Kalaw

Kalaw is a hill station located in Taunggyi District in the Shan state of Myanmar. Its elevation at 1310 meters attracts thousands of travelers, both local and international. As it is 50 km from the popular Inle Lake, there are trekking activities available to Kalaw from Inle and back, which is very popular. 

The hill town was established during the British rule as their summer retreat, and hence, has the remains of the colonial architecture. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, rich forests and flora, it inspired many British authors including Jan-Philipp Sendker, who chose Kalaw as his central location for his novel The Art of Hearing Heartbeats. Today, it is popular among backpackers for hiking and its natural beauty. 

The weather is very refreshing in Kalaw for being a hill station almost throughout the year, unlike the rest of the country which has the effects of a humid tropical climate. There are several multiple-day trips possible along many trails, which can be chosen based on your interests. The surrounding villages are home to ethnic minorities like Palaung, Danu and Taung Yo.