Somra Tract

The Somra Tract is a remote mountainous region in northern Myanmar, forming part of the heartland of the Naga Hills and bordering the Indian state of Nagaland. The area is characterized by an extremely rugged topography, featuring deep V-shaped valleys and narrow ridges reaching elevations of over 2,000 meters. Historically, the Somra Tract remained isolated from external influences for a long period due to its inaccessibility, which contributed to the preservation of the traditional culture of the Naga peoples. Residents primarily practice shifting cultivation (jhum) and are renowned for their artisanal skills in weaving and wood carving. Vegetation is dominated by dense evergreen forests exhibiting high biodiversity and providing a habitat for rare animal species such as the clouded leopard. Politically, the region has often been the site of border disputes and autonomy movements, which hindered economic development. In recent years, cautious attempts have been made to improve infrastructure to better integrate the region with the rest of the country. The Somra Tract is a fascinating example of an untouched cultural landscape on the frontier between South and Southeast Asia.

Nearby cities

Monywa

A major commercial city on the Chindwin River, known for its giant Buddha statues.

Sagaing

The capital of the Sagaing Region, famous for its many Buddhist monasteries on the hills.

History & landmarks

Thanboddhay Pagoda

A colorful, unconventional temple complex in Monywa decorated with over half a million small Buddha images.

Nature

Chindwin River

The largest tributary of the Irrawaddy, flowing through picturesque valleys and dense jungles in the west.

More places

Zibyu Taungdan

A rugged sub-range in the northwestern part of the country, known for its steep inclines and relatively undisturbed habitats.

Mingin Taungdan

A deeply forested mountain ridge in the Sagaing Region, forming a part of the complex topography of the Chindwin basin.

Chindwin Valley

A distinct geographical basin in northwestern Myanmar, carved out by the Chindwin River through dense teak forests.

Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park

The largest and oldest national park in Myanmar, known for its dense forests and wildlife.

Pondaung Range

A prominent mountain ridge in the Magway and Sagaing regions, famous worldwide for its important paleontological fossil sites.

Kabaw Valley

A highland valley in the Sagaing Region, situated between the Chin Hills and the Chindwin River, known for its dense forests.

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Ponnyadaung Range

A mountain range running roughly parallel to the Pondaung Range, characterized by dry forests and seasonal streams.

Mount Saramati

The highest peak in the Naga Hills, straddling the border between Myanmar and the Indian state of Nagaland.