Kyaukme was a bit of a lucky accident: originally, we planned on heading to Hsipaw to do some hiking in the mountains. Then, our guesthouse owner in Pyin Oo Lwin suggested we head to Mogok, a relatively un-touristed town known for its gem business. That idea lasted one night until the next morning he told us about some possible rebel-government fighting in the area near Mogok – not something that interested us. So, he recommended yet another option: Kyaukme. As a less-touristed option to visit mountain villages, our research made it seem like a great option, so we headed there. The benefits of a flexible itinerary!