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MYANMAR - A WONDERFUL LAND
Myanmar is the name
which has long been used by its people to describe their homeland which
the British called Burma. Many of the traditional features, physical and
cultural, have been preserved compared to other Asian countries.
Myanmar is a captivating travel destination - for its diversity of sightseeing, the wealth of cultural and scenic attractions it can offer and, above all, for the warmth and friendliness of its charming people.
Myanmar has a population of some 47 million, and is a union of many different ethnic groups, 135 of them, each with its own language and traditions. The majority are Bamars (Burmese) which make up about 66% of the population with other major groups such as Chins, Kachins, Shans, Kayins, Kayars, Mons and Rakhines. 85% of the people are Buddhist and deeply religious.
With a land area of 677,000 sq km, Myanmar is the largest country in southeast Asia. It shares borders with Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand. It stretches over 2,000 km north to south and over 920 km from east to west, it has a coastline of over 2,500 km.
Early civilisation
in Myanmar dates back to the 5th century, and reached its peak of power
and creativity in the 11 - 15 th centuries. The country is blessed by
nature with great geophysical diversity, with scenery varying from the
vast central agricultural plains, to snow capped mountains in the far
north, the Shan states features cool and verdant hills, while the long
coastline offers golden beaches still to be opened up for tourism. From
north to south flows the majestic Ayeyarwaddy (formerly known as
Irrawaddy), one of the worlds great rivers and source of agricultural
wealth to millions. Potentially, Myanmar is one of regions richest
economies with every type of natural resource. Tourism is seen as being
one of the greatest opportunities for development, and as a major foreign
exchange earner. Much of the country’s attraction is in its history and
artistic culture, with its own very special local characteristics.
The people have
preserved traditional values, and are deeply devout in their religion,
with a close knit family system, and respect for elders still powerfully
observed. Bamar (Burmese) are fun loving and festivals form the centre of
Myanmar social life, with each month having its own festive occasion.
Bamars (Burmese) are also known for their sense of hospitality and
friendliness to visitors.
