Myanmar Explorer

Months	Day Temp (°C)	Day Temp (°F)	Hours of sun / day	Rainy days / month
Jan	29	83	8	0
Feb	31	87	8	0
Mar	34	93	8	0
Apr	35	95	10	2
May	33	91	8	15
Jun	32	89	6	25
Jul	31	88	5	27
Aug	31	88	5	26
Sep	31	88	5	21
Oct	30	87	6	11
Nov	30	87	7	3
Dec	29	83	8	1

Historical Background

Early civilization in Myanmar dates back to the 1st century with archaeological evidences of the Pyu Kingdoms of Thayekhittaya ( Sri Ksetra ), Beithano ( Visno ) and Hanlin.
The First Myanmar Empire was founded in early 11th century by King Anawrahta who unified the country through his strong leadership and intellect. The Empire with its capital in Bagan lasted until the end of 13th century with the invasion of the Mongols. The Second Myanmar Empire with its capital in Bago was founded in mid - 16th century by King Bayinnaung. The Third and the last Myanmar Empire was founded by King Alaungpaya in 1752. In the 19th century, during the peak period of colonialism, Myanmar was annexed in three stages by the British after three Anglo-Myanmar Wars in 1825, 1852 and 1885. During the Second World War, Myanmar was occupied by the Japanese for nearly three years until the Allied Forces' reoccupation in 1945. Myanmar became a sovereign independent state on January 4, 1948.

The People

Myanmar is a union of 135 ethnic groups with their own languages and dialects. The major races are the Bamar, the Chin, the Kachin, the Shan, the Kayah, the Kayin, the Mon and the Rakhine. The name Myanmar embraces all the ethnic groups. The population of Myanmar is 52 millions with the Bamar, the majority race, making up about 70 percent.
 

Religion

Predominantly a Buddhist country with 80 percent of the people embracing Theravada Buddhism. There are also Christians, Hindus and Muslims.
 

Culture

Myanmar lies between two great civilizations, India and 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 close family ties, respect for elders and simple native dress. While tolerance and contentment are the characteristics of the people, Myanmar hospitality is legendary.
 

Language

The official languages is Bamar. English is widely spoken and understood.
 

Economy

Agriculture remains the main sector of the economy. Exporting Timbers, Natural Gas, Gems are another main sectors of economy in Myanmar.
 

Currency

Myanmar Currency is Kyat which is available in notes of 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. No credit cards or travellers cheques are likely to be accepted in Myanmar. Visitors should bring enough US $ cash ( only new notes ) to fund their stay. There are no Cash Machine in Myanmar.
 

Time	:	Myanmar Standard Time is ( GMT + 6½ hr )
Electricity	:	230 Volts AC, 50 Hz
Dress	:	Cotton clothing and a light wrap of evenings during the cool season ( Nov to Feb ) are recommended, When visiting temples, pagodas or other places of religrous worship, it is necessary to dress modestly and to remove all footwears and socks.
Airport Tax	:	A departure tax of US $ 10 is collected when you check in for your international deperture flight.
Communication	:	IDD phone, Fax, E-mail and Internet are available at most hotels in Myanmar. International GSM rooming is not available in Myanmar.

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