Shan State

Shan State is located in the middle eastern part of Myanmar between 19* 17' N and 24* 13' N latitudes and 96* 10' E and 101* 11' E longitudes. It is bounded on the north-east by the China, on the south-east and south by Laos and Mandalay Division on the west and Kayah State and Karen State on the south. The area is 60155 square miles and the Capital is Taunggyi.

Shans as well as Paos, Palaungs, Dhanus, Was, Kaws, Lahus, Inthas, Myaungzis, Lishaws, Taungyoes, Maingthas, Yingyas, Kachins, Kayans and Burmans inhabit the State. The State Day is 7th February.

Agriculture is the main economic activity of Shan State, principal crops being paddy, wheat, chilli, cotton, potatoes, groundnut, sessamum, pulses, tea and Virginia tobacco. Shan State's cold climate also allows cultivation of oranges, peaches, pears, damsons, apples, grapes, onions, pineapples, vegetables and thanatphet trees.

The State also produces valuable minerals such as gold, silver, lead, zinc, copper, iron, tin, antimony, coal, tungsten and precious stones.

In the mining sector, Namtu-Bawdwin Silver Mine, Yadanatheingi Mine, Bawsaing Mine are being expanded and in handicrafts, cottage weaving industry of Inlay area in southern Shan State is famous.

Gokteik viaduct and Kunhein bridge play important roles in communications in the State.

In Pinlong there is a stone pillar monumental in the history of Myanmar's struggle for freedom. The pillar is a monument to the unity of all national races under the leadership of Bogyoke Aung San.

Places of interest

• Inle Lake, sea among the hazy Shan mountains.
• Padalin Cave of the stone age culture
• Magnificent Gok-teik Bridge
• Hsipaw Bawgyo Pagoda
• Kuckoo Village
• Kalaw Hill Station
• Pindaya Cave