Wild, mountainous and remote, Chin State (ခ်င္းျပည္နယ္) is Myanmar's poorest and least-developed state. Scrunched up against the borders with Bangladesh and India, Chin is sparsely populated and lacking in infrastructure. But it makes up for that with densely forested hills and mountains that soar above 10,000ft and that are separated by vast valleys through which rivers rage. Home to traditional villages inhabited by the friendly Chin people, a Tibeto-Burman group that has largely adopted Christianity, this is the perfect place to take the road less travelled.
Southern Chin State is already attracting visitors intent on hiking up Mt Victoria, the state's highest peak, and trekking to the villages around the hilltop town of Mindat. But northern Chin State remains mostly virgin territory for foreigners. Don't expect much in the way of comfort here. Instead, revel in a land that looks like it's barely been touched by human hands.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Chin State.
Lake
Rih LakeThis small, heart-shaped lake has huge spiritual significance for the Mizo people, who inhabit both sides of the nearby Myanmar–India border. Rih Lake certainly has a magical, tranquil setting: the water shines a deep blue and the lake is surrounded by rice paddies and forested hills. Rih Lake is accessed from nearby Rihkhawdar, a 15-minute ride away on a motorcycle taxi (K5000 return).
Mountain
Mt VictoriaThe highest peak in Chin State – 10,016ft – and the third-highest in Myanmar, stunning Mt Victoria is one of the principal attractions of southern Chin State. Located within Nat Ma Taung National Park, the mountain is covered in large rhododendron trees that bloom in a delightful riot of red, yellow and white flowers between October and February. It's an easy two- to three-hour climb (round trip) to the twin summits from the trailhead, accessed from the town of Kanpetlet.
Museum
Chin Antiques & Cultural Exhibition CentreTrained lawyer and maths teacher Robert Om Kee, son of Vakok vilage chief, has dedicated himself to this fascinating and tiny house museum. He'll quickly run through the diverse array of artefacts: animal skulls, enormous plug earrings, bamboo string instruments, jewellery, homemade guns, fossilised elephant teeth and clay, stone, silver and bronze objects that are more than 1000 years old. Donations appreciated. Robert hopes to expand the space into a more conventional museum, with exhibits and descriptions in English.
Village
Siang SawnThis rather strange, impeccably tidy village is an oddity in that it follows its own religion despite its proximity to heavily Christian Tiddim. In fact, all its inhabitants – about 60 families (some of whom wear traditional Chin clothing) – adhere to a faith that's overseen by the village spiritual leader. It's about 2 miles northeast of Tiddim. Follow the main road almost to the end of town, turn right and head downhill – locals will point the way.
Mountain
Kennedy PeakKennedy Peak stands 8868ft high, making it Chin State's second-highest mountain. The site of a battle between the British and Japanese in WWII, the peak is as yet untouched by tourism, so there are no known hiking routes to its summit. Instead, a rough road leads to the summit from Sozang village, about 15 miles from Tiddim on the road back to Kalaymyo, which hugs the base of the mountain.
Buddhist Temple
Yanpaymanpay PayaThis temple with a golden zedi (stupa) and a sitting, white-faced Buddha surrounded by five disciples looms over Falam from almost the highest point above the town. There are sublime views across the countryside from here: on a clear day you can really see for miles and miles. It's a steep 20-minute walk from the centre of town: take the road past Holy Guest House and KBZ Bank and keep walking uphill.
Church
Falam Baptist ChurchIt's not very old – dating back only to 1983 – but this is possibly the largest church in Chin State and it dominates Falam. It's worth checking it out on a Sunday, when it's packed and the sound of the congregation singing hymns can be heard throughout the centre of town.
Viewpoint
ViewpointThere are fine views over Hakha and the surrounding hills from this viewing platform about 1 mile outside town. To find it, follow Bo Gyoke Rd south past the football stadium and walk uphill for 25 minutes.
Viewpoint
Taung Pulu MonasteryThe steps to the top of this monastery, offering the best mountain views, especially at sunset, are lined with standing Buddha statues.