Putao
,Putao is a picturesque town located in the northernmost part of Myanmar, in Kachin State. It is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and lush forests, making it a popular destination for trekking and nature enthusiasts. The town serves as a gateway to the northern Himalayan region, including the scenic Hakha and Hkakabo Razi, the highest peak in Myanmar.
Despite its remote location, Putao offers a unique blend of ethnic cultures and spectacular natural beauty, attracting adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyaikhtiyo" - Thank you
- "Nehn hma kyi" - How are you?
- "Nya naing" - Goodbye
- "Pyan nar" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Putao's Natural Wonders
morning
:Start your day with a hike in the stunning Putao Valley. Experience the breathtaking views of lush mountains and rivers as you immerse yourself in nature.
afternoon
:Visit the local markets and interact with the friendly villagers. Savor some traditional Burmese lunch and learn about the local handicrafts.
evening
:Relax by the river and enjoy a serene sunset. Capture the moment with beautiful photographs of the changing colors in the sky.
Trek to the Muru River
morning
:Begin your trek towards the Muru River, surrounded by dense forests and diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and local flora along the way.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch by the riverbank, enjoying the cool breeze and sound of flowing water. Take a refreshing dip to cool off from the trek.
evening
:Return to Putao while witnessing the beautiful sunset over the landscape. Share stories of your trek over a hearty dinner with fellow travelers.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and rivers
- Rich cultural heritage with unique traditions and festivals
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Myanmar, offering a more authentic experience
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and exploring nearby villages
- Friendly and welcoming local community
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists
- Accessibility can be challenging due to remote location
- Unpredictable weather conditions, especially during rainy season
- Limited healthcare facilities and services
- Language barriers may exist, as English is not widely spoken
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Trekking
Explore the scenic beauty of Putao through various trekking routes that lead through lush forests and mountainous terrain, offering stunning views and encounters with local wildlife.
River Rafting
Experience adventure on the rivers surrounding Putao with guided rafting tours that provide a thrilling way to see the landscapes and the possibility of spotting rare birds.
Cultural Tours
Engage with the local ethnic communities by taking part in cultural tours that include visits to traditional villages, showcasing the unique lifestyle and customs of the indigenous people.
Bird Watching
Putao is known for its rich biodiversity, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The area is home to many rare species, making it an ideal location for enthusiasts.
Camping
Set up camp in the breathtaking natural surroundings of Putao, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy starry nights away from the city.
Mountain Biking
Take advantage of the rugged paths and mountain trails around Putao for an exhilarating mountain biking experience, which offers both challenge and scenic rewards.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Putao with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Naga Hills
The Naga Hills offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and are renowned for their stunning sunsets. This is a prime location for photographers looking to capture the natural beauty of Putao.
Putao Airport
Even though it's an airport, it provides unique views of the snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys, making it an unusual yet picturesque spot for photography, especially during sunrise.
Mali Hka River
The serene Mali Hka River is perfect for capturing reflections of the lush surroundings and the distant mountains. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for stunning photographs.
Shwe Wah Kan Pagoda
This pagoda is a cultural landmark with great views of the surrounding area. Its architecture combined with the backdrop of the hills gives photographers numerous opportunities for remarkable shots.
Hkakabo Razi National Park
Home to the highest peak in Southeast Asia, this national park offers dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for outdoor photography and capturing the raw beauty of nature.
Local Villages
Visiting local villages around Putao presents photographers with opportunities to capture the daily life of the residents and the stunning backdrop of the mountains, providing both cultural and scenic photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kachin Noodles
A staple in the Kachin region, these wheat noodles are served with a spicy broth, meat, and fresh herbs. Head to the local markets to find stalls selling this delicious dish.
Must-Try!
Shan Rice
A flavorful rice dish often served with fish and vegetables seasoned with herbs. You can taste authentic Shan rice at many eateries along the main street.
Paw San Htwe
Sweet, homemade rice cakes that are often enjoyed as snacks or desserts. Look for this treat at local bakeries and street vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Putao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Putao Central Market
This vibrant market is the heart of Putao, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls. Try the fried snacks and seasonal fruits that are always a hit.
Street Food Stalls on Main Road
Along the main road, various stalls offer an array of street food including grilled meats, savory pancakes, and sweet treats. It's a great place to try local flavors and socialize with the community.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress Modestly
In Putao, as in much of Myanmar, it is important to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should avoid clothing that is too revealing. Wearing long skirts or pants and covering shoulders is advisable.
Respect Local Traditions
Be aware of and respect the traditional customs and practices of the local communities. This includes understanding the significance of various cultural rituals and being mindful of your behavior during festivals and ceremonies.
