Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a land of myth and mystery, where ancient temples rise from misty plains and the Irrawaddy River meanders through fertile valleys like a silver thread in a tapestry of green. With its rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, this Southeast Asian nation has long been a crossroads of history, where the echoes of colonial grandeur mingle with the whispers of crimson-robed Buddhist monks.
The country's natural beauty is as diverse as its people, from the emerald forests of the Shan Hills to the pristine shores of the Andaman Sea. But beneath the surface of its serene landscapes, Myanmar's recent history tells a story of resilience amid turmoil, as it navigates the complex path from dictatorship to democracy. It is a place where past and present intertwine, creating a unique narrative that continues to captivate the world.
Tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower humidity during winter
Burman (Bamar) 68%, Shan 9%, Karen 7%, Rakhine 4%, Chinese 3%, Indian 2%, Mon 2%, other 5%
It is impolite to sit on a chair with one's legs crossed, especially for women.
Mohinga — a fish and rice noodle soup enriched with a variety of ingredients either added to the soup or used as a dressing or garnish
Prior to COVID-19 and the February 2021 military coup, massive declines in poverty, rapid economic growth, and improving social welfare; underdevelopment, climate change, and unequal investment threaten progress and sustainability planning; since coup, foreign assistance has ceased from most funding sources