Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
9 November 2014

Nay Pyi Taw (“Royal Capital” in English) has been the administrative capital of the Union of Myanmar since 2005, replacing Yangon. Located 391 kilometers from the former capital, it is the third largest city in the country comprising eight townships and has a population of more than one million.

One of the prominent landmarks is the City Hall where the Nay Pyi Taw Development Committee is headquartered. State occasions are held in the city hall wherein the country’s national anthem is played by the Nay Pyi Taw City Hall State Orchestra.

When strolling around the city, one will notice that the faces of most Burmese people are covered with thanaka, a yellowish paste applied in circular or irregular shapes. The fragrance is similar to sandalwood and it has a cooling and moisturizing effect on the skin. The people also believe that thanaka can cure acne, helps tighten skin and reduce wrinkles.

The paste is made by grinding the bark or wood of the Thanaka Tree in a circular motion on a flat wheystone (locally known as kyauk pin) with a small amount of water. This produces the yellowish paste that can be applied immediately on the skin. The thanaka paste, as well as the bark or wood, can be bought at any market in Nay Pyi Taw.

*  *  *