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Trekking around Kalaw is one of the most popular and rewarding activities for travelers visiting Shan State in Myanmar. Kalaw, a former British hill station nestled at about 1,300 meters above sea level, is surrounded by green hills, pine forests, tea plantations, and ethnic villages. It has become a starting point for some of the most scenic and culturally rich treks in Southeast Asia.
Whether you're an experienced trekker or a first-timer, Kalaw offers a variety of trekking routes ranging from short one-day walks to multi-day journeys — most famously the Kalaw to Inle Lake trek. Along the way, you'll pass through Pa-O, Danu, Palaung, and Taung Yo villages, offering a chance to experience rural life and traditional hospitality.
The nearest airport to Kalaw is Heho Airport, located about 45 kilometers away. Heho is well-connected by domestic flights from major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw. From the airport, you can take a taxi or minivan to Kalaw, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Kalaw is also accessible by road and rail. Buses and private cars frequently run from cities such as Mandalay, Bagan, Taunggyi, and Inle Lake. If you prefer a more scenic journey, you can take a train from Thazi — the ride offers picturesque views of the mountains, though it's slow.
Once in Kalaw, trekking agencies, guides, and hostels can help you plan and start your trek easily.
Kalaw enjoys a cool, temperate climate year-round thanks to its elevation. The best time for trekking is during the dry season (November to February), when the weather is cool and the trails are dry. Daytime temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making hiking pleasant.
The summer months (March to May) are warmer and drier, still suitable for trekking, but it can get hot in the afternoons. The monsoon season (June to October) brings lush scenery, but also muddy trails, making trekking more difficult.
Treks can start as early as 7:00 AM and typically end by late afternoon or evening, depending on the distance. Multi-day treks start early on the first day and finish by noon or afternoon on the last day.
The Kalaw to Inle Lake trek usually takes 2 to 3 days and involves walking 5–6 hours per day, covering around 40–60 kilometers. For shorter treks, such as half-day or full-day village walks, you can start mid-morning or after breakfast.
Trekking around Kalaw is famous for its combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and physical adventure. It offers a chance to walk through misty forests, rolling hills, terraced farms, and ethnic villages untouched by modern development.
Trekkers often highlight the hospitality of the local villagers, homemade food, and the opportunity to sleep in rural homes or monasteries. The final destination for many is Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s top attractions, which adds even more value to the experience.
Trekking in Kalaw does not require a permit for most tourists, and there are no official entry fees. However, hiring a local guide or joining a tour is highly recommended for safety and to enhance the experience.
Guided treks are affordable and typically include meals, accommodation (homestays or monasteries), and luggage transport if needed. Prices for a 2-day trek range from $20 to $40 USD per person, depending on group size and included services.
It’s advisable to book through a local trekking agency or your hotel/guesthouse in Kalaw a day in advance.
Kalaw was established as a hill station by the British during the colonial era due to its cool climate. Today, it retains much of its colonial charm with old buildings, churches, and gardens.
The trekking routes wind through remote areas inhabited by various ethnic groups including the Pa-O, Palaung, Danu, and Taung Yo people. These communities have preserved their unique customs, dress, and languages, making the trek as much a cultural journey as a physical one.
