With its ancient temples, tranquil lakes and colonial architecture, Myanmar is a magnet for a fresh wave of visitors

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is bordered by Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand. The country’s capital, Naypyidaw, sits 32km north of Yangon. Plagued with political turmoil for many years, the country opened a new chapter with the transfer of power from the military to the first civil government, following elections in 2010. Prominent human rights activist Aung San Suu Kyi now sits in parliament instead of under house arrest.

Myanmar is welcoming a new era in tourism as visitors from all over the world have started to descend on her shores to discover previously hidden beauty. The ancient temples of Bagan, mysterious Mandalay and tranquil Inle Lake are some of the attractions waiting to be explored. Classic colonial buildings stand next to Buddhist stupas. For many, Myanmar is the Asia of an earlier time – quieter, less developed yet charming and beautiful.