Pianma Border Port in Nujiang, Yunnan

Pianma Border Port (片马口岸) is located in the western part of Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, on the western slopes of the Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve. Situated in Pianma Town, Lushui County, it borders the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to the south, west, and north. This is the only provincial-level port in Nujiang Prefecture and has become an important gateway for external trade and economic development. Pianma is evolving into a multi-functional comprehensive port focusing on resource development, processing, and import-export trade.

Key Facts

Location: Western part of Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

Area: 153 square kilometers

Elevation: 1,897 meters

Port Classification: Provincial-level port

Climate: Temperate rainforest climate

Geographic Location

Pianma Border Port (片马口岸) is situated in the western part of Lushui County (泸水县), at the heart of the Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve’s western slopes. The port is 736 kilometers away from Kunming (昆明), the provincial capital, and is a vital shortcut for entering Myanmar, India, and Southeast Asia. It lies approximately 220 kilometers from Myitkyina (密支那), Myanmar, and provides a faster route to Southeast Asia and Europe, cutting travel time by 1,800 nautical miles compared to other routes through Kunming, Zhanjiang, and Guangzhou.

Border Crossing Guidelines

Border Crossing Policies

For Chinese Citizens Traveling to Myanmar:

• Travelers must obtain a Border Pass for the China-Myanmar Border Region or apply for an electronic visa for Myanmar.

• The electronic visa must be applied 1-3 business days in advance and costs approximately 50 USD. Necessary documents include a passport and itinerary.

For ASEAN Tour Groups:

• Tour groups of 2 or more people can enter via the Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) Port without a visa, but Pianma Port (片马口岸) is not yet included in the visa exemption policy.

Border Crossing Information

Location: Pianma Town (片马镇), Lushui County (泸水县), Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture (怒江傈僳族自治州)

Passenger Traffic: In 2024, the border crossing saw over 140,000 travelers, marking a 110% increase from the previous year.

Services at the Border

Multilingual Services: The port offers multilingual assistance (including Burmese, Lisu, etc.) and operates 24/7.

Convenience: Free green bean soup, homegrown fruits, and a “Gateway Fruit Language Wall” for collecting travelers’ suggestions are available in the waiting area.

Efficient Processes: Optimization measures include pre-filled “foreign entry cards” and “no-entry inspection cards” for Chinese vehicles.

Top Attractions

Pianma Border Gateway Scenic Area

This iconic border landmark is a symbol of China-Myanmar cultural exchange. The border marker park is a popular spot for photos and sightseeing, especially at night, where the Chinese side is brightly lit while the Myanmar side remains dim.

Anti-British Memorial Hall

This hall commemorates the historical efforts to protect the homeland during the Anglo-Burmese conflicts. It showcases precious artifacts and represents the spirit of ethnic unity.

Hump Line Memorial Hall

Free for visitors, this museum highlights the heroic history of the Hump Airlift during World War II, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Nujiang First Bend (怒江第一湾)

In Pianma (片马), the Nujiang River (怒江) makes a dramatic 180-degree bend. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the jade-colored waters and surrounding mountains from the observation deck.

Travel Guide

Driving Routes to Pianma

There are two main routes from Lushui (泸水) to Pianma (片马):

Provincial Road 316: 81 kilometers, with smooth road conditions, suitable for large vehicles.

Dishuihe Road (滴水河公路): 75 kilometers, with nearly 6 kilometers of steep slopes and sharp turns, ideal for motorcyclists or experienced drivers.

Note: The rainy season (June to August) may cause landslides, so it is recommended to avoid travel during this time.

Border Market Experience

Visitors can explore the local market where border residents from both China and Myanmar engage in mutual trade. Here, you can purchase Myanmar specialties like jade, coffee, and other regional goods.

Summer Perks

The checkpoint provides free green bean soup and homegrown fruits to help travelers refresh while waiting for border checks.

Interactive Wall

The “Gateway Fruit Language Wall” in the travel inspection hall encourages visitors to write suggestions or gratitude messages, with responses from local officers.

Pianma Border Port (片马口岸) plays an essential role in trade between China and Myanmar, providing access to Southeast Asia and beyond. With a rich history, cultural significance, and increasing traffic, it continues to be a key player in promoting economic exchanges in the region. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Pianma offers a unique experience with its scenic views, historical sites, and vibrant border market.