Experience Real Myanmar – Your Guide to This Unexplored Southeast Asian Country
Myanmar is a relatively untouched country with fascinating culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals. In recent years, Myanmar is slowly opening up to tourism – there is so much to discover and learn about this country. With its majestic golden stupas and Buddhist temples, this off-the-beaten-track country has plenty more to explore and discover. Surrounded by China, Laos, Bangladesh, India, and Thailand, Myanmar had been in isolation for decades.
If you are keen to discover this unexplored Southeast Asian destination, now is the right time to go. Threeland Travel offers you expertly designed Myanmar tour packages at affordable prices.
Here are some insights about this stunning country.
Discover Myanmar
Myanmar was earlier known as Burma. In 2012, it opened its borders and uncovered an Asian land in its raw, purest form. Myanmar is a land of diverse scenery, from serene beaches to towering mountains, with winding rivers and lush forests in between. It is home to many ethnic groups, each with their unique traditions. As it was cut off from much of the world, Myanmar has preserved its rich cultural heritage. You will be awe-struck by pagodas and golden temples in the countryside and the warm hospitality of the Myanmar people. The country has a complex and lengthy history featuring colonial rule, ancient kingdoms, and recent political changes. Today Myanmar is working on raising its economy while balancing its traditions with innovation.
From tranquil villages to bustling cities, Myanmar has a blend of new and old. Its diverse landscapes, stretching from lush jungles to unspoiled beaches, creates the perfect setting for adventure and exploration. As Myanmar continues to open up, it remains a place of wonder and discovery for those who visit.
- Capital of Myanmar - Naypyidaw
- Official currency of Myanmar - Myanmar kyat
- Language spoken in Myanmar - Burmese
- Time Zone - UTC +6:30
A Historical Overview of Myanmar
The history of Myanmar spans thousands of years. Its intense and rich history stretches back to the Pyu Dynasty, which thrived for over 1000 years from 200 BC to 900 AD. They were followed by the Bagan Kingdom, which unified the region and is known for its thousands of temples. In the 11th century- the first Myanmar Empire was set up by King Anawrahta in Bagan. This civilization ruled for over 200 years, and then in the 16th century it was taken over by King Bayinnaung. Over the centuries, Myanmar experienced invasions and wars, including the rise of the British in the 19th century.
By 1885, the British had fully colonized the country, naming it Burma. During World War II, Japan controlled Myanmar from 1942 to 1945. In 1948, the country gained independence from British rule. It went through political changes, including military rule, for many years. In 1989, its name officially changed from Burma to Myanmar. Each phase of its history has left an impact, making the country a fascinating place to explore.
Geography and Climate
Myanmar shares borders with China in the north, India and Bangladesh in the west, Thailand and Laos in the east, and the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea in the south. It spans over 676 thousand sq km. Myanmar is largely divided into two regions – the Interior Region – Upper Myanmar, and the Coastal Region – Lower Myanmar. The northern region of the country is mountainous, while the rest of it is covered by many rivers across the land. The northern region has the highest mountains, with an elevation of 5881 meters. The delta and the interior plains have rich, fertile soil – best for paddy fields. These paddy fields play a vital role in Myanmar's economy. The southwest and northwest coasts are dotted with beautiful beaches and islands. The weather is cool at higher elevations.
The Ideal Time to Visit Myanmar
You can travel to Myanmar all through the year, but the perfect period to visit is the cool season. It spans from November to February with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. Being the best time to travel, this season is also a high tourist season. Plan your Myanmar Tour in advance. March to May is the hot season with temperatures exceeding 40°C. If you travel during the hot season, you will avoid large crowds of tourists and get better prices on transportation and accommodations, as things are cheaper then. The monsoon season runs from June to October. While rainfall is regular, it typically comes in short bursts. Some areas may be difficult to explore due to flooding, but the landscapes are lush and green. For budget travelers, the shoulder seasons in October and March will offer a good balance of lower prices and decent weather.
