Myitkyina

The capital and largest town of Kachin State is an important trade center between China and Myanmar. It is an ideal starting point for excursions to tribal villages, jade mines, and the Myitsone River confluence, about 40 kilometers north, where two Himalayan streams – Mehka and Malikha – meet to form the mighty Ayeyarwady River. Kachin State is renowned for its scenic natural beauty; from untouched jungle to Mount Hkakaborazi, the highest point in Myanmar at 5,889 meters and climbed for the first time only in 1996.

Myitkyina is not a small town which means that most of the time a motorbike taxi or a rented motorbike is the best way to get through town. Trishaws are available too. A good way to get around is also the so-called Thonbeins (3-Wheelers) which can accommodate several people. Taxi-Cars can be found and offer more comfort and safety, albeit at higher prices. This mountain area in the far north is largely untouched by tourism.