Also known as Royal Lake, this artificial lake, built by the British as a reservoir, is most attractive at sunset, when the glittering Shwedagon is reflected in its calm waters. The boardwalk, which runs mainly along the southern and western sides of the lake, is also an ideal place for an early-morning jog or stroll.
Just east of the Kandawgyi Palace Hotel, on the southern side of the lake, floats a Shin Upagot shrine. Upagot is a Bodhisattva (Buddhist saint) who is said to protect human beings in moments of mortal danger.
The eastern side of the lake is dominated by a small park, a kids' playground, a paintball attraction (K8000 for 50 balls, open 9am to 9pm) and the fanciful or monstrous (depending on your taste) Karaweik Palace , a reinforced concrete reproduction of a royal barge. There are plenty of lakeside cafes here, good spots for a drink at sunset.
On the north side of the lake Utopia Tower is another quirky feature. This giant pile of artificial rocks houses restaurants, bars, karaoke and snooker and, on the 5th floor, a viewing deck. On the ground floor the Summit Art showcases the impasto canvases of owner-painter Myint Soe and other local artists.
