Loikaw is a small, picturesque city found on the flat plains of northern Kayah state. As well as having a number of sights within the city – including the Taung Kwe Zedi, a stunning double hill-top monastery to rival Mount Popa and the Golden Rock – Loikaw makes a great base to explore the surrounding tribal areas. Scarcely-touched Padaung villages (home of the famous long-necked ladies) are very close by, nestled in rolling green hills an hour outside of the city. There are also a mix of Paduang and Kayah villages within the city limits – some are more developed than others but all are of great interest. Both ethnic groups are predominantly Christian, and you will find a number of picturesque churches around the area, including a large, pretty cathedral around the corner from our preferred accommodation.