Must-See Places and Must-Experience Activities
Myanmar has many activities and places to explore. Discover the rich culture and history of Myanmar at places like pagodas and ancient temples. Nature lovers will enjoy beautiful landscapes, from serene lakes to green mountains. The busy markets, delicious food, and lively arts scene provide enjoyable experiences everywhere. Whether you are looking for spiritual growth, adventure, or a chance to see a different way of life, Myanmar has many opportunities for unforgettable experiences and cultural connections.
A Few of the Must-See Places
A Few of the Must-Do Experiences
- Visit Shwedagon or Greater Dragon Pagoda.
- Explore the calm waters of the Mergui Archipelago.
- Visit the captivating Inle Lake.
- Explore the railway bazaar in Mandalay.
- Relax on the Ngapali beach.
Culture and People
The culture of Myanmar mixes influences from Buddhism, the Bamar people - the largest ethnic group in Myanmar, and nearby countries like India, China, and Thailand. You can see these influences in many parts of its culture, including language, food, music, dance, and theater. Buddhism is crucial in their culture and is often mixed with ideas about the universe, Hindu stories, and the worship of Nats - spirits of the dead. This mix of beliefs influences many everyday activities in Myanmar. The country has thousands of Buddha statues, and each one has its own special charm. Pagodas and temples are the mains in Burmese culture, especially in traditional villages. Monks are highly respected, and people show their respect by kneeling. Along with its languages, culture, and historical sites, the traditional clothing of Myanmar is also a highlight. Men in Myanmar wear a traditional costume called Longgyi, a tight sarong with a shirt. Women wear a similar outfit, called Taipon and Thummy. Locals mostly wear sandals but put on shoes when they wear Western-style clothes.
Cuisine of Myanmar
The cuisine of Myanmar is heavily influenced by Thai, Chinese, and Indian flavors. It often includes soups, curries, vegetables, and steamed rice. Their food is mildly spicy. Some side dishes include pickled vegetables and pickles, along with shrimp paste and fish sauce. Mohinga – the famous national dish, is made of rice noodles and crushed chickpeas in fish soup. Most people in the country eat with their fingers, although some may use chopsticks and other cutlery. Myanmar has a unique food culture with two main meals, at 0900 hours and 1700 hours, with a light lunch in between. They believe fish, shrimp, and vegetables are vital for a good meal. They mostly avoid beef. Street stalls are found everywhere, and they often sell tasty, fresh food like noodles, pancakes, salads, and fried tofu.
Fun Facts About Myanmar
- In Myanmar - people do not have family or last names.
- The Burmese lunar calendar has 28 days in each month.
- In Myanmar, the name of the child is chosen based on the day of the week they were born. The name must include letters from that day's group. Each day has its own group of letters, and Wednesday is divided into two parts – based on astrology.
- There are shrines around pagodas for each of the eight days. It is good to worship at the shrine that matches the day you were born.
- Festivals are celebrated depending on the position of the moon, usually on full moon days. It is a great time to plan your trip to Myanmar.
- The Burmese people strongly believe in spirits – known as Nats.
- Pagodas and temples are built to honor Buddha. They usually do not have interiors. They are considered cosmic symbols that help people and improve the good karma of the donor for a better rebirth and enlightenment. This is why there are thousands of them throughout the country.
- Every house in Myanmar has a family shrine for Lord Buddha and household Nats.
Conclusion
Whether you want to see the beautiful scenery of this untouched country or experience its lively culture, Myanmar has a unique adventure for every traveler. Our carefully planned Myanmar tour packages will take you to ancient temples, tasty local food, and beautiful scenery, helping you enjoy the best of this beautiful country. At Threeland Travel, our expert team is dedicated to making your trip extraordinary, offering personalized services and local tips throughout your journey. Do not miss the chance to explore the hidden treasures and lively traditions of Myanmar. Reach out to our experts at [email protected], and let us create the perfect Myanmar tour package just for you!
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