Myitkyina, Myanmar

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Myitkyina, Myanmar

Region: Kachin State

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Geographic Coordinates: 25.383300, 97.400000

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 243031

Language: Kachin

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Myitkyina, The capital city of Kachin State in northern Myanmar, Is a fascinating destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known parts of the country. The city sits on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and is surrounded by lush green hills and mountains, Making it a picturesque location. Myitkyina is also home to several ethnic groups such as Kachin, Shan, And Lisu who have their own unique cultures and traditions. One of the most popular attractions in Myitkyina is its vibrant markets.

The city has several markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts made by local artisans. The Manaw Festival Market is one such market that takes place annually during January or February. This week-long festival celebrates Kachin culture with traditional dances, Music performances, And food stalls serving local delicacies. Another must-visit attraction in Myitkyina is Indawgyi Lake – one of Southeast Asia’s largest inland bodies of water located about 70 km from the city center. This freshwater lake attracts migratory birds like cranes and ducks during winter months making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

For history buffs interested in learning about Myanmar’s past struggles with colonialism, There are several sites worth visiting in Myitkyina such as Fort Hertz – an old British fort built-in 1894 that was used as a military base during World War II. If you’re looking for adventure activities then Putao – a small town located about 200 km north-west from Myitkyina – offers trekking trails through lush forests leading up to snow-capped peaks like Mt.Phongun Razi (3, 635m) which is also known as Southeast Asia’s highest peak outside Himalaya range.

The food scene in Myitkyina reflects its diverse population with Chinese-style noodles being popular among locals while Shan-style dishes like Khauk Swe (noodle soup) and Tofu Nway (tofu salad) are also widely available. For those with a sweet tooth, Try out the local dessert called Mont Lone Yay Paw which is a type of sticky rice cake filled with coconut or sesame. Myitkyina is an excellent place to experience traditional Kachin hospitality. The locals are known for their warm welcomes and willingness to share their customs and traditions with visitors.

Overall, Myitkyina offers a unique blend of culture, History, Nature, And adventure making it an exciting destination for travelers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Myanmar.

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1. Myitkyina Market
2. Kachin State Cultural Museum
3. Shwe Taung Dan Pagoda
4. Myit Sone (Confluence of Maykha and Malikha Rivers)
5. Indawgyi Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Manau Park (Kachin Traditional Dance Ground)
7. Dukahtawng Buddha Statue
8. Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary
9. War Memorial Cemetery
10. Mogaung Archaeological Site

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1. The major industries and businesses in Myitkyina, Myanmar are diverse and include:
• Agriculture
• Timber industry
• Mining
• Tourism
• Manufacturing
• Trading
• Transportation
2. The area is a hub for crops such as:
• Rice
• Maize
• Beans
3. It is also known for its:
• Teak forests
• Timber industry
4. Several mines produce:
• Jade
• Gold
• Other minerals
5. Myitkyina has popular tourist attractions such as:
• The Kachin State Cultural Museum
• Indawgyi Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Small-scale manufacturing industries include:
• Textiles
• Food processing plants
7. The city serves as a major trading center for goods from China due to its proximity to the border.
8. Additionally, it is a transportation hub with:
• An airport
• Bus terminal
• Railway station
9. Connecting it to other parts of Myanmar’s northern region.

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1. World War II:
   • Myitkyina was a major battleground during World War II between Allied forces and the Japanese army.
   • The Battle of Myitkyina lasted for three months in 1944, with heavy casualties on both sides.
2. Kachin Independence Movement:
   • The Kachin State is located in northern Myanmar, and Myitkyina is its capital city.
   • The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has been fighting for autonomy from Myanmar since 1961.
3. Aung San Suu Kyi:
   • Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi was born in Yangon but spent several years in Myitkyina during her childhood when her father was stationed there as a military officer.
4. Shan Rebellion:
   • In 1958, an armed rebellion broke out among the Shan ethnic group against the central government of Myanmar.
   • The rebellion spread to other parts of the country, including Myitkyina.
5. Chinese Invasion:
   • In early 1942, Chinese Nationalist forces invaded northern Burma to counter Japanese aggression during World War II.
   • They captured Myitkyina but were later forced to withdraw due to lack of supplies.
6. U Nu:
   • U Nu was a prominent politician who served as Prime Minister of Burma from 1948-1958 and again from 1960-1962.
   • He visited Myitkyina several times during his tenure as Prime Minister.
7. Irrawaddy River:
   • The Irrawaddy River flows through northern Myanmar and passes by Myitkyina before heading south towards Yangon and eventually emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
8. Jade Mining Industry:
   • Northern Myanmar is known for its jade mines which have been operating for centuries near Hpakant town close to Mogaung Township which is about two hours drive from Myitkyina.

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1. Kachin State Cultural Museum
2. Indawgyi Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Shwe Taung Gyar Pagoda
4. Myit Sone (confluence of the Mali and N’Mai rivers)
5. War Memorial Park
6. Myitkyina Railway Station
7. Manaw Festival Grounds
8. Jeytuu Kaba Village (traditional Kachin village)
9. Htanaung Dam and Reservoir
10. Myoma Market (local market with food, clothing, and handicrafts)

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1. Kachin Manaw Festival is a colorful and traditional dance festival celebrated by the Kachin people in Myitkyina every January. Participants dress up in vibrant costumes and perform traditional dances to honor their ancestors.
2. Thingyan Water Festival is a joyous celebration that marks the beginning of the Burmese New Year in April. People splash water on each other, enjoy delicious food, and play music during this festive occasion.
3. Independence Day is celebrated on January 4th across Myanmar, including Myitkyina, to commemorate the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948.
4. Shwe Kyun Pin Nat Pwe takes place annually at the Shwe Kyun Pin Pagoda near Myitkyina during October or November to honor nats (spirits) who protect people from harm.
5. Taunggyi Hot Air Balloon Festival is a popular event held nearby in Taunggyi every November that attracts visitors from all over Myanmar and beyond with its stunning hot air balloons decorated with lights released into the night sky for spectators below to admire.

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1. Kachin Manaw Park
2. Myitkyina People’s Park
3. Kachin State Cultural Museum and Zoological Garden
4. Ayeyarwady River Bank
5. Shwe Settaw Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Indawgyi Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Hukawng Valley Tiger Reserve
8. Myit Sone Dam Site
9. Jeybu National Garden and Waterfall
10. Malikha Lodge Adventure Activities (hiking, kayaking, rafting)

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