15 Facts About Myanmar Most People Get Wrong
Myanmar is home to 54.4M people across 676,578 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Jade.
Below are 15 facts about Myanmar, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Myanmar
A complete overview of Myanmar's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Myanmar produces 90% of the world's rubies and a large share of its jade.
Bagan has more than 3,500 Buddhist temples and pagodas on one plain.
Myanmar only switched to driving on the right in 1970, previously drove on the left.
The Irrawaddy dolphin is found only in Myanmar's rivers.
Myanmar is located in Southeast Asia, Asia, with its capital city in Naypyidaw.
The population of Myanmar is approximately 54.4M, spread across 676,578 km² of territory.
Myanmar has a population density of 80/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Myanmar has a coastline of 2,832 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Myanmar shares land borders with 5 countries: India, Bangladesh, China, Laos, Thailand.
The official language of Myanmar is Burmese.
Myanmar uses the Kyat (MMK) as its official currency.
Myanmar gained independence in 1948, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southeast Asia.
The total GDP of Myanmar is $65.1B, with a GDP per capita of $1,197, classifying it as a developing economy.
Myanmar has a tropical monsoon, dry season november–april climate, with the best time to visit being November–February.
Myanmar is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $2–5.
Myanmar produces over 90% of the world's jade and was historically the world's primary source of rubies. The ancient city of Bagan contains more than 3,500 Buddhist temples and pagodas, more sacred structures per square mile than almost anywhere on Earth.
🏆 Myanmar World Rankings
Myanmar holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Myanmar
Myanmar is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🛕 Bagan Temples
A vast plain of over 3,500 Buddhist pagodas dating from the 9th–13th century
✨ Shwedagon Pagoda
A 99m gold-plated pagoda in Yangon housing sacred relics, the holiest site in Myanmar
🚣 Inle Lake
A highland lake where fishermen row with one leg and villages float on the water
🏯 Mandalay Palace
The last royal palace of the Burmese kings, surrounded by a moat in the cultural capital
Frequently Asked Questions About Myanmar
What is Myanmar famous for?
Myanmar produces over 90% of the world's jade and was historically the world's primary source of rubies. The ancient city of Bagan contains more than 3,500 Buddhist temples and pagodas, more sacred structures per square mile than almost anywhere on Earth.
What is the capital of Myanmar?
The capital of Myanmar is Naypyidaw.
What is the population of Myanmar?
Myanmar has a population of approximately 54.4M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Myanmar?
The official language of Myanmar is Burmese.
When did Myanmar become an independent country?
Myanmar gained independence in 1948.
What currency does Myanmar use?
Myanmar uses the Kyat (MMK).
What is the GDP of Myanmar?
Myanmar has a GDP of $65.1B, with a GDP per capita of $1,197.
Where is Myanmar located?
Myanmar is located in Southeast Asia, Asia.
Is Myanmar safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Myanmar vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Myanmar?
Myanmar produces 90% of the world's rubies and a large share of its jade. Bagan has more than 3,500 Buddhist temples and pagodas on one plain. Myanmar only switched to driving on the right in 1970, previously drove on the left.
What are some interesting facts about Myanmar?
Bagan has more than 3,500 Buddhist temples and pagodas on one plain. Myanmar only switched to driving on the right in 1970, previously drove on the left. The Irrawaddy dolphin is found only in Myanmar's rivers.
Myanmar facts: what should I know?
Myanmar is a country in Southeast Asia with a population of 54.4M. Its capital is Naypyidaw and its official language is Burmese. Myanmar produces 90% of the world's rubies and a large share of its jade.
Explore More About Myanmar
Want to explore another country? Generate a random country and discover somewhere new.