Kachin State

The Union of Myanmar is the largest peninsular country in the region of South East Asia. It's total area is 261 thousands and 228 square miles. The population at present is approximately 52 million. There are 125 ethic nationalities living in Myanmar but the majority are Bamars, Shans, Kayins, Kachins, Chins, Mons, Kayahs and Rakhines.

Kachin state which is located in the extreme north of Myanmar lie between the upper region of the Ayeyarwaddy and the Chindwin River. Kachin state is featured basically with the plain mountain ranges, a lot of summits and big tree forests. It's approximate area is 34,379 square miles. Being on an average of 3000 feet above sea level, the eastern portion of Kachin state possesses the couching of Inmaikha and the Malika, the two tributaries to form the Ayeyarwaddy River.

The largest natural lake in Myanmar named Inndawgyi, 40 miles long, 70 miles broad lie on the upper region of the Moekaung River in this lake. Myitkyina is the capital of Kachin state. The Kachins, the Shans, Azis, Mine Thars, Liphaws etc are the nationalities living in Kachin state. Kachins have seven ethnic branches whose traditional dances are different to each other. There are five famous dances of Manaw dance performed auspicious occasions. Lawaw San Waysan performed for the occasion of celebrating World victory and Sum wat, Junpaw is a traditional dance performed by Lachees of Kachin Nationalities.

Myitkyina

Myitkyina is the capital and centrally located in the Kachin State. It is the northern most railway terminal, 919 miles from Yangon and 487 miles from Mandalay. Visitors can tour the Myit Sone, the confluence of MayKha and Malika Streams. Ayeyarwaddy, the most useful river in Myanmar has its source from this confluence and flows 1325 miles to the mouth of the river. The panoramic view of the scenario at Myit Sone with the unspoiled beauty of nature is beyond the expression of words and will definitely be a fine attraction to tourists.

Myitkyina can be reached by road, rail, river and air. Different tribes of national races live in harmony with their own cultures, costumes, dialects, dances and lifestyles. The glittering costumes with silver trinkets of the charming Kachin belles would be an enchanting sight. For souvenir lovers that the Kachin woollen bag with silver trinkets would be a memorable gift. The overland trade route to India and China and World War II supply line to China along the
Ledo Road pass through Myitkyina.