Kalaw
A former colonial hill station and home to a variety of minority cultures, Kalaw is a delightful addition to any itinerary visiting the Inle Lake region of Shan State.

“The cool hills of Shan State are where the British retreated to in the height of summer, and Kalaw retains a strong draw today. Colonial history, minority cultures, great scenery and elephants - what more could you want?”
Tyler Palma, Group Tours Ground Manager & Senior Tour Leader
Located at 1,320 metres above sea level in the hills to the west of Inle Lake, Kalaw's cool climate and lush surroundings made it a popular destination for the British during the colonial era. Thanks to this, Kalaw bears many of the hallmarks of the hill stations elsewhere in Asia - such as picturesque period architecture, often in a mock-Tudor style.
Kalaw is an excellent base for visitors who wish to trek in the beautiful, hilly scenery of surrounding Shan State, visiting the villages of the local minority groups and escaping the muggy heat of the lowlands. From here, it is possible to make a two-day trek to Inle Lake - a popular choice with more adventurous travellers.
Finally, many visitors who make it to Kalaw will want to set aside some time to visit the Green Hill Elephant Camp, a home for retired logging elephants. This sanctuary leads Myanmar in terms of ethical treatment of its animals and its efforts to conserve the surrounding area. Guests can interact with the elephants, learn about being a mahout (elephant handler), take treks into the forest, and help with conservation efforts by planting trees.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
Recommended Accommodation in Kalaw
The following are our favourites from among the western-style hotels and Burmese-style inns of Kalaw.
Experiences in Kalaw
Kalaw offers a wealth of exciting experiences that will help you get beneath the surface of Myanmar's fascinating culture. See below for a few of our favourites
Weather in Kalaw
The Climate Guide for Kalaw is perfect for planning your holiday. Monthly weather averages give the best indication of what the weather is usually like for every month of the year including figures for temperature, rainfall and sunshine.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Max Daytime Temperature (°C) | 23 | 25 | 28 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 22 |
Min Night-time Temperature (°C) | 8 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 13 | 9 |
Hours of Sunshine (Daily) | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
Hours of Daylight (Daily) | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 |
Heat and Humidity Discomfort | None | None | Low | Moderate | Low | Low | None | None | Low | Low | None | None |
Days with some Rainfall | 2 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 23 | 19 | 12 | 6 | 2 |
Monthly Rainfall (mm) | 5 | 5 | 7 | 49 | 167 | 227 | 241 | 281 | 259 | 187 | 66 | 12 |
UV Index (Maximum) | 8 | 10 | 11+ | 11+ | 11+ | 11+ | 11+ | 11+ | 11+ | 10 | 8 | 7 |
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
Tour Gallery
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
Featured trips including Kalaw
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Small Group Tour
Hands On Myanmar (IAT Classic)
- Mandalay
- Bagan
- Kalaw
- Inle Lake
- Loikaw
- Yangon
From pottery to temple vistas, cooking classes to bathing elephants, this is a culturally immersive hands on tour that will show you the true heart of Myanmar (Burma) and its people.
14 nights: US$4283 Read more >
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Small Group Tour
Magnificent Myanmar (IAT Classic)
- Yangon
- Pyin Oo Lwin
- Mandalay
- Bagan
- Kalaw
- Inle Lake
A comprehensive tour on the beauty, culture and history of Myanmar (Burma). With friendly people, scenic vistas and a traditional way of life, this tour of Myanmar is not to be missed!
13 nights: US$3763 Read more >
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Fully Tailored Journey
Hidden Trails of Myanmar (Classic)
- Pyin Oo Lwin
- Kalaw
- Pindaya
- Inle Lake
- Loikaw
- Yangon
Get away from the crowds as you hike, bike and kayak amid the stunning scenery of Shan and Kayah States.
13 nights: from US$3120 pp (twin share) Read more >