Use Appropriate Greetings
When meeting someone, it's customary to greet with a slight bow or by placing your hands together in a 'wai' gesture, which shows respect. Using the local language for greetings can also be a sign of respect and appreciation towards the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Putao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Putao, a town in northern Burma, tipping is generally less common than in many Western countries, but it is becoming more acceptable in the tourism sector. Visitors may tip in restaurants and for services such as guides and drivers, typically rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation. The amount can vary but often ranges from 500 to 2000 kyats, depending on the quality of service.
Payment
Payment practices in Putao often involve cash transactions, as credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities. The local currency is the kyat, and ATMs may be limited, so it is advisable for travelers to carry enough cash. In addition, some local markets may accept US dollars, but it is typically better to use the local currency for most transactions. Bartering is also common in markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Putao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter (November to February)
This is considered the best time to visit Putao. The weather is cool and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Travelers can enjoy clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring the stunning landscapes.
Spring (March to April)
Spring brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C. While it's still a good time to visit, the weather can get hot during the day. The blooming flowers add color to the scenery, and visitors can experience the vibrant culture and local festivals during this time.
Summer (May to June)
Summer is characterized by rising temperatures and increased humidity, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This season marks the beginning of the rainy season, and while showers are common, the region’s landscapes become lush and green. It's less crowded during this period, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain.
Monsoon (July to October)
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 28°C. Travel may be challenging due to muddy conditions, but the natural beauty of the area is heightened. This season is best for eco-tourists who enjoy the quieter side of nature and the opportunity to see wildlife.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hkakabo Razi National Park
A stunning national park featuring diverse flora and fauna, Hkakabo Razi is known for its challenging trails and breathtaking views, including the highest peak in Southeast Asia.
Putao to Ali Dummi Trek
This popular trek takes hikers through beautiful landscapes, offering glimpses of local villages, lush forests, and views of the mountains, culminating at the scenic Ali Dummi village.
Kachin Hills Walks
Explore the scenic Kachin hills with various trails available for hikers of all levels, providing access to stunning panoramas and the chance to encounter local wildlife.
Namkham River Valley Trail
A picturesque trail along the Namkham River, this hike offers a serene environment, with opportunities to see unique wildlife and local plant species.
Mount Razi Trek
An adventurous trek that leads hikers to the foothills of Mount Razi, offering challenging routes and the chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Putao through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Putao by plane.
Kachin State Putao Airport (PBU)
Putao Airport serves the town of Putao in Kachin State, Burma, and is the nearest airport to Putao.
Mandalay International Airport (MDL)
Mandalay International Airport is located in Mandalay, approximately 455 km southwest of Putao, offering international flights.
Yangon International Airport (RGN)
Yangon International Airport is in Yangon, about 1,200 km south of Putao, serving as the main international gateway for Burma.
Naypyidaw International Airport (NYT)
Naypyidaw International Airport is located in the capital city, Naypyidaw, roughly 940 km south of Putao, with international connectivity.
Heho Airport (HEH)
Heho Airport serves the Inle Lake region and is situated approximately 723 km south of Putao, offering domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kachin
The Kachin people are the largest ethnic group in the Putao region, known for their distinct culture, language, and traditions.
Shan
The Shan ethnic group can also be found in the area, contributing to the region's diverse cultural landscape.
Bamar
The Bamar people, being the predominant ethnic group in Burma, have a presence in Putao, though they are less concentrated than the Kachin.
Naga
The Naga people inhabit areas around Putao, adding to the ethnolinguistic diversity of the region.
Other minority groups
Various other smaller ethnic groups reside in Putao, each with their unique customs and ways of life.
The Soul of Putao
Discover the essence of Putao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Sports
In Putao, traditional sports such as 'Lethwei' (Burmese bare-knuckle boxing) and various forms of traditional wrestling are popular among the locals.
Football (Soccer)
Football is widely played in Putao, with many local teams and community events centered around the sport, especially during the rainy season.
Volleyball
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Putao, often played by both men and women in informal settings and local tournaments.
Basketball
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with youth actively participating in games and competitions in local schools.
Hiking and Trekking
Given Putao's scenic mountainous terrain, hiking and trekking are popular activities that attract both locals and tourists, contributing to physical fitness.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Options
Although meat is prevalent in local cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes, particularly in cafes. Ask the staff for available veggie options.
Vegan Options
Finding strictly vegan dishes may be challenging, but many local restaurants can modify dishes to exclude dairy and meat. Ensure to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
Gluten-Free Options
Wheat noodles are common, but some rice dishes and vegetable-based meals can cater to gluten-free diets. It’s advisable to discuss preferences with restaurant staff.