Located on the Hkamtilon Plain, Putao was once known as Fort Hertz, in honour of the British District Commissioner, Capt. Hertz. The original fort building can still be seen.
Putao is the starting point for many scientific expeditions towards Mount Hkakaborazi and beyond.
There are many ethnic villages around Putao; Rawangs, Lisus & Hakmti Shans, etc. The Rawangs are also of the Kachin stock and many of their rituals are similar. They celebrate the Manaw as the Kachins. A couple of years ago, the Rawangs also held a Manaw Festival in Putao.
Putao is at the center of many interesting trekking routes. Machanbaw is close by, approximately 10 miles away & easily accessible. Nogmong is a little father away; about seven trekking days away & along the way are many Rawang & Lisu villages.
White water rafting is also available to the more intrepid travellers and it is possible to experience overnight rafting expeditions on the headwaters of the Ayerwaddy River as well as as a variety of day excursions by raft, kayak mountain bike or by foot.