One of the highlights of our visits in Keng Tung area was to be invited to two of the local houses and there we could learn about their daily lives in a more relaxed atmosphere and take some pictures (with better light conditions and without things being shoved in our faces). At the end of the visit we bought a few items from 3-4 women and everyone was happy. We had such a lovely time with our hostess and it was such a special experience to drink tea, nosh on peanuts and the sweetest papaya we’d ever eaten and have a laugh with this local family whose life is so different than ours. A good idea is to bring with you some small gifts for the local women and children (not candy that will cause teeth damage) such as crayons, stickers, hair pins or any kind of toys. To our surprise, the hit of our “goody bag” was the most simple plastic spring toy and the blow ball pipe which was a huge success among the women and the kids alike (once we showed them how to use it, the entire village heard the cheers of joy). You can also collect the toiletries from your hotel and give them to the women. They will gladly accept it with a smile. On our way back we stopped at one of the lookouts overlooking the amazing landscape and enjoyed a typical picnic in the open air with snacks we bought earlier in the local market.
I loved myanmar when i was there three years ago. I wish i had known about this place
We loved Myanmar too! so inspiring. Next time then π
Incredible portraits! I’m often hesitant to visit tribes for ethical reasonsβbut if you’re confident it’s all above board, I think it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do in a country like Myanmar. What was your impression of tourism there? Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much Emily. This place has only started to welcome tourists recently so apart from us, we’ve only seen a couple of other tourists. The local tribe women though are quick to understand how they can take advantage of the situation ( sometimes it is a bit overwhelming). From our guide we learned that the local guides try and help the tribes as much as possible and we felt genuine concern on his part to make sure they are not taken advantage of. Hopefully, it will stay this way.
Oh, wow! What an experience! At the moment, I do have a hard time accepting the current situation of the Rohingyas and how the government is addressing the issue. However, I would be very tempted to go see these tribes. What a unique experience!
Thanks Anna. I understand what you mean. At the time of our visit, we weren’t aware of everything that was going on. We tried to help the local community though and the visit was really unique.
I know very little about Myanmar other than the (usually not so great) news I hear on the TV. Great to read about your experiences and these photos are stunning.
Thank you, Nailah. Myanmar is a mystery. There are still parts that are not allowed for tourists to explore but the ones that we got to explore were really beautiful and unique.
I adore your photographs – really beautiful captures. I am not very good at taking portraits but I am really intrigued my those faces (I know that is a weird thing to say, but I hope you know how I mean it) and I think you captured them beautifully.
Thank you so much Annika! It used to be difficult for us too to take pictures of people and sometimes it still is. We try to talk and break the ice and them maybe have a chance for a more natural looking portrait. We were invited to these women’s houses and spent there some time – so it was a great opportunity in better lighting than the harsh sun outside.
Your photos are stunning! Itβs such an interesting thing to do, visit a tribe, and a really good way to get to know local customs. I love the idea of visiting a rice wine factory too!!
Thanks so much Anna. It is our favorite kind of photography π
What great portraits! Thanks for showing us a glimpse into a unique tribe & culture. I missed the Shan State when I visited Myanmar, I think I would have enjoyed learning about the region, so thanks for sharing your experience!
No problem Abbie, thanks for the kind words π
THIS IS SO COOL! And definitely what I would want to check out during a visit!
Thank you so much Kay. It was very cool indeed π WE really enjoyed the experience.
What a beautiful place! I love discovering places that haven’t been spoiled by mass tourism. It seems the perfect place to get a feel for the way of life, the culture, and the people. Very excited to get over there!
It was really unique! you are going to enjoy your time there!
Your photos are absolutely gorgeous. They made me feel like I was there. Saved this for when I go to Myanmar. Sounds like an incredible experience!!!
Thank you so much Jennifer. We really try to transport our readers to our destinations so that’s a huge compliment! Myanmar is so wonderful, you are going to enjoy your time there for sure!
I love the article and wish I had known of this area when we were then in 2017. We did get to Hsipaw and had a shan guide there for our trek into the mountains. Sort of shortened due to military there at that time. The photographs are stunning and you have a real eye. Thank you for a good read.
John and Laurel
Thanks so much, John and Laurel for such a great compliment. So glad you like our post and photography style! KengTung/Kyaing Tong is one of the most special places we’ve visited in Myanmar and there are still so many places we’d like to visit in this unique country.
Hi, Chasing lenscapes.
may i ask if i can do the ” hill tribes of myanmar”, visit the colourful kyaing tong and taste the local rice wine in one day? where do i find the local guide and transportation? last question: how much is it likely to cost for two person? thank you.
Hi Jiao, the tribes are spread out around Kyaing Tong/ Kengtung and the rice wine factory is close to it as well. So, yes, you can visit some of the tribes and then visit the rice wine factory. Most of our Myanmar trip was planned with a guide and a driver so we can’t answer about public transportation. Regarding costs, since our visit to Kengtung was made as part of our full Myanmar itinerary, again, it’s hard to say how much just the Kengtung part was. We can refer you to the agent who planned the trip for us, please send us a private message on our Contact page if you’d like us to do so.