Travel to Myanmar

Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, is a country in mainland Southeast Asia bordered by China, Laos, Thailand, India, and Bangladesh, with coastlines along the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. Known historically as Burma, it is the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and home to more than 135 recognized ethnic groups. Its diverse geography, Buddhist culture, and complex political landscape shape its regional and global importance.

The Bamar (Burman) are the majority group, alongside ethnic nationalities such as the Shan, Karen, Rakhine, Mon, Chin, Kachin, and Kayah. Theravada Buddhism is practiced by nearly 90 percent of the population and deeply influences national traditions, from daily rituals to monumental architecture such as Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. Festivals like Thingyan (the New Year water festival) and the Taunggyi hot-air-balloon festival reflect the blend of spiritual and communal life.

Myanmar gained independence from United Kingdom in 1948. Civilian governments have alternated with long periods of military rule, most recently after the armed forces seized power in 2021, detaining elected leaders including Aung San Suu Kyi. The country faces persistent ethnic conflicts and widespread displacement but remains strategically significant at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia.