Arrive in Kengtung, Myanmar’s gateway to the Golden Triangle. Meet your guide and transfer to hotel. Visit Lane Tree Hill for panoramic views over Kengtung. The town, often compared to Chiang Mai 50 years ago, is a treasure trove of traditional architecture with old-style houses and their intricately designed wooden balconies so characteristic of Shan architecture. After visiting a local Shan lacquer ware factory, visit Maha Myat Muni Pagoda, the holiest in Kengtung.

Overnight in Kengtung

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll take on a full-day excursion to explore the many and still very traditional ethnic minority communities of the Golden Triangle area. A 45–minute drive from Kengtung is Wam Pauk, the home of the red-clothed Palaung tribe. An easy trek of 15 minutes will lead to Hwe Lon, a village of the Akha people. Continue walking to Koum Ma, a Wa tribe village. Stop for lunch at Pin Tauk Waterfall near a Lahu village.

In the afternoon, you’ll meet with the elusive Ann minority. Return to Kengtung.

Overnight in Kengtung
Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/_)

Leave the hotel after breakfast to visit the Mong Kwan area on a 4–wheel drive pick–up truck. Stop at the hilltop Hwe Kwai village, which belongs to the Loi tribe. Observe the daily life of colorfully dressed Li Shaw people and the unique Wan Kwan mud houses. After a picnic lunch, watch a traditional Lan Woan dance performance in Loi Lone village with beautiful Khun girls, in full traditional costume. Return to Kengtung.

Overnight in Kengtung
Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/_)

Leave the hotel after breakfast for a walk around Kengtung Market, the meeting point for many hill tribe people. Continue to Yan–Gone village and visit a traditional pottery workshop. Continue to Bo Lang a village of the Ann minority and Wan Sai, an Akha community.
In the afternoon, transfer to Kengtung Airport for onward flight.

Meals: (Breakfast/_/_)