General Information
We enclose this general information sheet which allows you to better your future trip in Myanmar.
Geopolitical Location
The Republic of the Union of Myanmar is strategically positioned at the intersection of East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. It is the second largest country in terms of territorial size among the ASEAN Ten (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), which includes Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. Among the peninsular ASEAN countries—Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar— it is the largest.
Myanmar spans 676,577 square kilometres (261,391 square miles), roughly the combined size of the United Kingdom and France. Geographically, it is a naturally integrated entity. Myanmar is bordered by India to the west and China to the east, two of the world’s most populous and largest countries. It shares additional borders with Bangladesh to the northwest, Laos and Thailand to the southeast, and is flanked by the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal to the south and southwest.
The country’s geography follows a north-to-south pattern, featuring mountains, hill ranges, highlands, streams, rivers, lakes, valleys, plains, deltas, and islands. Major mountain ranges and rivers, such as the Ayeyarwaddy River (with its longest tributary, the Chindwin River), the Thanlwin, the Sittaung, and the Kaladan, originate from the Himalayan system and run predominantly north to south. These rivers provide natural communication channels and essential water supplies for agriculture. Natural lakes like Indawgyi and Inle, the largest and second largest respectively, are scattered throughout the country, and numerous islands and archipelagos enhance Myanmar’s extensive coastline.
The climate varies significantly from north to south: alpine in the mountainous north, temperate in the highlands, dry and arid in the central regions, and humid and wet in the deltaic and coastal areas. Rainfall also varies widely, from nearly 200 inches in some areas to less than 40 inches in others, though there is underground water available throughout the country.
Myanmar is rich in biodiversity, making it a haven for naturalists. Rare species of flora and fauna are found across its land and waters. Over 50 percent of the country remains covered in natural forests, supplying teak and other timbers, bamboo, rattan, thatch, and palm for construction. Myanmar’s geology also provides precious, semi-precious, and industrial stones and minerals, as well as fossil fuels like coal, gas, and petroleum. Additionally, the country’s water resources are harnessed for hydroelectric power, further showcasing its abundant natural gifts.
Population
As of recent estimates, Myanmar has a population of approximately 54 million people. The country exhibits a diverse demographic landscape characterized by a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, cultures, and languages.
Ethnic Diversity
Myanmar is home to over 135 distinct ethnic groups officially recognized by the government.
These are grouped into eight major national ethnic races:
1. Bamar
2. Kayin
3. Rakhine
4. Shan
5. Mon
6. Chin
7. Kachin
8. Karenni (Kayah)
The largest ethnic group is the Burman (or Bamar), who constitute about 68% of the population
and predominantly live in the central and coastal regions. Each ethnic group has its own unique
cultural practices, languages, and traditions.
Language
The official language of Myanmar is Burmese (Myanmar), spoken by the majority Burman population and used in government and education. Numerous other languages are spoken across the country, reflecting its ethnic diversity. These include Shan, Karen, Rakhine, Mon, and various dialects unique to different ethnic groups.
Religion
Buddhism is the predominant religion in Myanmar, with about 87% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism. There are also significant minorities practicing Christianity (predominantly among the Karen, Kachin, and Chin ethnic groups), Islam (mostly among the Indian and Rohingya communities), Hinduism, and animism.
Culture
Myanmar is situated at the crossroads of two of the world’s great civilizations—China and India—yet its culture is distinctly its own, blending influences from both with unique native traits. Buddhism plays a significant role in the daily lives of the Myanmar people, who have maintained traditions of close family ties, respect for elders, and reverence for Buddhism. Simple native dress is commonly worn, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Despite facing adversities, the people of Myanmar remain content and cheerful, known for their simple hospitality and friendliness
Population Distribution
Myanmar’s population distribution varies greatly between urban and rural areas. Approximately 30% of the population resides in urban areas, with the largest cities being Yangon (Rangoon), Mandalay, and Naypyidaw (the capital). The remaining 70% of the population lives in rural areas, engaged primarily in agriculture and traditional livelihoods.
Demographic Trends
The population growth rate in Myanmar is relatively moderate, with a slight decline in recent years due to factors such as urbanization, economic migration, and government policies. The country faces demographic challenges including an aging population, especially in rural areas, and a youth bulge in urban centers, leading to varying social and economic dynamics across regions.
Socioeconomic Indicators
– **Life Expectancy:** The average life expectancy in Myanmar is approximately 67 years. – **Literacy Rate:** The literacy rate is around 75%, with disparities between urban and rural areas, as well as among different ethnic groups.
– **Urbanization:** Urbanization is steadily increasing, driven by economic opportunities in cities and government initiatives to develop urban infrastructure.
Key Facts
Official Name
Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Capital City
Naypyitaw ( since 2004 )
Business Centre
Yangon ( Rangoon ) the former capital
Major cities
Mandalay,Bagan,Mawlamyaing, Bago
Area
676,578 sq-km,
Climate Tropical
Monsoon
Population
54.18 million ( 2024 )
Life Expectancy Average
65 (men 64, women 68)
Ethnic composition Bamar ( 68.78% )
Kayin ( 6.69% )
Rakhine ( 4.61% )
Shan ( 4.51% )
Language
Myanmar ( Burmese )
Adult Literacy 83%
Religion
Buddhist 88.7%
Christian 6.3%
Islam 2.3%
Hinduism 0.5%
Calendar Myanmar uses two
calendars:
(1) Gregorian
(2) Buddhist
Currency
Kyat
( Kyat denominations: 50,100,200,500,1000,5000 and 10000)
Electricy 230 volts, 50 Hz
Internet domain : .mm
Telephone : + 95
Time Zone GMT : +6:3