Tribes and Villages of the Chin Hills 7 Days / 6 Nights

Meet and greet in Bagan and travel by 4WD to Saw via Chauk, on the western edge of the Mt. Victoria National Park. Once we passed Masadui village road goes up and we find ourselves on a ridge with 1200m in elevation. (Once we arrive to the Chin hills the weather gradually becomes cooler. It is a great escape from the heat and dust of Magwe plains during summer however it could get rather cold during winter months).

Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house in a hotel.

Total road distance 169 km, total driving time 7 hour

We drive to the trek head and from where we start trek in the wild part of Chin Hills. First, we cross a plain but right after we get in to the buffer zone of the National Park. We walk along the small path under the shade of large trees enjoying pristine forests fill with numerous birds and small mammals. On our left a steady flow on Mone Chaung river with its valley having backdrop of Mt. Mahura range. Behind these mountains lies Palawat township of Chin and beyond would be Rakhine highlands. Once we reach a road fork to Khoke village then our trek goes right through the National Park amongst the rich forests fill with wild orchids and birds. Trail goes mostly down and we reach Khoke village in the late afternoon. Khoke village, located slightly outside of the National Park. We have great time interact with the friendly locals, most of them have never seen foreigner.

Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house.

Total distance covered – 16km. Total trek time – 5 – 6 hours

We get up early and set off for our today destination of Sai Nan. The trekking trail follows along a valley and pass old Sai Nan village where we see many burial stone slabs and sacrificial posts. From here trek goes slightly up all the way to Yet Chaung village (aka Salinmintha). From here we continue trek along beautiful ridge Sai Nan. As soon as we have left Yet Chaung we will arrive to old village with ancient burial stone slabs. Sai Nan, is beautifully parched at 1399 meter at the shoulder of the range.

Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house in a hotel.

Total distance cover – 14 km. Total trek time – 6 – 8 hour approx.

We set up for our today destination at Kyi Kwin. At first trail goes down through farmland but once we cross creek from where trail goes straight up through a farm land but once we get on to the ridge trail become gentle till we get to another small creek. After the creek trail goes up all the way till we get to the upper ridge of the mountain fill with healthy forests covers with wild flowers. This is the place one usually spot many wild animals like Civet and many kinds of bird species. This trail was originally built by the British but serving nicely with gentile ups and downs. Today we stay on a short distance on a dirt road but amongst heavy forested land but soon enough we get back to mule trek. Kyi Kwin, located at 1367 meter above sea level on the side of a hill looking wide open view of the mountains.
Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house in a hotel.

Total distance cover – 12km. Total trek time – 6 – 8 hour approx.

We follow along the hunting trail as usual enjoying the view. First trail goes down all the way to a creek and from here trail goes straight up but once we get to the road head we stay on a smaller trek path leads to Makhon Htui. Here we stay on the dirt road for one hour or so and get off to mule trails that lead us to Aukviton village. Today is the first day of getting a view of Kanpetlet, small town perched on the slopes of the Mt Victoria mountain range.
Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house in a hotel.

Total distance cover – 14km. Total trek time – 5 – 6 hour approx.

Last trekking day brings us to Kanpetlet. We follow a small dirt road in accessible for vehicles which has become path overgrown with vegetation. The first part of the trek leads us to Saw creek where we enjoy a picnic lunch and have a good rest and swim in the crystal clear and refreshing water. From here the trail ascends and offers us some nice views over the cultivations and forests. There are also many birds around for those who are interested in bird watching. Rub shoulders with Chin villagers and enjoy traditional Chin food and Khaung Ye (traditional beer made of millet) and enjoy a traditional Chin cultural show.
Overnight stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Local house in a hotel.

Total distance coer-14km, Total trek time- 4-5 hours.

Time for exploring Kanpetlet and its surroundings and visit Chin villages where local ladies this practice tradition of facial tattooing. Each southern Chin ethnic group has their own patterns and styles. Later on the day we set off for Saw and Bagan, diving down from Chin Hills along winding roads. Arrive to Bagan early evening and check in to your hotel.
Total road distance 169km, total driving time 7 hour.