Myanmar

Myanmar borders India, China, Laos, Thailand, and the Bay of Bengal. The Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River begins in the far north and flows to a wide delta of rice fields, mangroves, and fishing villages. Mountain ranges such as the Chin Hills and Shan Plateau ring the central plain, volcanic lakes dot the countryside, and the southern Tanintharyi coast shelters coral reefs and teak forests. Monsoon rains arrive from May to October, followed by a cooler dry season.

The country has undergone decades of military rule. After a brief period of civilian administration, the armed forces regained control in 2021 through the State Administration Council. National ministries oversee states, regions, and self-administered zones, while daily services such as markets, clinics, and schools are often run by local administrators and community groups. Conflicts still affect Kachin, Rakhine, and other areas where many ethnic groups live.

Myanmar's history includes Pyu city-states, the Bagan Kingdom, and later Konbaung rulers. Britain colonized the territory in the 1800s, and independence arrived in 1948. The country joined the Non-Aligned Movement and ASEAN but has faced sanctions and reduced investment during times of unrest. Famous landmarks include Bagan's temples, Mandalay's palaces, and the golden Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.

The economy relies on agriculture, natural gas, hydropower, and gem mining. Farmers plant rice, beans, sesame, and tea, and the Irrawaddy Delta produces shrimp and fish. The country exports jade and rubies from Kachin State and oil and gas from offshore fields. Tourism once brought visitors to Inle Lake and Bagan, but the pandemic and political uncertainty have reduced arrivals.

Culture blends Theravada Buddhism with indigenous beliefs. Monks in saffron robes collect alms each morning, families celebrate Thingyan water festival as the new year, and artisans craft lacquerware, puppets, and longyi cloth. Meals often include mohinga fish noodle soup, curries, pickled tea leaf salad, and tropical fruit. Despite challenges, communities gather for pagoda festivals, charity drives, and music performances that reinforce shared traditions.