440 MEMOIR OF A SURVEY OF 



peak to the north, peeping from a mantle of light clouds, was very con- 

 spicuous from its superior height, and from its deep covering of pure white 

 snow, and the long ridge leading away from it to the westward was simi- 

 larly clothed, but streaked with shadows of delicate blue. On the E. 

 and W. were peaks heaped on one another in the utmost irregularity of 

 height and form, and at all distances. Our guide pointed out the direc- 

 tions of the two larger branches uniting to form the river, the Namkiu, by 

 which name the Khamtis distinguish the Irawadi throughout its course to 

 the sea, and the Namyen, the western branch. The mountain, at the source 

 of the latter, bearing 315°, and the former 345°. We could also perceive the 

 snow to the westward, some continuing as far round to the S. W. as 240°. 

 The plain we rode over is covered with low grass and crossed in seve- 

 ral directions by narrow belts of tree jungle, which mark some water 

 courses filled in the rains. A great part of this plain is said to have been 

 cultivated before the disturbances and dissensions introduced by the 

 Burmans; and there were many Khaphok villages on it. South of where 

 we stood, the river takes a bend inward towards the west, round the base of 

 a low ridge, which projects from the hills on that side. 



The climate appears very similar to that of Sadiya, at the same 

 period. After rain, the thermometer fell five or six degrees, and the air 

 was delightfully clear, while the sky was partially covered with thin 

 clouds ; but within three or four days, the atmosphere thickened, the 

 thermometer regained its highest range, and it became excessively close 

 till another storm relieved us. In the morning, at sun rise, the range 

 was from 72° to 78° in the shade, and at the hottest time of the day, 

 from 84° to 94°. The nights were comparatively cool and pleasant. 

 The duration of the rainy weather is about the same as in Asam. 

 Three or four months in the year, or from the 15th October to February, 

 may be calculated on as clear and dry, and the remainder is perfectly 

 uncertain — however, the heavy rains set in about the 15th June, and 

 continue to the 15th September. 



