As of August 2024, Myanmar citizens can travel to 45 countries visa free or visa on arrival, further enhancing their global mobility and fostering international connections. Myanmar, located in the western part of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts a rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
In 1989, the country’s official English name changed from the Union of Burma to the Union of Myanmar, a name it has held in the Burmese language as Myanma (or Mranma Prañ) since the 13th century. The capital city, known as Rangoon in English, also adopted its common Burmese name, Yangon, in 1989.
TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “As of August 2024, Myanmar citizens enjoy increased global mobility, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 45 countries. This boost in international connectivity complements Myanmar’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Additionally, the capital city adopted its Burmese name, Yangon, that same year. Myanmar’s geography, featuring complex northern mountain ranges and significant monsoon influences, shapes its distinct climate and hydrology, including key rivers like the Irrawaddy and Salween.“
Geography and Climate
The northern mountains of Myanmar feature a series of ranges forming a complex knot at Mount Hkakabo, marking the northeastern limit of the Indian-Australian Plate’s encroachment, which has been colliding with the southern edge of the Eurasian Plate for the past 50 million years. This region contains the sources of several of Asia’s great rivers, including the Irrawaddy and the Salween (Thanlwin).
Myanmar’s climate is influenced by its geographical position and relief, lying primarily under the influence of monsoon winds. The north-south alignment of ranges and valleys creates alternating zones of heavy and scanty precipitation, with most of the precipitation coming from the southwest monsoon.
Outbound Tourism and Travel Trends
Myanmar’s passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries, including Bolivia, Brunei, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Dominica, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Haiti. This accessibility encourages Myanmar’s residents to explore international destinations, fostering a growing trend in outbound tourism.
Myanmar’s outbound tourism has been expanding as more citizens seek to explore new destinations, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing interest in international travel. Popular outbound destinations for Myanmar travelers include nearby countries in Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, as well as destinations like Dubai and Japan.
This trend is supported by improved connectivity and a broader range of flight options from Myanmar’s major airports.