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THE PEOPLE
The term Myanmar embraces over 135 ethnic groups living together and speaking their own dialects. The major ethnic races are Kachin, Kayar, Kayin , Chin, Mon, Myanmar, Rakhing and Shan live seven Sates and seven Divisions in Myanmar.
POPULATION
Myanmar has a population of over 52 millions and the Bamars make about 70%. Yangon ,the commercial city and gateway to Myanmar, has a population of nearly 6 million.
RILIGION
Over 89.30% of Myanmar embrace Tharavada Buddhism and the rest are Christians (5.60%) ,Muslims(3.80%), Hindus (0.5%) and Animists(0.2%).
LANGUAGE
The official language is Myanmar, the spoken language differs slightly from their own languages. English is spoken by many and widely understood. Some Myanmar speak French, German and Mandarin.
CULTURE
Myanmar lies between two great civilizations, that of Indian China, but it has developed its own distinctive culture. Buddhism has a great influence on the daily lives of the Myanmar people. The people have preserved the traditions of the close family ties, respect for elders and simple native dress. While tolerance and contentment are the characteristics of the people. Myanmar hospitality is legendary.
FESTIVALS
Myanmar is the land of Festivals; a festival for every month of the year. Majority of the festivals are cultural and religious. Most are celebrations such as Ananda Pagoda festival, Thingyun(water festival)and Phaungdaw Oo pagoda festival, etc offer a perfect chance to join the locals as they celebrate their festivals throughout the year. Contact us for the latest festival calendar.
BUSINESS HOURS
Government offices are open at 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and Banks are open at 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. through Monday to Friday.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Area |
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676577 sq km (about the size of United Kingdom and France combined) |
Population |
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55 million |
Capital |
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Yangon (Changed from Rangoon in 1989) |
Language |
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Myanmar (English is widely used) |
Local Time |
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GMT+6.30 hours |
Security |
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Safe (travel with locals) |
Photography & Video |
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Myanmar is a very photogenic country. Recommended to bring lots of film or video tapes with you. |
Electricity |
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220~240 V, 50Hz. |
Telecommunications
(Country Code - 95) |
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IDD Telephone & Fax facilities are available at most hotels in Myanmar. E-mail facilities are now available at some hotels and companies in Yangon and Mandalay. |
Drinking Water |
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Recommended to drink only bottled Mineral Water. |
Food |
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Many good restaurants in Yangon. Myanmar food and Chinese food are popular throughout the country. Myanmar food is influenced by the Indian and Chinese cuisines. European food is available in most tourist centers and hotels. Eating at street stands is not recommended. |
Hotels |
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Many hotels in Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Inle. The range of hotel quality extends from local guest houses to 5 star accommodations. |
Currency |
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FIT (Foreign Independent Travelers) are required to exchange US$200 for FEC (Foreign Exchange Certificate) on arrival at the airport. FEC can be changed into Myanmar kyats at markets of Authorized Money Changers.
1 US$ = 1 FEC
FEC notes: 1, 5, 10, 20
Kyat notes: 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 45, 50, 90, 100, 200, 500, 1000
Payments can be made in FEC (US$) for Trains, Flight, Hotels, some Restaurants and Entrance Fees. |
Religion |
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Over 85% of the Myanmar People embrace Theravada Buddhism. Others follow Christianity, Islam, Hinduism or Animism. |
Climate |
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Myanmar has tropical weather with three seasons. The Dry Season runs from mid-February to mid-May. The Rainy Season which comes with the South-West Monsoon lasts from mid-May to mid-October. The Cold Season from November to February. But dry zones like Mandalay and Bagan do not get much rain even in the rainy season. The best time to visit Myanmar is from October to February when the temperature is moderate and dry. In summer, the temperature rises to about 40 Degrees Celsius with much sunshine. |
Clothing |
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Light cotton clothing is most appropriate, especially for the long hot summer months. Long sleeve sweaters, light jackets are suitable in Hill stations like Pyin Oo Lwin. Sandals are suitable. Remember to take off your shoes and socks before entering into temples and pagodas. Most Myanmar people appreciate the decent dress in the precinct of religious buildings. Ladies should not wear short or braless shirt or sleeveless blouses socks/stockings must be removed when entering the precincts of pagodas and monasteries. |
What to Bring |
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Generally, goods can be bought at reasonable prices in Myanmar. However, the following things should be brought with you.
1. Flash Light
2. Insect Spray
3. Sun Cream
4. Sunglasses
5. Cameras with plenty of films
6. Rubber sandals |
Shopping |
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Many different arts, crafts and antiques are available throughout Myanmar. Hand-Crafted Lacquerware, mostly produced in Bagan, comes in all shapes and sizes. Embroidered Cottons and Wood Carvings also make good souvenirs. Myanmar is, of course, renowned for its precious stones, particularly rubies. You should only buy from government licensed shops which must issue an official receipt. |
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