Taunggyi

Taunggyi is the capital of Shan State, Myanmar. Taunggyi has an estimated population of 205,000 in 2010, which is the fourth largest city in Myanmar (behind Mawlamyine), and at an altitude of 1,436 m above sea level. The name Taunggyi means "big mountain" in Burmese named after the ridge to the east mountain slope of the city. The mountain slope has a convex spot called Chauk Talone.

Although located in the Shan State, Shan people are not the dominant inhabitants of this city. Intha and Pa-O are the original inhabitants of the Shan Plateau. However, there are cultural and linguistical differences in the Shans. Recently, a wave of Chineses immigrate. Taunggyi is situated in the Myelat area of Shan State.

Taunggyi is famous for the annual balloon festival held in November called Taunggyi Tazaungdaing Festival - one of the most spectacular festivals in Myanmar. Contests take place during the night. The colorful balloons are flying in the sparkling night sky. The festival also marks the end of the rainy season in Myanmar. In addition, the famous tourist attractions in Taunggyi are Inle Lake, Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery, Shan State Cultural Museum & Library, Shwe Phone Pye Paya, Old Market, New Market và St George Anglican Church, etc.