KENGTUNG, Shan State — Kengtung is a diverse town in eastern Shan State, home to a number of Burma’s ethnic minorities. While the majority of the population is ethnically Shan, smaller ethnic groups—including Palaung, Lisu, and Akha—also reside in the lively mountain town.
Most of the area’s ethnic minority villagers live on the hillsides, which are difficult to reach during the rainy season. Some Akha villages take more than two hours to reach by car or motorbike during harsh weather.
Kengtung is generally a quiet town, but it’s always busy in the mornings, when villagers travel into town to sell vegetables or kitchen wares at the central market. There are many types of Shan foods on offer, and traditional garments specific to different ethnic groups.
Though the town is quite remote, it features an airport and serves as a hub for domestic travel. Many visitors are en route to nearby Mong La or, as we were, Wa Special Region. It is also a common stop for travelers to and from Thailand via the border town of Tachilek.
