Shan State and eastern Burma
Explore Kengtung and this recently opened area of the Golden Triangle, full of picturesque scenery and minority hill tribes.
Eastern Burma is remote and rarely visited. Shan State is the largest state in Burma and encapsulates the colourful, complex nature of the country. Bordering China, Laos and Thailand, this region is the centre of a mix of cultural influences and is home to a number of indigenous tribes, each with its own distinctive identity and traditions. Explore the area, starting out from Kengtung, to see a stunning selection of landscapes and get a real feel for the heart of Burma.
Day 1: Kengtung
Upon arrival at Kengtung, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on an orientation tour of the city. Kengtung is in a lush valley and most of the city’s buildings reflect the traditional architectural styles of the Shan people. Explore the city streets, nearby hot springs, and the Maha Myat Muni pagoda.
Day 2: Kengtung - Hwe Lon
Visit Kengtung’s local market; this daily market is visited by villagers from the surrounding area who come to sell their products and barter for goods. Visiting the market, you will see minority hilltribes in their traditional dresses. Later, drive to Pin Tauk village, the starting point of today’s trek.
Set off on foot, trekking 45 minutes to 1 hour to the Akha minority village of Hwe Lon. Spend some time in the village, interacting with locals to discover more about their unique customs and daily lifestyle. In the afternoon, continue trekking to an Ann Village perched on the slopes of a hill. The Ann minority is known for their traditional black dress and blackened teeth. After walking around the village, stop at Lone Tree Hill for panoramic views of the city and continue on to Kengtung.
Day 3: Kengtung - Mong Kwan
Drive in the direction of Tachileik, along the Thai border. Continue into the hills to visit four neighboring Akha villages, where you will learn more about their unique culture and traditions. Some of these villages practice an interesting blend of three religions: Buddhism, Christianity, and animism (spirit worship).
In the afternoon, continue to the Mong Kwan region. Visit a village of the Loi minority, as well as having the chance to discover the traditions of the Li Shaw and Khun communities. Return to Kengtung in the late afternoon.
Day 4: Kengtung
Spend the morning at your leisure, exploring Kengtung. If time allows, visit a traditional Shan lacquer ware workshop and the water buffalo market, which is held twice a week in Kengtung. Transfer to the Kengtung airport for your onward flight.
Prices from
Prices from: £335.00 per person, twin share
Valid for Travel: 01 August 2011 to 30 September 2012.
Package includes: 4 days tailormade touring as specified.
Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room; prices are subject to availability and change; normal booking conditions apply.
Please note that surcharges may apply at peak times including Christmas and New Year.
To book, call 0845 643 6561
To book this travel offer, call one of our tailor-made travel experts now, quoting reference WEX102414.
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