The City of Flowers
About an hour east of Mandalay, the road suddenly climbs, ascending the Shan Plateau. Dusty plains make way for green hills, palm trees are replaced by large oaks and the heat drops to a pleasant, comfortable temperature.
When Burma travellers arrive in Pyin Oo Lwin, they often wonder whether they are indeed still in Burma.
There are Victorian horse carriages riding through town, it gets chilly at night and where are the ubiquitous pagodas?!
Far from a typical town, but nevertheless very Burmese, Pyin Oo Lwin will show you all kinds of fascinating sights, both in town and around.
Flowers and sweaters are the most sold items at the markets, but you should also find some tasty food on offer -if the junior shop assistant isn't too busy that is.
Enjoy the multicultural vibe at the local eateries and tea houses. Two of our personal favourites are Krishna (South Indian curry) and Barista Khine coffee shop!
Pyin Oo Lwin's most famous feature is without a doubt the National Kandawgyi Garden.
In old British hill stations you would typically find a few red coloured remainders of colonial times.
There are some great day trip opportunities, such as taking the local train across the Gokteik Viaduct, or hiking down to the Dat Taw Gyaint waterfalls.
