Myitkyina: A Wonderful and Diverse Destination
The capital of Kachin State in Myanmar is the city of Myitkyina, Myanmar. Its name means "near the big river" since it sits on the west bank of the Ayeyarwady River. Known for its cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity, Myitkyina serves as a gateway for trips to surrounding tribal villages and the Indawgyi Lake, Myanmar's largest body of water. It is also the northernmost part of the country that can be reached by land travel. The Myitkyina Airport (MYT) serves the city.
Best Time to Visit
February and March are two of the most popular months for tourism in Myitkyina apart from August. A visit in February is made more fun because the city celebrates the Lisu New Year, a colorful three-day bash participated in by Lisu people from across the state. However, expect the Myitkyina hotels to be fully booked as well as priced higher than the rest of the year.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The city's most spectacular attraction is the Hsu Taung Pye Zedidaw, a pagoda that is set opposite to a giant reclining Buddha. The Kachin State Cultural Museum is a must-visit place which has an excellent exhibition of traditional and historical showcase about the various indigenous groups of the state. Other attractions you can visit include the Myitkyina University and the Kachin Manao Park. Situated in the city are a few hotels that provide fine accommodations like the Hotel Myitkyina, which also has a restaurant, bar, and a shared lounge and The Cartel Hotel that's situated in Zaw Jyun Road, a quiet section of town. Myit Sone Hotel is a value-for-money hotel that offers comfortable air-conditioned rooms.
