The countryside of Shan State offers stunning scenery and vistas. The picturesque scenes of farmers hard at work are different every season as the colours of the fields chance with the clime. Visit Pindaya and the small colonial town of Kalaw and savour the authentic experience of taking the slow train from Kalaw to Shwe Nyaung, capturing the scenery along the way.

The two-day tour includes a visit to Pindaya, Kalaw and the train to Nyaung Shwe. Starting from the Heho airport, head to Pindaya (approximately 45 minutes) on an attractive drive up into the hills and across the Shan Plateau through fields of mountain rice. Visit the magnificent Pindaya Caves set in a limestone ridge overlooking a picturesque lake, where thousands of different Buddha images are on display in the various cave chambers. Afterward, continue to local workshop where Shan paper and parasols are made. Visit the Plan Bee Beekeeping Centre (open 09:00 – 17:00 hrs, Monday-Saturday) and discover the amazing world of beekeeping and the story of Shan honey. Sample the taste of Myanmar honey while participating in fun workshops and activities for adults and children.

Then from Pindaya, drive to Kalaw for an overnight stay. The former British hill station of Kalaw is a charming town featuring British-style bungalows set in leafy surroundings. On the second day, enjoy strolling through Kalaw, visiting the local market, tiny railway station and perhaps a walk up the hill to see the old Catholic church (if open). Transfer to Kalaw Station for a 13:00 hrs departure on the slow train from Kalaw to Shwe Nyaung, a wonderfully scenic trip across the forested slopes of the Shan Hills and pretty patchwork fields. The train is picturesque and simple – your open-window carriage is outfitted with wooden-slatted benches shared with villagers laden with fruits and vegetables to sell. At country stops, vendors of snacks and drinks ply their goods through the open windows. (Please note that the train can frequently be delayed, so consider this a local adventure. In case of any cancellation, you may travel by car instead.) Arrival at Shwe Nyaung Station, transfer by car to Nyaung Shwe on the edge of Inle Lake.

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