The climate of the region is highly diverse, ranging from subtropical valleys to alpine peaks, creating lush biodiversity perfect for eco-travel. Favorite sights and activities include hiking or biking through the diverse landscape and varied climes of Hkakabo Razi National Park; birdwatching in the Putao Valley; and rafting the exciting, dynamic Nam Lang River.
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Go birding around the Putao Valley. While only 127 species have been recorded so far, it is believed that many more unidentified species make their home in the lush Alung Dung valley. Known species include the Great Hornbill, Collared Myna, Collared Treepie, Brown Dipper, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Silver-eared Mesia, Red-faced Liocichla, White-bellied Yuhina, Burmese Shrike and Green-backed Tit. In addition, the region boasts a wide range of butterflies, and over 523 species of orchids & rhododendrons.
After a scenic hike, visit an ethnic village in the vicinity. Because of the region’s proximity to India and China, a highly diverse tribal community exists, with Kachin, Shan, and even Naga people living within the area. After meeting with the locals and speaking with them about their lifestyle, browse the local market and see some of the handiwork of the villagers for sale.
Trek through the wilderness to visit Fort Hertz, one of the most isolated British fortresses in the history of the Empire. During World War II, Fort Hertz was cut off from the outside world for months after the Japanese occupied Burma; amazingly, it remained in British hands, and became one of the main bases for resistance to the Japanese occupation.
Explore Hkakabo Razi National Park, home to Hkakabo Razi, Southeast Asia’s highest mountain. Part of the southern reaches of the Himalayas, the summit at 19,295 feet is one of the region’s main attractions for intrepid mountaineers, but the park itself is rich in wildlife and flora, and an exceptional place for exploring the natural beauty of the land. The park is mountainous and mostly filled with broad-leaved rainforest, but its close proximity to the alpine peaks has led to exceptional biodiversity, much of which has yet to be discovered.
True to the original meaning of its name, Hkamti Long is still a place to find natural reserves of gold; the area provides work for panners, which remains one of the region’s most lucrative jobs.
Climb Phogun Razi. Located by the Myanmar–India border, Phogun Razi’s peak lies at 11,433 feet, making it a suitable trek for those wishing to scale the Himalayas. The trek will take you out of the subtropic rainforest and into a semi-deciduous forest, a notable change in climate as well as flora and fauna. From the peak, admire the lush valley and the distant mountains lining the horizon.
Go whitewater rafting on the Nam Lang River. A full day’s trip will take you through the mountains north of the hotel and into the exhilarating rapids that pass through them. Enjoy the pristine water rushing past you as you navigate technical rapids through tight bedrock canyons; once the danger has passed, enjoy your leisurely float downstream, which will drop you off at the foot of your hotel.
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Multi-Country Specialists
Remote Lands
Choose somewhere you’d like to visit, something you’re interested in, and when you’re planning to travel and we’ll suggest sample itineraries to inspire your bespoke journey.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands – a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
We’ve selected our top six Asian treks that truly stand out above the rest, from Nepal via Myanmar to Tibet…
Discover the mystical kingdom of Myanmar and uncover its hidden wonders in style. Travel aboard luxury cruisers and stylish liveaboard yachts to see Myanmar from a different angle, as you glide along her rivers, lakes and coastlines.
Behind the scenes of the gem traders milling around the pavements of Shwe Bon Than Road in downtown Yangon for a look into one of Southeast Asia’s most complex trades.
Here is a small selection of the kind words our guests have said about us, as well as features by journalists and travel writers.
From the moment I happened upon the REMOTE LANDS website over a year ago, browsed the options, I knew that this would be well worth it. The entire staff is nothing less than professional with service that made us feel like royals.
This was truly the trip of a lifetime. Magical destinations, the most luxurious hotels in the world, and the most wonderful travel companions we could’ve wished for. We were treated like family everywhere we went and we have 14 new best friends.
We have used some of the top rated travel specialists all over the world and, without question, Catherine Heald and Remote Lands are at the very top of the list!