15 days expedition to snow capped peak in Putao, Kachin state, northern Myanmar
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This is our third multiday long distance hike in Myanmar/Burma. In December 2009 we went to Mt. Phangranrazi in Putao, Kachin state in the far north. Then in January/February 2011 we went for Mt. Victoria in southern Chin state in the western Myanmar. Our third expedition will be another long distance hard hike from Putao.

This December 2011, we will take on the 15 days expedition to the snow peak of Ma Dwe Razi (Ma Doi Razi) in Putao, Kachin state. So far the 4600 meter peak near Myanmar-India-China (Tibet) border has been climbed by less than five groups of hardy hikers.

The hike will start and end in Putao. The only convenient way to get in and out is by flight. According to their winter schedule Air Bagan has flights to and from Putao on Sunday and Tuesday.

We plan to do it in 15 days but if the weather and other consitions are worse than expected it may take more than 15 days. The first two days hike will be on low land with little elevation change, and then we will follow the river and begin to go up the mountains after mountains hiking up and down. There will be plenty of river crossing and walking on or along the river. Expect some scrambling, steep going up and down, and final few days will see us on snow.

Just before the final ascent to Mt. Ma Dwe (Ma Doi) are two lakes probably under ice during December. We will be camping near the lake the night before the attempt to summit. Below are google earth images of the landscape we will be trekking over.

Hike from Putao to the foot of the hills in the north
First part of the hike to the foot of the hills

Hiking up the mountains along the river valley
We will then go up the mountains along the river valley.

When we go higher it is getting harder, steeper
As we gain elevation the hike becomes harder, steeper, and the weather will be unpredictable.

Icy lake beside 4600 meter Mt. Madwe Razi peak
Icy lake beside 4600 meter Mt. Ma Doi Razi peak.

Looking south from the peak - Putao plain
Looking south from the peak, you might see the Putao plain if the weather is clear.

Hike info
  • Dates: Day one is 6th Dec 2011 arrival Putao by flight
  • Expected number of days: 15
  • First night and last night stay in Putao
  • Number of peoples: not more than four
  • Who may join: Fit, regular hikers with long distance, mountain, cold weather experience
  • To expect:
    • Low boiling point and thin air at high altitude (87C at 4000 m, 60% air at 4600 m)
    • Snow storm, high wind, steep up/down, cold water crossing, -15C temperature & chilling effects
    • Delay and slow movement due to bad weather
    • Flight delay, enexpected waiting days for the return flight
    • You will carry most of your stuff yourselves
  • No glacier crossing
What we will provide:
  • Travel permit to Putao, fee payable to Myanmar Tourism Authority, Compulsary licensed guide if applicable
  • Local guides and porters
  • Accommodation in Putao (basic rooms with bathroom)
  • Foods, snacks and drinks from first day dinner to last day lunch
  • Flight ticket Yangon/Mandalay to Putao on the 6th Dec 2011, and return
What you need to bring
  • Personal shelter (tent), sleeping bag and pad
  • Toiletry, hand cleaner, insect repellant
  • Water tight backpack
  • Appropriate clothing, head cover, gloves, socks suitable for warm 20C down to -15C
  • Water resistant mountain hiking boots, gaiters, hiking sandals
  • Lighting, headlamps, spare batteries and bulb
  • Personal medicines, first aid kit
  • Hiking poles, cords, sun glasses, swiss army knife, spoon, forks, cup
  • Drinker water container, water purifier or filter, some high energy bars
  • Passport, camera and accessories
Important notes
  • Depending on the local conditions we may change the destination to other above 4000 meter peak
  • Please purchase travel accident and health insurance, trip cancellation insurance in your place
  • Inquiry and booking should be sent to trekthailand (dot) net (at) gmail (dot) com, or use the inquiry form
  • Please provide us
    • Full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, nationality of each person (you may scan and send your passport)
    • Arrival/departure dates and flight details to Yangon
    • Your Myanmar travel plan if you visit other areas than Putao (for permit application purpose)
    • Food selection or preference
    • Approximate weight (kg) of your stuff if you need porter carry for you
  • Cost of the trip depends on various conditions so please email us
  • Due to permit application time, etc. booking should be done latest 10th Nov 2011



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Multi days hike to snow peaks in Putao, Burma Kachin state