Kalaw

Around 80 miles south of Mandalay, and a 3-day hike from Inle Lake, Kalaw is a beautiful little mountain village that’s home to members of the Shan community and many others. Once the base for a British hill station, vestiges of its bustling past remain in a handful of grand, faded buildings dotted between gilded stupas and low-rise houses. Its lively market is all about local life – no mass-produced trinkets here, just herbs, spices and plenty of tempting food to try.

Three things to do in Kalaw

Obviously there’s a lot more, this is just to get you started…

Cool climate for trekking

Kalaw’s higher-altitude climate is cool and refreshing, creating perfect conditions for trekking. There are many different trails leading up into the mountains, all of which offer stunning views across Inle Valley as a reward when you reach the highest ground. A particularly well-loved route is the 3-day trek to Inle Lake, which is consistently voted one of the most beautiful treks in the world. Follow one of several routes, each of differing challenge, that take you through remote villages, fields and forest, and past traditional longhouses, tea plantations and monasteries.

Kalaw

Market meandering

Taking a wander through a local market is always a fantastic way to fall into step with the daily rhythms of a place; to see the comings and goings of an ordinary day. Kalaw’s market is a hub for local life where you can buy everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to dried herbs, spices and pulses, to clothes and locally-crafted artisan pieces. Grab a delicious bowl of Shan noodles packed with chilli, garlic, tomatoes and pickles to keep you going, or opt for a handful of crunchy fried crickets if you’re feeling adventurous!

Kalaw market

Sanctuary for elephants

A short journey through the Shan Hills takes you to Magwe and the Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp: a sanctuary for elephants that were once worked in the region’s logging industry. The team is on hand to give visitors an introductory overview of the project, the conservation, and their work within the local community, before taking you a short walk away to the elephant village. Visitors can meet the mighty residents and assist the mahouts in feeding them, before following the herd down to the river. Re-plantation is another major focus at Green Hill Valley, and visitors can get involved by planting a tree themselves: a fantastic souvenir to leave behind.

Speak to one of our Concierge specialists

meet
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Concierge specialists
Tailored Itineraries with Kalaw Tours

With a tailor-made trip to Kalaw , you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. Let Myway help you to create your perfect itinerary.

MAP VIEW
LIST VIEW

Myanmar ⟩ Putao

Myanmar ⟩ Hsipaw

Myanmar ⟩ Hill Station Train

Myanmar ⟩ Kengtung

Myanmar ⟩ Loikaw

Myanmar ⟩ Mawlamyine & Hpa An

Myanmar ⟩ Kyaiktiyo

Myanmar ⟩ Ayeyarwady

Myanmar ⟩ Ngapali Beach

Myanmar ⟩ Sittwe

Photos of Kalaw


Discover Asia with our multi-day cycling adventures, suitable for riders of any skill level. Count on our quality bikes, knowledgeable guides, and excellent support for an incredible experience.

Tailor-made design

Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime through our exceptional and inspiring travel experiences.

True experiences

Embark on an enriching journey to explore the world, where every sight, sound, and encounter offers valuable insights and learning opportunities.

Connect people

Reconnect with nature, engage with diverse cultures, and rejuvenate your senses through immersive travel experiences.

Connect with a certified specialist to begin planning your trip.

Feel free to call one of our experts or schedule a video appointment for personalized ideas and advice.

Make an Inquiry

    • James
    • Asia Specialist
    • Linh
    • Thailand and Asia Specialist
    • Loc
    • Vietnam Specialist

Get the latest from Amazing Bike Tours: Sign up to our newsletter

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Give us a call: +84 988 600 388

Send an email: info@amazingbiketours.com

Or fill in the form below and we’ll be in touch