· MM

Tanintharyi

Tanintharyi, Burma

Tanintharyi, located in the southernmost region of Myanmar (formerly Burma), is an enchanting destination that offers a blend of pristine natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. Nestled between the Andaman …

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Tanintharyi.

Currency

K | MMK | Myanmar Kyat

Population

nan

Languages

Burmese, Burmese, Karen, Thai

Average weather

Tanintharyi

Jan

31°20°

Feb

32°21°

Mar

33°23°

Apr

34°24°

May

32°24°

Jun

30°24°

Jul

29°24°

Aug

29°24°

Sep

29°24°

Oct

30°23°

Nov

31°22°

Dec

31°21°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tanintharyi.

What people love

Tanintharyi, located in the southern part of Myanmar (Burma), is a region known for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Tanintharyi:

Natural Beauty and Biodiversity: Tanintharyi is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and the Myeik Archipelago. The region is home to a variety of wildlife and marine life, making it a great destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
Myeik Archipelago: This group of over 800 islands offers some of the most beautiful and isolated beaches in Southeast Asia. The archipelago is a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and exploring untouched marine environments, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species.
Cultural Diversity: The region is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Karen, Mon, and Tavoyan people. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the local cultures, traditions, and ways of life, which are distinct from the rest of Myanmar.
Historical Significance: Tanintharyi has a rich history, with influences from various cultures over the centuries, including Thai, British, and Burmese. Historical sites, colonial architecture, and traditional settlements can be explored, providing insight into the region's past.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities: The region offers numerous opportunities for adventure enthusiasts, including trekking in the lush forests, exploring caves, and engaging in water sports around the islands.
Less Crowded: Compared to other tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, Tanintharyi is relatively less crowded, offering a more tranquil and relaxed travel experience. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots.
Local Cuisine: Tanintharyi offers a unique culinary experience with seafood being a staple due to its coastal location. Travelers can enjoy fresh and delicious local dishes that are distinct to the region.

Overall, Tanintharyi is a destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, making it an attractive option for travelers looking to explore less conventional and more serene parts of Myanmar.

What to know

Traveling to Tanintharyi, a region in Myanmar (Burma), can be an intriguing experience given its natural beauty and cultural significance. However, there are several challenges and cons to consider:

Political and Social Instability: Myanmar has been experiencing political instability, particularly following the military coup in February 2021. This has led to civil unrest and conflicts in various regions, and travelers might face safety risks.
Limited Infrastructure: Tanintharyi is not as developed in terms of infrastructure compared to other regions. Roads, healthcare facilities, and accommodations might not meet international standards, which can be challenging for travelers used to certain levels of comfort and convenience.
Restricted Areas: Some areas in Myanmar, including parts of Tanintharyi, may have travel restrictions imposed by the government. It's important to check with local authorities or travel advisories for the latest information.
Communication Barriers: English may not be widely spoken, which can pose challenges in communication, especially in rural or remote areas.
Health Concerns: There may be health risks such as malaria or dengue fever in certain areas. Travelers should take necessary precautions and ensure they have appropriate vaccinations and medical supplies.
Limited Tourism Services: The tourism industry in Tanintharyi is not as developed as in other Southeast Asian destinations. There might be a lack of tour operators, guides, and other services that cater to tourists.
Environmental Concerns: As an area rich in biodiversity, there might be environmental degradation issues due to development projects or tourism activities, which can impact the natural beauty of the region.

Before traveling, it's advisable to thoroughly research current conditions, consult travel advisories, and plan accordingly to mitigate these challenges.

Tanintharyi, historically known as Tenasserim, is a region in the southern part of Myanmar (Burma). It has a rich and diverse history influenced by its strategic location along the coastline of the Andaman Sea and its proximity to Thailand.

Early History

The region of Tanintharyi has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of early settlements and trade routes. Its location made it an important area for maritime trade between the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and China. The Mon people, one of the early settlers in the region, established their presence, and the area became part of various Mon kingdoms.

Pagan and Post-Pagan Period

During the Pagan Empire (9th to 13th centuries), Tanintharyi was under the influence of the Burmese kingdom. However, after the fall of Pagan, the region came under the control of the Mon kingdoms again, specifically the Martaban Kingdom, in the 13th century.

Ayutthaya Influence

From the 14th to the 16th century, Tanintharyi was frequently contested by the Burmese and the Siamese (Thai) kingdoms. The Ayutthaya Kingdom of Siam exerted influence over the region, using it as a buffer zone against Burmese advances.

Toungoo and Konbaung Dynasties

In the 16th century, the Toungoo Dynasty, under King Bayinnaung, expanded its territory to include Tanintharyi. The region remained a part of successive Burmese kingdoms, including the Konbaung Dynasty, until the British colonial period.

British Colonial Period

During the First Anglo-Burmese War (1824–1826), the British captured Tenasserim and it was ceded to British India under the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826. The British developed the region as part of their colonial administration, focusing on teak extraction and establishing rubber plantations. The capital was established in Moulmein (now Mawlamyine), north of present-day Tanintharyi Division.

Japanese Occupation

During World War II, the Japanese occupied Tanintharyi as part of their campaign in Burma. The region saw significant military activity and was a strategic point for the Japanese advance into India.

Post-Independence Era

After Burma gained independence in 1948, Tanintharyi became part of the newly independent country. The region has experienced periods of ethnic insurgency and conflict, particularly involving the Karen and Mon ethnic groups seeking greater autonomy.

Modern Era

Today, Tanintharyi Region is known for its rich biodiversity, including the Myeik Archipelago, which is home to the Moken or "Sea Gypsies." The region's economy is largely based on agriculture, fishing, and increasingly, tourism. Dawei, the capital of Tanintharyi Region, is a focal point for development projects, including the planned Dawei Deep Sea Port and Special Economic Zone.

Notable Landmarks

Myeik Archipelago: A group of over 800 islands known for their natural beauty and biodiversity.
Dawei: The capital city, known for its colonial-era buildings and nearby pristine beaches.
Tanintharyi Nature Reserve: A protected area aiming to preserve the region's diverse wildlife and ecosystems.

Historical Figures

King Bayinnaung: A prominent ruler of the Toungoo Dynasty who conquered Tanintharyi in the 16th century.

Overall, Tanintharyi's history is marked by its strategic importance, rich cultural heritage, and ongoing economic development.