Phangran Razi (Phongkan / Phongun Razi)

4,328 m (14,199 ft)

This expedition takes between 11 and 13 days for the trekking portion, but about 15 days if you include the time it takes to get to and from Puta-O, the starting point, at the start and the end of the trek.

The terrain encountered on this trek varies as you progress. The journey is suitable for fit hikers. The terrain is a challenge but the distance is likely what makes the Phangran Razi expedition difficult. 

The first few days of the trek wind through rural local villages.  Once you’ve made your way past the villages, you’ll enter the jungle, where you’ll cross rivers and suspension bridges. 

The route goes along a river valley which passes through a variety of vegetation such as bamboo forests, rhododendrons, pine trees and paddy fields as the elevation increases. For much of the trek, you’ll find yourself in the tropical rainforest. 

In the higher reaches, you’ll have a fantastic view of the snow-capped mountains on one side of the you and the forest on the other side. You’ll cross rivers many times and the terrain undulates periodically. 

The summit assault from Phongun Razi base camp takes about 4-6 hours. You’ll be treated to a great view of Mount Phongun, Mount Phonyin and Mount Phangram. 

You’ll go up a narrow, rocky route with a steep dropoff to get to the peak. It is steep and usually covered with snow. The scenery from the peak is beautiful. You’ll be surrounded by snowy peaks, untouched wilderness below and sparkling rivers winding beneath you.

Puta-O has a subtropical climate. It is dry and mild from November to May and hot and humid from June to October. 

The average yearly temperature is 21°C (69°F). The hotter months average high temperatures of about 29°C (84°F) and average lows of about 22°C (72°F). The coldest months average high temperatures of 20°C (68°F)  and average lows of about 8°C (47°F).

From June to September when it rains a lot, many of the hotels in the area are closed. Take this into consideration when planning your climb.

A good time to plan a climb is between November and May. This is the drier period of the year and when snow starts to fall on the peaks.

Most tour operators will provide a mat to sleep on, and food. Liaise with your tour operator to find out if you will need to bring tents and other camping equipment. You will usually need to provide your own sleeping bags.

Other useful items to pack are quick drying clothing as you will cross countless rivers, insect repellent, and hiking poles.

The first couple of days are often spent in guesthouses. There are several camps where you will camp along the way. These camps are just flat areas to pitch your tent. Your tour guide will usually provide food.

A guide is necessary and required. You will also need a permit to enter the area – this is often organised by your tour operator. Tour operators are easily found online.

Phangran Razi is located about 90 km (56 mi) northwest of Puta-O, Kachin State, Myanmar. This is right at the top of Myanmar near its border with India and China.

This area is only accessible through an organised tour group, often only by air. The reason for this is ongoing conflict in the area.

Historically Puta-O was safe even for single travellers and women, however, in recent years there has been conflict and tension in Kachin State. Check if visiting the area is safe and possible before planning your trek.

There has also been at least one record of a fatality on the mountain from falling into an icy ravine near the summit. Be careful when descending.