Kayah
Despite being the smallest state in Myanmar, Kayah is mighty in size when it comes to diversity and amazing travel experience. Closed from visitors for nearly 50 years, the state’s reopening has allowed it to flourish as a hidden gem of Myanmar that shines with authenticity. Kayah is home to nine different ethnic groups, giving ample opportunities for tourists to discover the cultures and heritages. The most distinctive tribes are Kayah and Kayan. The Kayah people are known to dress in bright and red-coloured attire while the Kayans are easily recognized from the brass rings they wear on their neck. The humble town provides warm local hospitality and memorable hands-on experiences with the tribes through the Community-Based Tourism initiatives. Locals are more than happy to share their expertise and knowledge in various skills with tourists.
ORIGIN
Kayah has different types of tribes like Kayah, Kayan, Bre, Lahta, and Yinbaw. The people in the state practise Buddhism, Christianity and animism. The Kayah people speak Kayah Li, Myanmar/Burmese and limited English.
GEOGRAPHY
Kayah has a mountainous landscape and is located on the east side of Myanmar. The borders of this state are Shan State, Kayin State and Thailand. The state size is 11,731.5 sq km/4,529.6 sq mi. The highlands are generally wet and mildly hot whereas the lower areas have tropical and monsoon climates.
INTERESTING FACTS
Kayah people are animists and believe in spirits. There is a hydroelectric production dam in Kayah called 'Lawpita Dam'. Women in the Kayah group (Red Karen) still wear brass rings around their neck.
