Things To Do
in Putao
Putao is a remote hill town in northern Myanmar, cocooned by evergreen forests and the Hukawang/Hukawng river systems. It serves as a gateway to pristine forests, traditional Kachin culture, and rugged treks into the surrounding mountains. Access is seasonal, with infrastructure more reliable in the dry season and some routes closing during the monsoon.
The climate is cool and misty, offering dramatic mountain scenery and a sense of quiet away from Myanmar’s busier destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Putao, surrounded by the majestic snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. After checking into your accommodation, take some time to rest and acclimate to the serene atmosphere of this remote northern Burmese town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional dishes and local teas.
Embark on a guided walking tour of Putao, exploring the charming village and interacting with the locals. Visit the vibrant local market, where you can purchase handmade crafts and fresh produce. The stunning scenery and cultural exchanges provide a perfect introduction to this beautiful region.
As the sun sets, unwind at a cozy restaurant offering local cuisine. Savor a delicious dinner while enjoying the tranquil ambiance and mountain views. End your evening with a gentle stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Set out early for a scenic trek into the Namlang Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Guide yourself through lush forests, traversing small streams while observing local wildlife. Stop for mid-morning refreshments and take in the stunning mountain views.
Continue your hike towards the tribal villages nestled in the valley, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities. Engage with local villagers, learning about their traditions and daily lifestyles. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.
Return to Putao for some well-deserved relaxation. Dine at a local restaurant, tasting flavors unique to the Kachin people, perhaps trying 'Kachin sour soup'. Conclude your day by sharing stories with fellow travelers at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $1-2 |
| 🏨1-night in budget guesthouse | $15-25 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🍽️Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning, sparsely touristed natural scenery and mountain landscapes
- Warm hospitality and opportunities to learn about Kachin culture
- Fresh, local produce and simple, flavorful northern Myanmar cuisine
- Excellent base for treks and wildlife watching in northeastern Myanmar
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities in town
- Seasonal travel can be disrupted by rain or road closures
- Restricted nightlife and fewer high-end accommodation options
- Connectivity (cell service and internet) can be spotty in remote areas
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Chezu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "A-kyi ba de" - Please
- "Shin-ba-nu? or English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Zay hnit hpon par bu?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Putao
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic spot along the river where the sun sinks behind the hills, ideal for silhouettes and long exposures.
Wide-angle views of northern ranges from accessible viewpoints near Putao, especially with morning or late afternoon light.
Photograph wooden houses and terraced fields with soft dawn light and rising steam from kitchen fires.
Fog-shrouded valleys in early morning; ideal for moody landscape and nature photography.
Food in Putao
Putao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty curry featuring fresh bamboo shoots and pork or fish, common in northern Myanmar and widely available in Putao’s eateries.
Must-Try!
A Burmese classic with fermented tea leaves, nuts, sesame, and a mix of crunchy toppings; found in many teahouses with regional twists.
Rice noodle fish soup, a Myanmar breakfast staple; roadside stalls in Putao often serve versions with river fish.
A simple, popular street snack pairing tea or coffee with a flavorful kick.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market selling fresh produce, rice, tea leaves, dried fish, spices, and small snacks; great for authentic local flavors and photo opportunities.
Side streets near the market where grilled fish, fritters, vegetable curries, and hot tea are commonly found.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially around villages and religious sites. Remove shoes when entering homes and temples, and speak softly in sacred or rural spaces.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly elders and women; some communities may prefer not to be photographed.
Show respect through polite greetings, avoid touching anyone’s head, and give seating or space as a sign of courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Putao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra amount for good service is common. For guides, porters, and drivers, consider $1–5 per day depending on service quality and length of trip.
Cash (Myanmar Kyat) is the most widely accepted method; USD may be accepted at some guesthouses or markets. Credit cards are rarely accepted in Putao, and ATMs are limited outside larger towns, so carry sufficient cash and small denominations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings warm days and rising humidity; mornings are often cool and clear, with occasional thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rivers begin to swell, making ferryings and some paths scenic but potentially slippery.
June to October brings heavy rains and possible landslides; roads can become impassable and flight schedules may shift. Lush green landscapes abound, and waterfalls are at their fullest—great for dramatic photography if travel is planned with flexibility.
November to February offers cool to chilly mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures; this is the most comfortable season for trekking and photography, with clearer skies and less rain.
Putao at Night
Hiking in Putao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Some access points allow for day hikes into foothill forests with panoramic views; multi-day treks typically require local guides and permits.
Rugged valley routes featuring varied terrain, forests, and potential wildlife sightings; best with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Putao by plane.
Domestic flights connect Putao with Yangon, Mandalay, and Myitkyina; operations can be seasonal and weather-dependent.
Main gateway to northern Kachin State; more frequent connections to Yangon and Mandalay; serves as a transfer hub for journeys into Putao.
Alternative access point with connections to larger hubs; can be used if routes to Myitkyina or Putao are disrupted.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in the Putao area, with a rich cultural heritage and distinct traditional practices.
Communities with unique languages, crafts, and customary practices living in surrounding villages.
A mosaic of people who contribute to the town’s markets, crafts, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common pastime and community activity in Putao, particularly among youth and in school settings.
Played in local schools and some guesthouse yards; informal games are common in the evenings.
The surrounding hills attract runners and hikers seeking scenic routes with varying difficulty.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Putao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vegetable curries, lentil soups, tofu dishes, and dal. When ordering, specify no fish or meat and ask about stock (avoid meat-based broths).