Putao

Situated in the north of Myanmar, can reach only by air route. The city surrounded with snow peaked mountains and the weather is cold around the year. Flora and Fauna can be seen in the forest around Putao. The suspension bridges are the typical river crossing in this region. People of the Rawan, Lisu, Khamti-Shan, Jingphaw and Kachin are represented in the region. It is the nearest town to the base camp for Climbing Mt. Khakhaborazi (5889 meters), which is the highest mountain in Myanmar and in Southeast Asia.

It can be reached from Myitkyina by air about 30 minutes and only Air Bagan Airline is available.

Myitkyina

The capital city of Kachin State is situated on the southern flank of Kachin State and between the confluence of river Maykha and Malikha, and this confluence is the source of Ayeyarwaddy. Different tribes of national races live in harmony with their own cultures, customs, dialects, dances and lifestyles. Myitkyina can be reached by air from Yangon (via Mandalay) and which take 2½ hour via Mandalay. It can also be reached by train from Mandalay and it will take 26 hour.
Manaw Festival held on 15 January annually is one of tourist attraction. Indawgyi Lake and Jade Land is a night stop tour and Waingmaw is a day tour from Myitkyina. 2* or 3* accommodation are there.

Indawgyi Lake

An enchanting lake is the biggest one in Myanmar as well as the third largest in the world with the area of 333sq.km. Boat excursion to Shwe Myitzu pagoda in the middle of the lake and elephant ride, are recommended to experience. As it is also a residence of the world’s rare birds such as Sarus crane, Pelican, Stork, etc., bird watching tour is available as well. It is 64 km from Hopin Railway Station and 6 hours by train from Myitkyina.

Hpakant (Jade Land)

The famous jade producing zone is situated 159 km (7 hour drive) northwest of Myitkyina. Gold panning can be observed along the Uru River. The surrounding areas are totally covered by mountains; summer is only 3 months from the mid February to the end of April. Rainy season is from May to September and winter is from October to February. All the businesses depend on the jade market. Majorities are jade mine workers. All the foodstuff and goods are carried from Mandalay.

There are two routes to Hpakant from Myitkyina, Karmine route and Hway Khar route. Karmine route is only for the summer time. Landscape is very nice but the road is heavily potholed and bumpy. It is not recommended to travel to Hpakant during May to September. As heavy floods are usual. By using the Hwa Khar route, we can cross and drop byIndawgyi Lake.

There is only one hotel so far, Jade City Hotel, which is 2*. Two-storey building, rooms are bathroom attached, air-conditioned, satellite TV & mini-bar. It is located on the hill where we can get the overlooking view of the town.

The meals are served at hotel or simple local restaurants but clean and good foods.

Bhamo

It is a little known town most northerly navigable point on the Ayeyarwaddy River. It is the ancient gateway to China and until recently was off limits to foreigners; it remains an important center for cross border trade. The river expedition between Mandalay & Bhamo combines scenic interest with a study of local life and culture. The river varies enormously: it is vast, with endless winding channels just above Mandalay, dark and narrow through the 3rd Defile. It is a constantly changing landscape with a stunning back drop of mountains. If we are so lucky, working elephants can be observed during the river cruise.

The accommodation there is simple with 2* hotel as the best available. It is clean, bathroom attached and some rooms have air-condition. The best accommodation available is 3*. They are good hotels, fully facilities with bathroom attached, fridge and air-conditioned. The food quality is acceptable as in other places.