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Perched on top of a mountain, Taunggyi (တာင္ႀကီး) is the capital of Shan State and by far the biggest city in eastern Myanmar. A multicultural town with a majority Shan population and significant Chinese, Muslim and Christian communities, Taunggyi is principally a trading post. Its markets are piled high with Chinese and Thai goods trucked in via the border crossings at Mong La and Tachileik, and destined to be sold on wholesale to markets in Yangon and Mandalay.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Taunggyi.
Vineyard
Located at Aythaya, 3 miles west of Taunggyi, this vineyard – the country's first – sits at an elevation of 4290ft on well-watered, limestone-rich soils, providing good growing conditions for Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin blanc and moscato grapes. It's open daily for tours, tastings and wine sales. There's an attached restaurant which serves pricey Western and Shan food.
Buddhist Temple
This ridge-top temple to the south of town has dizzying views over Taunggyi and Inle Lake; a return trip by taxi here will cost about K10,000.
Museum
In addition to the usual displays of local ethnic-group outfits, you’ll also find a handful of exhibits of weapons, musical instruments and jewellery. There's also a small section on Shan State's saophas (sky princes), who ruled Shan State until the colonial era. English-language captions are in short supply.
Church
Smaller than its Catholic counterpart and in need of some repairs, this is the main church for Taunggyi's Anglican community. The church is locked outside of services, but if the vicar is around he will unlock it so you can look inside.
Cathedral
The principal place of worship for Taunggyi's Roman Catholics. The church dates back to 1873, but was rebuilt in 1951. The cathedral is closed outside of services, but can be accessed if the priest is about.
Buddhist Temple
On the southern outskirts of town, this huge white temple complex has a gilded corncob stupa that pays tribute to the Ananda Pahto in Bagan.
Buddhist Temple
A Buddhist temple that features gaudy statuary and a pagoda styled after the Mahabodhi temple at Bodhgaya in India.
Market
Taunggyi's main market is the busiest place in town from the early morning to the mid-afternoon.
Buddhist Temple
This Buddhist temple in the southwest of Taunggyi is dominated by a 60ft-high standing Buddha.