Little India
With a history that stretches back to the colonial era, Little India is a buzzing neighborhood in Yangon that’s known for great street food, open-air fruit sellers, and the magnificent Sri Kaali Amman Hindu Temple. Set out on foot to find Indian-style teahouses, restaurants, and shops—they’re a glimpse of Yangon’s impressive cultural diversity.
The basics
Founded by Indian and Bangladeshi migrants during British rule, Yangon’s Little India neighborhood remains a hub for the local Hindu community. Because food is a highlight here, Little India is sometimes included on food tours of Yangon, which stop to sample some of the area’s distinctive treats. Since Little India is not as clearly defined as the neighboring Yangon Chinatown, it’s a great place to wander without fixed plans. Simply head to Sri Kaali Amman Hindu Temple and explore from there.
Things to know before you go
- Little India is a great stop for foodies and history buffs.
- Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options on menus here—as well as entirely vegetarian establishments.
- Since Little India blends into Yangon Chinatown, it’s easy to explore both areas in a single trip.
How to get there
The starting point for visiting Little India is Sri Kaali Amman Hindu Temple, which is located on Anawrahta Road where it intersects with Konzedan Street. Buses are abundant in the area—the nearest bus stop to Sri Kaali Amman Hindu Temple is Kone Zay Tan bus stop—but navigating public transit can be tough if you don’t speak Burmese. Unless you’re up for a challenge, grab a taxi.
Trip ideas
When to get there
As with much of central Yangon, Little India is buzzing from morning to night. When it comes to enjoying street food, though, things heat up after dark. If you’re visiting in the morning, make a beeline for Theingyi Zei, among the city’s biggest markets. There’s plenty to eat here, as well, with abundant stalls serving up hearty plates of noodles.
Indian Street Food in Yangon
You’ll find plenty of Indian influence in Yangon’s street food—Myanmar sits at a flavor crossroads—but these foodie favorites are distinctively subcontinental. Start with dosa, the thin Indian pancakes cooked over hot coals throughout the city. Next, try some fried roti, which is served piping hot with sweet or savory add-ons. As in the rest of Yangon, sweet, milky tea is beloved in Little India; stopping for a glass is a great chance to rub shoulders with locals.
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