Kalaw

Myanmar (Burma), Asia

Kalaw, nestled in the Shan State of Myanmar, is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural tapestry. Here, you can embark on beautiful trekking adventures through lush hills, explore vibrant local markets, and experience the ethnic diversity of the area. Its cooler climate makes it a perfect escape from the tropical heat elsewhere. Don't miss the breathtaking views at the Calvary Church and the serene beauty of Inle Lake nearby!

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Heho

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Kalaw

1

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Trek to Inle Lake

Experience stunning landscapes and local culture on foot.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kalaw Market

Explore vibrant local produce and handicrafts.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Shwe Oo Min Pagoda

Marvel at the unique caves filled with Buddha images.

No booking required
4

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Christ the King Church

See beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Try Shan Noodles

Savor local flavors of this traditional dish.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Pine Forests

Relax in the cool, tranquil pine tree environment.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Local Festival

Immerse in local culture and traditions through festivities.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bicycle Tour around Kalaw

Cycle through stunning landscapes and quaint villages.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Akha Village

Experience the culture of the Akha ethnic group.

No booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp

Interact with and learn about rescued elephants.

Booking required
11

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Railway Station

See the colonial architecture and local trains.

No booking required
12

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Trek to Pindaya Caves

Explore stunning limestone caves filled with Buddha statues.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Kyat

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Burmese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mohinga

Fish soup with rice noodles. (National dish)

Shan Noodles

Noodles with meat and herbs.

Laphet Thoke

VE

Tea leaf salad with various toppings.

Ohn No Khao Swe

Coconut chicken noodle soup.

Burmese Curry

Spicy meat curry with rice.

Phrases to learn

English

Burmese

Hello

Mingalaba

(Min-gah-lah-bah)

Yes/No

Ho de / Ma ho bu

(Ho-de / Ma-ho-boo)

Thank you

Cè-zù tin-ba-deh

(Sey-zoo tee-in-bah-deh)

Excuse me

Ta wa hma

(Ta-wah-mah)

How much?

Behlout?

(Beh-lout)