Hpa-an Travel Guide

Image Gallery ▼

• Introduction to Hpa-an
• List of Places to Visit in Hpa-an
  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
  • Natural Attractions of Hpa-an: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
• Hiking/Biking Routes of Hpa-an
• Best Things to Do in Hpa-an: Activities and Tours
• Week-Long Itinerary for Hpa-an
• Food and Drink Scene of Hpa-an
  • Must-Try Dishes
  • Local Beverages
• Where to Stay in Hpa-an: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
• What to Buy in Hpa-an: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
• Local Culture and Customs of Hpa-an
• Best Time to Visit Hpa-an
• Do’s and Don’ts of Hpa-an
  • Do:
  • Don’t:
• Safety and Health
  • Safety in Hpa-an
  • Health in Hpa-an
• Getting to Hpa-an: Transportation Options and Logistics
  • Airports Near Hpa-an
  • Bus Stations Near Hpa-an
  • Other Options
• How to Get Around in Hpa-an
• Where to Go Next from Hpa-an: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
• Conclusion

Introduction to Hpa-an

Hpa-an is a hidden gem in Southeastern Myanmar that offers breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and delectable local cuisine. Its location in the foothills of the Karen Mountains makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, while the town’s relaxed atmosphere also makes it a perfect escape for those looking for a more peaceful vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Hpa-an

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

• Kan Thar Yar Lake
• Kyauk Kalap Pagoda
• Kaw Gun Cave
• Saddan Cave
• Bayin Nyi Cave

Natural Attractions of Hpa-an: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

• Mount Zwegabin
• Lumbini Garden
• Hpa-an Viewpoint
• Yathaypyan Cave

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hpa-an

• Mount Zwegabin Hike
• Hpa-an Bike Tour

Best Things to Do in Hpa-an: Activities and Tours

• Kayaking on Thanlwin River
• Jungle Trekking
• Boat tour to Mawlamyine

Week-Long Itinerary for Hpa-an

Day	Activity
1	Arrival Day, Visit to Kan Thar Yar Lake
2	Visit to Kyauk Kalap Pagoda
3	Hike to Mount Zwegabin
4	Visit to Kaw Gun Cave and Saddan Cave
5	Kayaking on Thanlwin River
6	Boat Tour to Mawlamyine
7	Departure Day

Food and Drink Scene of Hpa-an

Must-Try Dishes

• Monhinga (rice noodles in fish soup)
• Shan-style Rice Noodles
• Htamin Gyaw (crispy fried rice)
• Ngapi (fish paste) with Vegetables

Local Beverages

• Myanmar Beer
• Palm Wine
• Green Tea

Where to Stay in Hpa-an: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

• Keinnara Hpa-An Hotel
• Galaxy Motel Hpa An
• Soe Brothers Guesthouse Hpa An

What to Buy in Hpa-an: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

• Karen Handicraft Items
• Longyis (traditional Myanmar dress)
• Shan Bags and Baskets
• Cheroots (traditional Myanmar cigars)

Local Culture and Customs of Hpa-an

Karen culture is deeply ingrained in Hpa-an and visitors should be respectful of local customs. Women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees and outdoors shoes should be removed before entering sacred sites. In addition, the Karen people have their own language and it is interesting to learn a few local words to use with the Karen people.

Best Time to Visit Hpa-an

The best time to visit Hpa-an is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier. During this time, outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking are more enjoyable, and the lush scenery is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hpa-an

Do:

• Respect local customs and cultures
• Try the local cuisine
• Take care of the environment and natural surroundings

Don’t:

• Wear revealing clothing
• Disrespect sacred sites and customs
• Litter

Safety and Health

Safety in Hpa-an

Hpa-an is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, but with common sense and care, such incidents can be avoided.

Health in Hpa-an

Visitors to Hpa-an should make sure their vaccinations are up to date and take basic precautions such as drinking only bottled water. In addition, travelers should be cautious when eating street food and make sure it is fresh and cooked properly.

Getting to Hpa-an: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hpa-an

The closest airport to Hpa-an is the Mawlamyine Airport, which is approximately 70km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Hpa-an.

Bus Stations Near Hpa-an

Hpa-an has a bus station that connects it to other cities in Myanmar. Popular destinations include Yangon and Mawlamyine.

Other Options

Travelers can also hire a private car or taxi to reach Hpa-an from neighboring cities.

How to Get Around in Hpa-an

The best way to get around Hpa-an is by motorbike or bicycle, which can be rented from local shops. Visitors can also take taxis or tuk-tuks for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Hpa-an: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

• Mawlamyine
• Yangon
• Dawei
• Golden Rock

Conclusion

Hpa-an is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everybody. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Southeast Asia. So why not book your trip today and discover the magic of Hpa-an for yourself?

Hpa-an Image Gallery

Hpa-an with mountains in the back View from Mount Zwegabin at dawn Kyauk Kalap Pagoda Hpa-An bat cave at sunset Route of ''Extensive day trip by scooter'' On the road between Lumbini Garden and Saddan Cave Bungalow at Keinnara Hpa-An