Keng Tung Overview
Enchanting History
Keng Tung (also called Kyaing Tong), the "Capital of the Golden Triangle",
is a town that lies in a broad, beautiful, rice-growing valley in the remote eastern end of Shan State, Myanmar (Burma).
It is centered between the borders of China, Thailand and Laos, in an area which has been known to the world as the Golden Triangle Region.
It has had a unique past and has played host to Chinese traders, British colonial officials, Buddhist pilgrims and Christian missionaries,
as well as famous British writers. Keng Tung can be considered one of the most fascinating places to visit in Myanmar.
Charming People
The area has allowed foreign visitors from 1993, yet still is a seldom seen part of Myanmar with remote mountain valleys and stunning natural beauty. The town and its surrounding area is a melting pot of many cultures, including those of the ethnic groups which mostly inhabit the hills. The Shan race who call themselves “Tai” is the largest people-group having about 12 subgroups, among which are Tai-Khun, Tai-Lu, Tai-Nu, Tai-Yai and Tai-Loi. The minority groups in the area include the Eng, Akha, Akhu, Palaung, Sunjim, Lisu and the Lahu tribes which have all in part managed to preserve their ancient customs and heritage as well as their traditional dress.
Link to Ethnic Groups list pageFascinating Places
The main street in Keng Tung is lined with colonial-era shop buildings, bungalows and churches, and the town is studded with more than 30 Buddhist temples, known by the Shan word “Wat”. Most of the must-see spots in Keng Tung can be reached on foot, but motorcycle-taxis and car rentals are also available. A walk around the romantic Naung Tong Lake in the morning or evening is a highlight for a day here. Dinning at a restaurant near the lake in the evening cool is another relaxing treat.
The exotic Central Market is open every day and is crowded with locals and tribespeople from the surrounding hills and villages.
Appetizing Food
A typical Keng Tung dish includes fish or meat cooked with onion and garlic. Food in the Golden Triangle region is Shan food with a Chinese influence. One can try a variety of dishes unique to this region where many ethnic cultures influence the flavor.
Link to Restaurants list pageThingyan Water Festival
(April)
The Thingyan Water Festival in Keng Tung offers a different experience than other Thingyan celebrations throughout Myanmar. The unique Water Festival here dates back to 1410 when Keng Tung area suffered extreme droughts and wildfires which destroyed much of the region. To pacify the evil spirits to bring the rain, KENG TUNG’s 12th Sawbwa, Yi Hkam Hka ordered the ethnic Tai-Loi people to play a sacred drum for 24 hours non-stop. Consequently, according to legend, steady rain followed, reviving crops and restoring peace and happiness. Today, visitors are welcome to enjoy the Thingyan celebrations which is held in April during the Buddhist Near Year. Be prepared be showered – with pure water and good luck!
Tazaung-daing Light Festival
(November)
Tazaung-daing Festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, is held on the full moon day of Tazaung-mon which is usually in November. It officially marks the end of the rainy season, and is the last day of the month-long Kathein during which new robes and special alms are offered to Buddhist monks. On this day, people party on the main streets of Keng Tung, and songs and dances are performed near the temples.
Akha New Year Festival
(December)
The Akha New Year Festival held on December 28 in Keng Tung, is celebrated by singing and dancing from early morning until late at night. The magnificent helmet-like headdresses worn by the Akha women to protect themselves from evil spirits, and the Akha people’s traditional folk costumes -- elaborate and colorful -- make the festival a popular event in Keng Tung. When night falls, the gathering place is filled with vendors selling sticky rice, grilled meat and other festive foods.