Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a country in mainland Southeast Asia. It lies between India, China, Thailand and Laos, and its long landscape of hills, plains and river valleys gives visitors a wide range of places to explore. The official name is the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
What draws visitors
Myanmar is best known for its ancient Buddhist temples and pagodas, which are found in great numbers across the country. Many visitors come to see them and to watch the rhythms of daily religious life, from early morning offerings to quiet moments of prayer at sacred sites. The country is also home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, each with its own languages, dress, music and traditions, so a journey here can feel varied from one region to the next.
The Irrawaddy River runs through the heart of the country and has long been central to travel and trade. A slow journey along its waters offers views of riverside villages, farmland and temple-studded banks, and it is one of the most distinctive ways to see the land.
Planning a visit
- Temples and pagodas: Expect to spend time at religious sites, and dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering shrines.
- Rivers and countryside: The Irrawaddy offers a gentler pace and a chance to see life along the water.
- Cultural life: Visits to local markets, festivals and villages reveal the variety of the country's peoples and customs.
Myanmar rewards those who are willing to travel at an unhurried pace and take an interest in its history and communities. Before going, check current travel advice, as conditions in parts of the country can change.
