Taunggyi

Taunggyi is the capital and largest city of Shan State in Myanmar. It is the fifth largest city in the country. The name Taunggyi means "big mountain" in Burmese. This name refers to a ridge on the east side of the city. This ridge is part of the Shan Hills system. A high point on this ridge is called Taung-chun. Locals also call this point the "Auspicious Spur." Another popular feature of this ridge is Chauk Talone, which means "the Craigs."

The city sits on a high intermontaine basin. Some people mistakenly call this area a plateau. The land drops away rapidly to the western lowland river valleys. These valleys are part of central Myanmar. Taunggyi is surrounded by a mountain range. It is located on a wide shoulder of the Sittaung Hills. The city is at an elevation of 1,435 meters above sea level. This high location influences the local climate. Taunggyi has a humid subtropical climate. This is known as the Cwa classification in the Köppen climate system. The city borders a subtropical highland climate.

Taunggyi has two distinct seasons. There is a winter dry season from December to March. There is also a summer wet season from April to November. Temperatures remain very warm throughout the entire year. However, the winter months from December to February are milder. During these months, the nights can become quite cool. This weather pattern defines the daily life of the region. The mountains help shape these seasonal changes.

The history of Taunggyi began as a small Shan village. It was originally called Tonti. The town changed when it was incorporated into British Burma. Modern development began in 1894. At that time, the British moved their administrative offices to Taunggyi. They moved from Maing Thauk on the shores of Inle Lake. They chose the higher elevation for health and geographical reasons. By 1906, the town had grown to include one thousand houses. During the early 1900s, Taunggyi served as a garrison for military police. It also became a supply center for the Shan States.

Taunggyi is a very diverse place for its people. The 2014 Myanmar Census reported a population of 381,639 for the township. The population is made up of many different ethnic groups. Approximately 45% of the people are Pa'O. About 35% are Bamar people. Additionally, 6% of the population are Shan, also known as Tai people. This diversity is visible in the many religious sites. Buddhist monasteries are scattered throughout the city. There is also a significant Christian population. St. Joseph's Cathedral serves as the headquarters for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Taunggyi. An Anglican church also exists, though it has fallen into disrepair. Four mosques serve the Muslim communities. The Panthay mosque serves Chinese Panthay Muslims.

The city is famous for its vibrant culture. People often call it the "City of Music." It is known for its live music and many festivals. The most famous event is the hot air balloon festival. This is held annually on the full-moon day of Tazaungmon. This is the eighth month of the traditional Burmese calendar. The festival features pyrotechnic rockets. These rockets have caused injuries and deaths in past years. The festival has gained international attention. The city also hosts the Shan State Cultural Museum. This museum shows Shan culture and items belonging to the Sawbwa.

Taunggyi is also a center for education and sports. The city has several large institutions. These include Taunggyi University and the University of Computer Studies. There is also the Taunggyi University of Medicine. For sports, the city has a 7,000-seat stadium. This stadium is the home ground for Shan United FC. This is a Myanmar National League football club. The economy relies on farming and gardening. Local farmers grow potatoes, tea leaves, and tomatoes. They also grow beans, damson, and seasonal fruits. While industry is not significant, the city remains a key part of the Myelat region.