Hkakabo Razi
Mountain Myanmar's highest peak, remote glaciated mountain in Kachin
Hkakabo Razi in Kachin State is Myanmar’s highest peak, a remote glaciated mountain on the eastern edge of the Himalaya‑Karst zone. Expeditions are technically demanding and logistically complex.
Hkakabo Razi is the highest mountain in Myanmar, located in the far north of Kachin State and often cited as one of the tallest peaks in Southeast Asia. Its summit rises to an elevation of approximately 5,881 metres above sea level.
The mountain and surrounding ranges are part of a remote frontier region long known to local peoples; the first recorded ascent of Hkakabo Razi was made in 1996. Since then the mountain has seen only a small number of expeditions due to access difficulties and permitting.
Hkakabo Razi lies in northern Kachin State near Myanmar’s borders with Tibet and India, within a landscape of high peaks and deep river valleys; the usual approach begins from the town of Putao and involves weeks of trekking through dense forest and alpine terrain.
- Access and remoteness: Reaching the mountain requires lengthy, multi-week expeditions through challenging terrain and is typically attempted from the town of Putao in northern Kachin State.
How to Get to Hkakabo Razi #
Hkakabo Razi lies in Myanmar’s far north and is only reachable by an extended overland trek from the town of Putao in Kachin State. The usual access route is to fly into Putao (seasonal flights from Myitkyina and sometimes Yangon or Mandalay via connections), then arrange a long, multi‑day expedition with experienced local guides and porters into the highlands.
There are no direct road links from major cities to the mountain; reaching Hkakabo Razi requires significant trekking logistics, permits and local support arranged in Putao.
Tips for Visiting Hkakabo Razi #
- Approach Hkakabo Razi from Putao in Kachin State; all climbs and long treks start from Putao, where experienced local outfitters and necessary logistical support are based.
- This is a remote, multi‑week expedition into very challenging terrain-obtain permits, arrange an experienced local guiding company in Putao, and allow ample extra time for weather delays and trek logistics.
- The best window is the dry season (roughly November-April); expect lengthy jungle approaches, river crossings and highly variable conditions, so plan conservative schedules and emergency contingencies.
Best Time to Visit Hkakabo Razi #
If attempting Hkakabo Razi or trekking in the area, aim for the drier months (roughly October-April) when access is most reliable, keeping in mind extreme cold at altitude.
Weather & Climate near Hkakabo Razi #
Hkakabo Razi's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -18°C to 7°C. Moderate rainfall (754 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -18°C. The driest month with just 11 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -16°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (146 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -12°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -16°C. The driest month with just 11 mm.
