Sofaer Building Lokanat Galleries
Yangon's oldest art gallery, offering a spacious, traditional setting for diverse art exhibitions in the heart of downtown.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art focus
Sofaer Building Lokanat Galleries
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yangon's oldest art gallery, offering a spacious, traditional setting for diverse art exhibitions in the heart of downtown.
"A nice and wide space for art exhibition, very famous and old art gallery in downtown Yangon."
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is usually allowed, but check for specific exhibition rules. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
Combine your visit with a stroll through historic downtown Yangon. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Art Exhibitions
Explore diverse art displays in Yangon's oldest and most traditional gallery, a true cultural gem.

Spacious Exhibition Halls
Wander through generous, well-lit spaces designed to showcase art beautifully.

Downtown Yangon Charm
Experience the vibrant art scene in a famous, historic gallery located in the heart of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Artful Atmosphere
Plan Your Visit to Lokanat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is usually allowed, but check for specific exhibition rules. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
Combine your visit with a stroll through historic downtown Yangon. :world_map:
📅 Check Exhibition Schedules
Visit their social media for current and upcoming art shows. :calendar:
✨ Immerse in Tradition
Appreciate the gallery's historic ambiance and its role in Myanmar's art scene. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is usually allowed, but check for specific exhibition rules. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore Downtown
Combine your visit with a stroll through historic downtown Yangon. :world_map:
📅 Check Exhibition Schedules
Visit their social media for current and upcoming art shows. :calendar:
✨ Immerse in Tradition
Appreciate the gallery's historic ambiance and its role in Myanmar's art scene. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lokanat Galleries as a nice, traditional space for art exhibitions, highlighting its spaciousness and historic significance as Yangon's oldest art gallery. It's recognized as a famous and important cultural spot in downtown Yangon, offering a great experience for art lovers.
"A nice traditional place for Arts exhibition!"
Thu Ra Htun
"As an oldest art gallery of Yangon, visit to there itself is a great experience"
prof. naing Zaw
"nice and wide space for art exhibition"
Kalyar Ei Ei Lwin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lokanat Galleries is located in downtown Yangon, easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with exploring the surrounding historic district on foot. :taxi:
Parking in downtown Yangon can be challenging. It's often best to rely on taxis or ride-sharing apps for direct drop-off and pick-up. :car:
Using a navigation app on your phone is highly recommended. Taxis are plentiful, and agreeing on a fare beforehand or using a metered taxi is advisable. :iphone:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically free, though donations are appreciated to support the gallery's operations and exhibitions. Always check for any special exhibition ticket requirements. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary depending on current exhibitions. It's best to check their official social media pages or website for the most up-to-date information. :clock:
For private viewings or event bookings, it's recommended to contact the gallery directly through their listed contact information. :envelope:
While general entry is often free, some special or international exhibitions might have a separate admission fee. Confirm details with the gallery beforehand. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Lokanat is known for showcasing a wide range of contemporary and traditional Myanmar art, often featuring both local and international artists. Expect diverse styles and mediums. :art:
Yes, reviewers consistently mention the gallery's nice and wide space, making it comfortable to view exhibitions without feeling crowded. :walking:
Photography policies can vary per exhibition. It's polite to look for signage or ask gallery staff before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! As Yangon's oldest art gallery, it provides a fantastic opportunity to experience and learn about the country's rich artistic heritage and contemporary scene. :books:
Guided tours are not always standard, but sometimes available for specific exhibitions. Inquire at the gallery upon arrival or check their schedule. :guide_dog:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The gallery itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, downtown Yangon offers numerous cafes and restaurants within walking distance, catering to various tastes and budgets. :coffee:
You'll find a mix of traditional Burmese cuisine, as well as international options like Chinese, Indian, and Western food in the surrounding downtown area. :noodles:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can differ for each exhibition. Generally, personal photos for non-commercial use are permitted, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the artwork. Always check for signs or ask staff. :iphone:
The spacious halls themselves offer great backdrops for photos of the art. The exterior of the historic Sofaer Building can also be photogenic, especially during the day. :camera:
Tripods are usually not allowed inside art galleries to prevent obstruction and potential damage. It's best to rely on handheld shots or inquire directly with the gallery. :tripod:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific children's activities, the gallery's traditional atmosphere offers a calm respite from the city's hustle. Encourage kids to talk about what they see and how the art makes them feel. It's a chance for a quiet, enriching outing that can spark creativity and curiosity. Remember to check if flash photography is allowed, as it's usually restricted. :child:
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Visiting Lokanat provides a direct connection to the artistic legacy of Myanmar. You can explore works that reflect the nation's history, traditions, and contemporary social narratives. It’s an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context that shapes the country, making it an enriching experience for any history buff. :scroll:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy in Art: The Sofaer Building
Visitors often remark on the spaciousness of the gallery, which allows for comfortable viewing of exhibitions. This generous layout is a key feature that sets it apart, enabling patrons to appreciate each piece without feeling overwhelmed. The traditional setting combined with contemporary art creates an interesting juxtaposition, highlighting the evolution of Myanmar's artistic expression.
Lokanat Galleries plays a crucial role in promoting art and culture in Yangon. Its enduring presence signifies its importance to the community and its dedication to fostering artistic talent. For anyone interested in the Myanmar art scene, a visit here is considered essential for understanding its roots and current trends.
Navigating Yangon's Art Scene
When visiting, it's advisable to check the gallery's social media or website for current exhibition schedules. This ensures you don't miss out on specific shows that might align with your interests. The diversity of art displayed means there's often something new and exciting to discover with each visit, from paintings and sculptures to mixed-media installations.
Beyond Lokanat, Yangon offers other galleries and art spaces. However, Lokanat's status as the oldest and its distinctive traditional setting make it a unique starting point for understanding the city's artistic landscape. It provides a valuable context for appreciating the broader spectrum of art being produced in Myanmar today.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit