Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a country in South East Asia that isn’t yet firmly established on the tourist trail like its neighbors: Thailand, India and Laos. Having only opened up to tourists in the last 5 years there is still a lot to learn and discover about this mysterious country. The massive increase in visitors since sanctions were lifted in 2012 has stretched Myanmar’s tourist infrastructure to the limit.
Video Credits: Dyl Alex
‘This is Burma’, wrote Rudyard Kipling. ‘It will be quite unlike any land you know about.’ Amazingly, over a century later, Myanmar retains the power to surprise and delight even the most jaded of travelers. Be dazzled by the ‘winking wonder’ of Shwedagon Paya. Contemplate the 4000 sacred stupas scattered across the plains of Bagan. Stare in disbelief at the Golden Rock at Mt Kyaiktiyo, teetering impossibly on the edge of a chasm. These are all important Buddhist sights in a country where pious monks are more revered than rock stars. There are oodles of ancient temples here too, with places like Bagan coming up trumps with its carved stupas and old Hindu motifs, not to mention fascinating Buddhist relics and some seriously sun-kissed beaches lining the Bay of Bengal. Myanmar is one of the mysterious country in South East Asia and because of its cultural and geographical diversity has retained much of its historic and unique character. With its legendary kingdoms, gorgeous landscapes, diverse people and fine examples of architectural and archaeological marvels, how could it not? These days, having re-joined the global community after 50 years of infamy at the hands of a ruling military junta, the Golden Land finds itself jumping onto an ever increasing number of traveler’s bucket lists. Leave the ordinary behind and travel to this land now emerging from ancient times and finding its place in the hearts of travelers.
