Himalayan Far North

Myanmar's far north feels as far from the sweltering plains of the heartlands as is imaginable. This is full-on Himalayas, and one of the most unspoilt areas of the entire range, with all the trappings: ice-capped peaks, rocky ridges and high pasture loom above forests and profound valleys containing isolated tribal communities, remarkably culturally unsullied by any form of modernity.  The fact that this is largely due to the country's horrendous regime and consequent isolation and lack of 'development' is one big irony. Few visitors get here: even better - although this is because expensive permits (and air access only) are (as of 2012) required to go there.

There is a huge ethnic diversity in the area. The Kachin are the biggest group, but others include Lisu and Rawang.

This is trekkers' paradise, and, while all the usual kit and support are available, it is not quite as slick as a Himalayan regular may be used to - and this is probably a good thing. Day walks can be made, as can multi-day expeditions, a few days up to the 35 day trek to the foot of Hkakabo Razi, Myanmar's highest peak at 5,881m (19,295ft). The best walk in the area is probably the trek up Phon Kan Razi at a more reasonable 3,635m (11,926ft), on the Indian border and with wondrous views all around.  11 days. Think also about Phangran Razi and Nam Lant.

You can also meander in a leisurely manner through fields and tribal villages on the plain around the main town and flight/transport hub, Putao. Putao can (as of 2012) be reached by air only.

On anything other than day walks, it is essential to hire a local guide and porters. Long expeditions require hiking experience and stamina.

While Lonely Planet's Myanmar is pretty brief on the north, it does have the names of some expedition organizers, all Yangon based.

To go or not: until recently, there were major issues with visiting Myanmar, with the money and affirmation that the regime receives - with counter-arguments to the effect that money to the desperately poor locals and foreign contact is more important. These were well put in the 2009 Lonely Planet. But, with the release of Aung San Suu Kyi, the dabate has for the time being changed; she cautiously welcomes visitors coming to Myanmar.

Photos: We don't have any yet. Take a look at the Myanmar Photo Gallery, put together by Henk de Jong.

It is a bit unclear when is the best time to visit here, ALL COMMENTS WELCOME, but it appears to be October, i.e. very different from the rest of the country.

THIS PAGE IS AT AN EARLY STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT: ALL SUGGESTIONS AND PHOTOS WELCOME!