Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, is the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia. It shares borders with Thailand, Laos, China, India, and Bangladesh, and has a coastline on the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The country's capital is Naypyidaw, while its largest city is Yangon (formerly Rangoon). Myanmar has a diverse population of approximately 55 million people, with a significant portion living in rural areas. The country is known for its ethnic diversity, including Burmans, Shans, Karens, Rakhines, Mons, Chins, and Kachins. Buddhism is the major religion, but Christianity and Islam are also practiced.
Myanmar possesses abundant natural resources and a strategic location at the crossroads of Asia. Key attractions include the Shwedagon Paya in Yangon, the ancient temples of Bagan, Inle Lake, and Mandalay. However, since February 2021, Myanmar has been in a protracted crisis following a military coup that ousted the democratically elected government. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a political, economic, and humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and leading to widespread human rights abuses. As of late January 2026, the military government controlled only 21% of the country's territory, while rebel forces held 42%. Despite the turmoil, Myanmar's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty continue to offer glimpses of hope amid the crisis.
