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ith the holiday season just around the corner, why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the quaint mountain town of Kalaw in Myanmar? Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or just someone looking for a change of pace from your everyday life, there’s something for everyone in Kalaw. Kalaw is an ideal destination for the chillier months of the year! With its pleasant chilly climate, picturesque landscape and interesting culture, Kalaw is most certainly the perfect gateway for your Xmas Holiday.

Breathtaking Views of Kalaw 

Kalaw is located in Shan State, near Inle Lake. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike due to its stunning views and moderate climate. The town itself has a laid-back atmosphere; it's filled with small guesthouses, restaurants, shops, and interesting sights like ancient pagodas. Kalaw has some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Myanmar. From mountain ranges to lakes, there's something for everyone. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you can take advantage of the hiking trails around Kalaw or take a boat ride across Inle Lake near Taunggyi. You'll be surrounded by lush greenery, sparkling water, and unforgettable views that will make your trip memorable. 

Cultivated Land Fields in Kalaw

Things to do in Kalaw

When you visit Kalaw, you can also enjoy activities like trekking through pine forests, visiting rural villages to learn about traditional customs, and taking cooking classes with local chefs. For those who want to stay active while on vacation, there are plenty of opportunities to go rock climbing or play golf at one of many courses nearby. And if you're looking for something more relaxing, there are hot springs and spas where you can unwind after a long day of exploring. 

Trekking Tourists in Kalaw
Trekking route in Kalaw

Must Visit places in Kalaw

Kalaw Market 

The Kalaw market is home to some of the freshest produce available in Myanmar. Here you can find almost anything your heart desires – from fruits and vegetables to clothing and souvenirs. It’s also a great place to pick up some local snacks or sample traditional dishes like Shan noodles, fried tofu and tea-leaf salads. The best part is that everything is incredibly affordable!

Shan Deep Fried Tofu and Tofu Salad 

Shwe Oo Min Pagoda 

If you want to experience a truly unique religious experience, then head over to Shwe Oo Min Pagoda. This stunning temple was built by King Bayint Naung in 1593 and features intricate carvings on its walls as well as beautiful statues of Buddha throughout its grounds. A visit here will give you an insight into the religious culture of Myanmar while offering breathtaking views at the same time. 

Pindaya Cave

Located only an hour away from Kalaw is the Pindaya Cave – one of Myanmar’s most important religious sites. Inside these limestone caves are thousands of Buddha statues which were placed there by pilgrims over hundreds of years making this site both historically significant as well as visually captivating. The site also offers stunning views out over the surrounding countryside – perfect for those who love taking photographs!  

Entrance gate of Pindaya Cave

Recommended Accommodation Services in Kalaw

Kalaw Heritage Hotel

Kalaw Heritage Hotel is the ideal place to stay when visiting the city! Surrounded by gardens, this genteel hotel was built in 1903 and boasts three British Colonial-style buildings. It's only a short distance from the street food at Kalaw Myoma Market and Thein Taung Monastery, giving you plenty of options for exploration during your stay. 

Kalaw Heritage Hotel

In addition to its spectacular location, the services provided here make a visit truly unbeatable! Hosts are highly welcoming and friendly - making guests feel right at home. The dedicated staff provides both daily cleaning services and refilling of amenities, meaning you won't have to worry about keeping your room up between activities. With everything already thought of for you, make Kalaw Heritage Hotel your definite must-stay for an unforgettable experience in Kalaw!

Kalaw Heritage Hotel

Pine Hill Resort

Pine Hill Resort provides services that are sure to make your stay comfortable. Their guestrooms offer amenities such as linen services, blackout curtains, and air conditioning to guarantee a restful night. Whether you need a room with a separate living area and balcony or terrace, they have multiple layout options for you.

Pine Hill Resort

 Start your days right with a delicious in-house breakfast and the top-notch coffee served at the cafe on-site. You can satisfy your cravings anytime with the variety of convenient dining options available in the resort. Lastly, enjoy an unforgettable night with your companions complete with karaoke sessions and drinks from the bar - everything you need for your stay is just one roof away!

