Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Internet
SBO Internet (daily 9am-10pm) on Tabinshweti Rd has a good connection for
K400/hr.
Myitkyina and the far north
Despitetheexoticallureofitsjunglesandhilltribes,Myanmar's
farnorth
-wherethecoun-
try forms a wedge between China and India - sees few foreign visitors. In part this is down
to the byzantine
travel restrictions
that govern much of the region, but the north's rusting
infrastructure and damp, steamy climate both play their parts.
However, for those willing to stump up for permits or happy to brave long, uncomfortable
journeys, Myanmar's northern tip has plenty to offer. The main town,
Myitkyina
, is the best
placetogetatasteofKachinculture,whilethepeaceful
IndawgyiLakeWildlifeSanctuary
is the most accessible of the region's nature reserves. Further north, the small town of
Putao
is a useful base for adventurous expeditions into the surrounding jungle-clad mountains.
FESTIVALS IN MYITKYINA
On Kachin National Day (January 10) each year Myitkyina hosts the
Manau festival
, ori-
ginally a
nat-
propitiating ceremony and now an important expression of Kachin unity. The
town stops for days of feasting and dancing, with the focus on Manau Park north of the
town centre, where the totem-like Manau poles are on display year-round. In early Febru-
ary, Myitkyina also plays host to the
Lisu New Year
celebrations, when Lisu people from
Kachin State and neighbouring regions of China gather together for a three-day party.
