Hsipaw Off The Beaten Path

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Although this place is actually many miles away from Hsipaw, I've had to include it here as the VT machinery doesn't allow for a Goktiek page. In fairness, it's not so much of a problem as the only way you are going to see this amazing sight is if you are travelling on the Hsipaw - Mandalay train.

This remarkable structure was built for the British colonial power in 1903 by the Pennsylvania Steel company. Amazingly, given the obvious logistical problems and the scale of the project, it only took nine months to complete.

I had read in my guide book that the insurance policy for the viaduct provided by the British had long since expired, which certainly focused the mind as you approach it. The views are quite stunning and the vertigo almost overpowering (I'm not good with exposed heights). Unfortunately, the photography doesn't quite do it justice as there is nothing to give you a sense of scale. Take my word for it, it is very high!

Theoretically, you are not supposed to photograph anywhere near the viaduct. Apparently it's some sort of military secret, albeit that a quick Google search pulls up 78 images of it. Bizarrely enough, the man in the seat next to me who happened to be a military officer (I didn't have a choice in this, although he seemed civil enough) actually offered to swap seats with me as we approached so I could get a better picture!