SINCE the peak season began, Kachin State has seen an increase in foreign travellers compared to the previous year, as reported by the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism. Starting from the end of October, local alpinists have explored the four snow-capped mountains in PutaO: Hponkan Razi, Hponyin Razi, Hpangran Razi, and Madwe Razi. PutaO is the most lucrative attraction in the region, providing a nature-based tourism and mountaineering experience.
The directorate has outlined plans to construct a mountain road and creek-crossing bridge in January. Collaboration with the Myanmar Tourism Entrepreneurs Association is also underway for the Myitsone resort project and Panwa snow-capped mountain expedition.
The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism recommends destinations for this peak season, including Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, Ngwehsaung, Chaungtha, Ngapali, PyinOoLwin, Inlay, Kalaw, Taunggyi, Kawthoung, Kyaukpyu, Manaung Island, and PutaO.
Foreign visitors typically access Kachin State by flight, exploring the Myitsone area and Indawgyi Lake. Local visitors often visit PutaO for mountaineering. U Khine Oo, director of the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism (Myitkyina), mentioned that Myitkyina had received over 1,500 foreign visitors last year, with more than 1,700 until September this year. Bookings from Thai holidaymakers were recently accepted.
He added that the town welcomed tourists from over 50 countries, with most of them arriving via Yangon and Mandalay by flight. These visits often include stops at Indawgyi Lake, Myitsone, and the surrounding areas of Myitkyina. While local alpinists commonly frequent PutaO, access for foreigners may have limitations. Government and private sector efforts are underway to enhance the thriving potential of Kachin's tourism industry.
Migratory birds arrive at Indawgyi Lake (or Indawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary), the largest inland lake in Asia, during this time of the year, attracting both local and foreign birdwatchers. The Kampaiti border allows foreign visitors to travel to Waingmaw for 14 days. The Kachin State government is working to promote this border crossing as an international gateway, enabling foreign travellers to reach as far as Myitkyina directly.
Kachin currently boasts 35 hotels and guesthouses in Myitkyina District, 12 in PutaO, and one in the Indawgyi area. Initiatives are under implementation to introduce homestay-based tourism in some destinations.— Nyein Thu (MNA)/NT
