Discovering Kalaw In Myanmar – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Nestled amidst magnificent pine trees, the town of Kalaw has gained immense popularity among hikers. Consistently cool throughout the year, this sylvan provides the best vistas for hill walking in the British colonial landscape.

In Tayungyi District's Kalaw Township, Kalaw is a hill town in Shan State, Myanmar. With a plethora of activities and markets nearby, Kalaw is definitely worth exploring if you want to spend some time getting a taste of what it is like to be an authentic Burmese.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will learn about the town of Kalaw in Myanmar, exploring its history, cultural significance, attractions, activities, and practical tips for an unforgettable journey.

About the History Of Kalaw, Myanmar

This town has been famous since the British founded and built the British Colonial Hill Station, and that is the reason for the presence of railway tracks that are still in use today.

Not only that, but Kalaw is a hill station that is well-known for climbing and mountaineering, with numerous walking trails connecting adjacent locations to Inle Lake and Pindaya. Author Jan-Philipp Sendker also used Kalaw Myanmar as the backdrop for his novel "The Art of Hearing Heartbeats."

Kalaw's modern culture is influenced by many factors. Many Nepalese, Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh individuals who were brought to the town by the British to work on the railway construction still live there, along with other Hill Tribes like as Palaungs and Danus minority. This gives Kalaw its unique and rich cultural diversity.

Kalaw is a hill town in Shan State, Myanmar

Things You Need To Know For A Perfect Visit

Kalaw Weather

Kalaw is one of the loveliest towns that you must visit when in Myanmar, and there are plenty of reasons to wander around for a few days. One reason being –  Kalaw weather!

Kalaw's climate is far more comfortable than the scorching heat of the dry zone due to its elevation of 1320 meters above sea level; yet, in the winter, it can get fairly cold at night and early in the morning.

The town still has the feel of a high-altitude vacation spot because of the serene atmosphere, cool air, and scattered colonial-era buildings along the tree-lined avenues.

It was such a pleasure to breathe in the crisp, cool air of Kalaw after you had perspired profusely touring the Bagan temples! You can take short, breezy walks in the hills surrounding the town during the day, and at night you have to stay warm under a duvet (without air conditioning), which is definitely a novelty in Southeast Asia!

Read more: Weather in Myanmar

Best time to visit Kalaw Myanmar

The best time to visit Kalaw, Myanmar, is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to February. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius (50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This period is considered the peak tourist season due to the favorable weather conditions.

Avoiding the wet season, which occurs from June to September, is advisable as heavy rainfall can lead to muddy and challenging trekking conditions. The monsoon season may also bring landslides and road closures, impacting travel plans.

Although the dry season is generally preferred, keep in mind that Kalaw is a year-round destination. The months of March through May bring warmer temperatures, and the landscape is lush and green after the dry winter season. Despite the warmer weather, this period is still a good time to visit, especially if you enjoy the vibrant colors of nature.

Read more: Best time to visit Myanmar

The best time to visit Kalaw, Myanmar is during the dry season

Getting To Kalaw In Myanmar

There are many ways to visit Kalaw if you want to experience many interesting things here:

From Yangon to Kalaw

Travelers visit Kalaw from Yangon, board an overnight bus with a duration of 9 hours, or consider taking a flight to the nearby He Ho Airport, situated just 26 kilometers away. This transportation hub serves as a gateway to Inle Lake and the scenic Shan region.

From Bagan To Kalaw

Opt for a daytime minibus ride lasting approximately 6 hours, or choose the more luxurious VIP night bus to travel from Bagan to Kalaw. The bus extends its route to Inle Lake for those who prefer to continue their journey without a stopover in Kalaw.

Top Things To Do In Kalaw in 2024

Kalaw Trekking

For numerous travelers, the key allure of spending a day in Kalaw revolves around the exciting Kalaw trekking experiences, notably the 3-day journey to Inle Lake. Beyond the short amble to the viewpoint, there's another popular Kalaw trekking route leading to the Myint Mathi caves. This approximately 2-hour trek each way provides a captivating glimpse into the Shan State region.

Going on a stroll through peaceful pine forests and a little village is a wonderful way to explore Kalaw's surroundings.

Visit the local market

A must-visit location for an authentic Burmese experience is Kalaw’s marketplace, one of the famous places in Kalaw.

A modest market is held here every day, but every five days, people from the surrounding hill tribes join it, making it much bigger and more remarkable. As this is a local Burmese bazaar, you can be sure to have a great time here.

You may be let down if your expectation is to bring home particularly colorful souvenirs, but if all you want is to have a good time living like a local in Burma, this is the place for you! There are tons of local specialties to keep your eyes and stomach happy, so set a timer to avoid missing out on the excitement!

Local market in Kalaw is a must-visit location for an authentic Burmese experience

Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp

Elephant camp was established in 2011 and is a family-run facility focusing on humane practices. It is regarded as one of the nation's more responsible and environmentally friendly camps, caring for retired wood elephants that are unable to work anymore.

Take your time and do not worry too much; you can feed, wash, and pet the elephants while learning about their upkeep and replantation services. They also serve a traditional lunch!

A little Kalaw day spa

Head to this adorable little spa and wellness center near the train station in downtown Kalaw if you are in need of a massage; they provide Burmese, Swedish, and oil and aromatherapy massages in addition to body and foot cleanses, facials, manicures, and pedicures.

You may be sure that you are being pampered for a good cause because the spa is a humanitarian enterprise and its staff members are from underprivileged backgrounds in the neighborhood. The costs are also reasonable.

Shwe Oo Min Phaya (Temple Cave)

Discover the abundance of Buddha statues housed within these two caves! While Shwe Oo Min Phaya may not match the grandeur of larger caves like Saddan Cave in Hpa An, it still holds cultural significance, making it a worthwhile addition to your list of places to visit in Kalaw.

From the town core, it is about a 30-minute walk southwards (or much shorter if you hire a bike). The numerous Buddha sculptures found within create an intriguing exploration, making it one of the must-visit things to do in Kalaw.

Discover the abundance of Buddha statues housed in Kalaw

Explore Kalaw In Myanmar Today

As you embark on your journey to Kalaw in Myanmar, be prepared to be enchanted by its historical charm, cultural diversity, and natural wonders. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure that transcends expectations in the captivating town of Kalaw.

There's one essential step to ensure a seamless journey – applying for a Myanmar visa. By applying via the Myanmar Immigration Services website, you can simplify the process without visiting the embassy or consulate. Our user-friendly platform streamlines the visa application process, saving you time and effort. With a straightforward application form and clear instructions, obtaining your Myanmar visa becomes a hassle-free task.