Also known as Burma, Myanmar is a South East Asian nation bound by Tibet in the north, by Laos, China and Thailand in the east, on the south by the Bay of Bengal and to the west by India and Bangladesh. The Irrawaddy River is the country's most dominant natural feature as well as a string of mountains in the north which rise as high as 5967 metres, with Hkakabo Razi being the highest peak in South East Asia.
Myanmar has a distinct culture with influences from its diverse ethnic make-up, Buddhism, British colonialism and being a key historical trade route between China, Southeast Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. Much of its indigenous culture is still evidenced today with its ethnic minorities and hill tribes, particularly in the remote mountainous regions lining its international borders. The country's name has progressed from Burma, which is linked to just one of the ethnic groups, to Myanmar to satisfy and all encompassing title. There are 135 different ethnic groups that make up the population. Buddhism strongly influences daily life and this is demonstrated by the number of pagodas and monasteries strewn throughout the country. The people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. The language spoken is predominantly Myanmar (Bamar) while ethnic minorities speak Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Shan and another 135 hill-tribe dialects. Being once a British colony English is also widely spoken.
Myanmar's history began with three empires but during the 3rd empire was unified into one. The three great kings who ruled the original empires are well-known in Myanmar history for their bravery and leadership. In 1885, King Thibaw, Queen Supaya Latt and the royal family were taken to Ratanagiri in India and Myanmar fell under the British Rule. The country remained under the British Rule until 1948. The military has dominated government since General Ne Win led a coup in 1962 which toppled the civilian government to form a socialist structure. From the beginning the people were against the military rule. In 1990, the government held free elections which were won by Aung San Suu Kyi and her party The National League for Democracy, yet the ruling party refused to step down. Her struggle has continued for over a decade leading to long periods of house arrest, but in November 2010 Aung San Suu Kyi was released and spoke out about the importance of tourism to the country's future.