Pine Hill Resort

Kalaw Vista Bed and Breakfast

Located in a peaceful and quiet area of Kalaw, the Kalaw Vista Bed and Breakfast is the best place to stay during your vacation. They offer services such as air conditioning, free WiFi, car rental service, a shared lounge and a garden. This beautiful building embodies everything you could want from a holiday. It's close enough to downtown for convenience and far away from any noise you don't need on a vacation. On top of that, the staff is friendly, making it really easy for you to relax and enjoy your time there. The breakfast each morning is also amazing - something you'll be looking forward to every day! With all these services combined, you can rest assured the Kalaw Vista Bed & Breakfast will exceed all expectations with affordable prices.

Kalaw Vista Bed and Breakfast
Kalaw Vista Bed and Breakfast

Cafes in Kalaw

Kalaw is an amazing place teeming with local cafes that really embrace the environmentally friendly ethos. The local cafes use local ingredients to create delicious self-made products, helping to support local businesses and communities in the area. Not only does this reduce food miles, but it ensures fresh, local flavors are just around the corner from wherever you are! We recommend trying the following local hotspots if you’re in Kalaw – they provide a great opportunity to explore local flavors while being part of something bigger than yourself.

Kalaw Cafeyard

The cafe in Kalaw is the perfect environmentally friendly place for people to get away from their daily routines and relax. Situated with a spectacular view of the mountains, a spacious garden and a small bookshop, this cafe serves top-quality coffee with freshly cooked loaves of bread, cakes, crepes, and pastries available. It's the perfect spot to just take some time off or meet up with friends as every visit is like an escape to paradise; you can pick up a book and enjoy reading while enjoying your morning coffee. The cafe truly stands out in Kalaw because of its comforting atmosphere, specially brewed coffee and its unique connection to nature. Make sure to go to this cafe when you’re in the area!

Kalaw Cafeyard
Kalaw Cafeyard

New Simple Life Cafe

At New Simple Life Cafe & Restaurant, it strives to give the guests the deluxe experience of Italian homemade food in a serene atmosphere. Kalaw, a peaceful and serene pineland is the perfect setting for you to make those unforgettable memories with family or friends. The cafe has several tasty dishes that guarantee to leave an impression on all who visit us. From pizzas, pasta and salads to appetizers and desserts, there's something for everyone here. Come and indulge in the delightful taste of Italian food enveloped by the even calmer nature of Kalaw – it's sure to be a unique experience!

New Simple Life Cafe

Cafe Kalaw

If you're looking for the perfect cafe to snap some cozy photos for your Instagram feed, look no further than the famous cafe that has become renowned for its stunning photography. Not only does this cafe provide all of the traditional coffee favorites such as Americano, cappuccino and latte, all of which are made with local coffee beans, but you can also treat yourself to some tasty wafers or toast! This cafe offers the perfect combination of beautiful photography and delicious snacks - what more could you need?

Cafe Kalaw
Cafe Kalaw

Maluka Villa Restaurant & Bar

At this cafe, the design concept itself is worth a visit. A greenhouse style, with a large yard outside giving plenty of room to relax and eat, makes this cafe one of a kind. But what really brings customers in droves is the selection of coffees produced by Maluka Villa – Brazil Blend Kalaw Coffee, Asia Blend Kalaw Coffee, and Local Blend Kalaw Coffee. And when it comes to souvenirs and gifts, you can buy self-produced natural soap and beauty oil right at the cafe! With this combination in mind, it's no surprise why people keep returning to this cafe time after time – so make sure to experience it for yourself!

Maluka Villa
Maluka Villa

All in all, Kalaw truly has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion or simply some time away from it all. With so many wonderful places to visit here, it's no wonder why so many people choose this town as their holiday destination in winter every year! So if you're looking for a unique getaway with plenty of activities to keep you occupied, then why not consider visiting Kalaw? You won't regret it!

Posted 
December 20, 2022