There is so much to do and see in Shan State, with its many attractions the opportunities are endless.
Taunggyi
Taunggyi is the capital of Shan States. It takes 45 minutes’ drive from Nyaung Shwe.
Shwe Phone Pwint and Sulamuni Pagoda are the highlight places to visit in
Taunggyi. Standing high on the edge of a mountain, you can see panoramic view
of the entire city and north of the Inle Lake can be seen from Shwe Phone Pwint
Pagoda. There is also Aytharya Vineyard on
the way to Taunggyi and can take a tour for Myanmar wine.
Kakku Pagoda
Kakku is a well worth visiting. It is a group of thousand pagodas. The villages of around Kakku is belongs to Pa-O trib. You can explore traditional lifestyles of Pa-O and their cultures.
Kalaw
Kalaw is one of the most peaceful and beautiful town of the
Shan State with refreshing climate, cool air, calming atmosphere and scenic
view. Colonial-era buildings are still remaining in the town. Kalaw offers a variety of options for
exploration.
There are various kinds of hikes available that suit most
fitness levels and itineraries. Places to visit in Kalaw are Kalaw Railway
Station, Hsu Taung Pye Paya, Aung Chan Tha Zedi, and Hnee Paya. Thein Taung
Paya and monastery is a good spot to enjoy the excellent view of Kalaw. Kalaw View Point which is located on the top of the hill is also an excellent place to enjoy
the panorama mountainous landscape. Do not miss a chance to visit Kalaw Market
when the five day market is in Kalaw. You can also visit to Myin Ma Hti Village
which is just around 30 minutes outside of Kalaw.
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Kalaw View Point |
Pindaya
Pindaya is one of Myanmar’s hidden gems for anyone who likes
cultures and arts. Pindaya is a good spot for photographing and viewing. On the
way to Phidaya, you will be amazed by agriculture landscape, patches of dark
and light green fields and seasonal filed of yellowish flowers blooming. Do not
forget to take pictures of those unique and beautiful sights of the area.
One of the top attraction places is Pindaya Cave, a massive limestone cave hosing thousands of Buddha sculptures.
Pindaya is a wonderful place to watch traditional Myanmar craftsmanship. Pindaya is also known for Shan paper. Visit family-run Shan paper making and umbrella making and see the process of how Myanmar handicrafts are made. Cigars making and Tea leaves workshop are also an interesting place to learn about Myanmar culture and lifestyles. And when you are in Myanmar, make sure to taste tea leave salad which is called as Laphet, one of the famous and delicacy local cuisine.
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Pindaya Cave |
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Pindaya Cave |
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Pindaya Cave |
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Traditional Umbrella making |
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Shan Paper making |
Ywa Ngan
Ywa Ngan is famous for coffee. Ywangan offer coffee tour for visitors to learn about all the processes of coffee. Well-known area in the region is Mainmaye Thakhinma Mountain, Myin Mu Hill, Myathabeik Blue Water Pond, Tawkye Waterfall and Yephyu Waterhole.