha Bandula Road, this park—which was thoughtfully remodeled in 2012—gives you an authentic glimpse into the architectural heritage and historical evolution of Yangon.
What to see at Maha Bandula Park
- The central Independence Monument, an obelisk designed by architect Sithu U Tin
- Views of surrounding historic landmarks like Sule Pagoda, City Hall, and the High Court
- A historic public recreation ground originally established in 1867–1868
- Central downtown layout bounded by Sule Pagoda Road and Maha Bandula Road
Visiting tips
Take time to admire the surrounding historic architecture like the High Court and City Hall while exploring this central park.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Maha Bandula Park 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.
See the full Yangon travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.