Picturesque hill station surrounded by pine forests, Kalaw is famous for its refreshing climate and scenic views. It is also known as a good point for trekking and hiking because of the neighbouring hill tribe villages which are still the same as centuries ago. It is a worth place to visit for those who love nature beauty and peaceful sites.

Visitors should not miss the heart of Kalaw, local market where nearby villagers come and sell their local products. Most of the town’s restaurants are in this area, and much of the food on offer has a distinct sub-continental flavour; many of the restaurant owners and staff are descendants of Indian and Nepali railway workers and soldiers who settled here during colonial days.

If you would like to enjoy overnight trekking for two to three days on Shan Mountains, you can start the journey from Kalaw to Inle Lake. For the train lovers, taking a morning train from Shwe Nyaung, a small train-station-town near Inle Lake and getting off at the old colonial station in Kalaw would be a nostalgic experience. Overnight treks will allow you to get to higher elevations and more remote areas. However do not expect luxury: you will be sleeping on the floor of a local monastery or family house, a fun experience for the adventurous traveler.

Located an hour east of Kalaw is the Green Hill Valley Elephant project. The focus is primarily on providing care for elephants that are no longer fit to work. This ‘retirement’ home for logging elephants is a fascinating place to learn about the gentle giants, their role in Myanmar society and conservation issues within the country.