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Taunggyi

geography Maturity 11-13 Next article →

Taunggyi is the capital city of Shan State in Myanmar.

3 Taunggyi (2)
3 Taunggyi (2)

It is the fifth largest city in the whole country. The name Taunggyi means "big mountain" in the Burmese language. This name comes from a high ridge on the east side of the city. This ridge is part of the Shan Hills system. A famous high point on this ridge is called Taung-chun. Some people also call it the "Auspicious Spur." Another popular part of the ridge is called Chauk Talone.

The city sits in a high basin surrounded by mountains. It is a very high place compared to the river valleys nearby. The weather stays warm throughout the year. There is a dry season from December to March. The wet season lasts from April to November. During the winter months, the nights can feel quite cool. The city is a busy place for many different groups of people. In 2014, the population of the township was 381,639.

Taunggyi has a long and changing history. It started as a small Shan village called Tonti. Later, it became part of British Burma. In 1894, the British moved their offices to Taunggyi. They moved from Inle Lake to this higher place for health reasons. By 1906, the town had grown to include one thousand houses. During the early 1900s, it served as a place for military police. It also became a center to supply goods to the Shan States.

Many different cultures live together in this city. About 45% of the people are Pa'O. Another 35% are Bamar, and 6% are Shan people. You can see this mix in the many places people go to pray. There are many Buddhist monasteries found throughout the city.

Taunggyi Chinese temple
Taunggyi Chinese temple

There is also a large Christian community.

St. Joseph's Cathedral is a very important center for Catholics.

Taunggyi St.George Anglican Church
Taunggyi St.George Anglican Church

You can also find an Anglican church and several mosques. Some temples also serve the Chinese Buddhist community.

Taunggyi is a very lively place with many things to do. People call it the "City of Music" because of its many festivals. One famous event is the hot air balloon festival. This happens every year on the full moon of Tazaungmon. The festival is known for using pyrotechnic rockets. The city is also a place for learning and sports. It has several large universities and a 7,000-seat stadium. Local farmers grow many things like tea, tomatoes, and beans.

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File:3 Taunggyi (2).jpg
3 Taunggyi (2).jpg
File:Taunggyi Chinese temple.jpg
Taunggyi Chinese temple.jpg
File:St. Josephs Cathedral Taunggyi.jpeg
St. Josephs Cathedral Taunggyi.jpeg
File:Taunggyi St.George Anglican Church.jpg
Taunggyi St.George Anglican Church.jpg
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