Kalaw

Kalaw is a hill station town in the Shan State of Myanmar. It is located about 4,150 feet above sea level in the hills of the Shan Plateau. The town is known for its cool climate and scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a respite from the heat of the plains. Kalaw is also a significant trading post and a gateway to the Inle Lake region.

The population of Kalaw is diverse, with significant communities of Bamar, Shan, and Nepali people, as well as Indian and Gurkha communities. This ethnic mix is reflected in the town's culture and architecture. Many of Kalaw's buildings have a colonial-era style, a legacy of its past as a British administrative outpost.

Kalaw is a starting point for trekking expeditions into the surrounding countryside. These treks often include visits to ethnic minority villages, tea plantations, and pagodas. The journey to Inle Lake from Kalaw is a popular trekking route, offering opportunities to experience rural Myanmar life. The town itself features a vibrant market where locals trade goods, and several notable religious sites, including the Shwe Oo Min Paya, a cave filled with Buddha images. The nearest airport is Heho Airport, which serves Kalaw and the Inle Lake area.