Taunggyi is the capital of Shan State, Myanmar. Taunggyi has a population of approximately 200,000, making it the fourth largest city in Myanmar and is at an elevation of 4,590 feet (1,400 m) above sea level. The name Taunggyi means "big mountain" in the Burmese language, and is named after the ridge on the east of the city, and the prominent high point on it is called the Taung-chun or "The Crag." Although within the Shan State, the Shans are not the predominant population of this city. The Inthas and the Pa-Os form the most visible population. Recently there has been a flood of Chinese immigrants.
Taunggyi Tazaungdaing Festival, held annually in the month of November, is accompanied by communal Kahtein padethapin (meaning "tree of plentiful items") procession, Mathoe Thingan or Non-stale robe-weaving ceremony, procession with lighted candles and hot-air balloon competiton. The hot-air balloons are made up of hand-made paper beautifully designed with colorful fireworks.
