Kengtung

Kengtung (Cheingtung, Chiang Tung, Kengtong, Kyaingtong) is a town in Shan State, Eastern Myanmar.

Understand
Isolated from the rest of Myanmar, Kengtung is a hotspot of cultural diversity. Close to the Thai and Chinese borders, Kengtung has been at a crossroads in terms of Southeast Asian trade for a very long time.

Being in the heart of the opium-growing Golden Triangle, Kengtung used to be off-limits for foreigners. The ceasefire between the rebels and government has opened up the town and valley to the rest of world.

Get in
The only way to get to Kengtung from Myanmar's major cities is by flying. However, it is accessible by road from the Thai border.

By bus or taxi
The best way is by bus from Tachilek (350 Thai baht), or shared taxi from Tachilek (450 baht/person, 4 people).

By plane
There are direct flights from three of Myanmar's cities: Yangon, Mandalay and Heho. The airlines that fly these routes are Myanmar National Airlines and Mann Yadanarpon Airlines.

Get around
The town itself is walkable. Motortaxis are 500 kyat.

See
Hill-tribe trekking can be arranged through your guesthouse or through an independent guide. When trekking, don't give children sweets, unless you are prepared to provide toothbrushes as well.

Eat
Shan khow soi-shan noodle soup is the staple of the region. Otherwise, try some local Burmese curry restaurants.

Drink
Rice whisky is cheap and potent. A Chinese beer costs around 800 kyat.