Things To Do
in Kawa

Kawa is a picturesque town in Myanmar, nestled in the heart of the country, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush hills and dotted with traditional bamboo houses, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. Kawa serves as a gateway to explore nearby attractions, including ancient pagodas and vibrant markets.

With its friendly locals and serene atmosphere, Kawa is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience in Burma.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kawa Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and shop for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Explore the ancient Kawa Pagoda, a stunning architectural marvel that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Burmese dishes, and take a leisurely stroll through the town to experience its tranquil night ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike through the nearby hills, where you can witness the breathtaking scenery and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local village to interact with residents and learn about their daily lives and traditions.

evening
:

Relax over a cup of traditional tea at a local café, enjoying the sunset as you reflect on your experiences in Kawa.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
Cup of local tea$0.50
🚕Taxi ride within town$2-4
🏨Night at budget hotel$10-15
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Stunning natural scenery with numerous outdoor activities.
  • Affordable travel costs compared to other destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options for those seeking vibrant entertainment.
  • Public transportation may be less reliable than in larger cities.
  • Language barriers may exist, as English is not widely spoken.
  • "Mingalarbar" - Hello
  • "Che zu tin ba de" - Thank you
  • "Baw ga de" - How much is this?
  • "Neh kaung la?" - Are you well?
  • "Thwa ba de" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Kawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Kawa Pagoda

An iconic landmark that provides stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, especially at sunset.

Kawa Market

A bustling market filled with vibrant colors and lively scenes, perfect for capturing the essence of local life.

Scenic Hills

The hills surrounding Kawa offer breathtaking panoramic views, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kawa

Kawa offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the rich flavors of Burmese cuisine. Must-try local dishes include Mohinga, Laphet Thoke, and Tea Leaf Salad.

Kawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A popular breakfast dish made of rice noodles in a fish broth, flavored with lemongrass and served with various toppings.

Must-Try!

Laphet Thoke

A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves, mixed with nuts, peas, and other ingredients, offering a flavorful and tangy taste.

Burmese Curry

A rich and aromatic curry made with chicken or pork, served with rice and various side dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kawa Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors offering delicious treats.

Street Food Stalls

Scattered throughout the town, these stalls serve local favorites like grilled skewers and fried snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kawa experiences a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: a dry summer from March to May, a rainy monsoon season from June to October, and a cooler winter from November to February. Daytime temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F) in summer, while winter nights can drop to around 10°C (50°F). Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can affect travel plans but also transforms the landscape into a lush paradise.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Always show respect towards monks; women should avoid physical contact and should not hand items directly to them.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local homes, wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kawa is generally safe for tourists, though standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. It is advisable to stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Kawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is the primary payment method; ATMs are available, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer (March to May)

Hot temperatures, best to plan outdoor activities in the mornings or late afternoons.

Monsoon (June to October)

Frequent rain, which may hinder outdoor plans; however, the lush greenery is beautiful during this time.

Transitional Seasons (February and October)

Milder temperatures, making it a pleasant time to visit with fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Kawa at Night

Kawa has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around local tea houses and restaurants. While there are no nightclubs, visitors can enjoy live music performances, traditional cultural shows, or simply unwind with friends over tea and local delicacies. The evenings are typically peaceful, making it a great time to experience the local culture in a laid-back setting.

Hiking in Kawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kawa Hill Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the town and surrounding landscape, suitable for all skill levels.

Dawna Range Trek

A more challenging hike that takes you through beautiful forests and unique wildlife, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Kawa by plane.

Mandalay International Airport

Located approximately 100 kilometers from Kawa, this airport serves as the main gateway for international flights into the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kawa is a compact town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within a short distance from each other, allowing visitors to explore on foot. The streets are generally safe, though some areas may have uneven sidewalks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar

The largest ethnic group in Myanmar, comprising the majority of Kawa's population, known for their rich cultural traditions.

Shan

An ethnic minority group in the region, known for their distinct customs and contributions to the cultural diversity of Kawa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball, popular among local youth.

Football

Football is widely played and followed in Kawa, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kawa is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for transportation. There are few cars on the roads, making it safe to navigate on foot. Public transportation options include shared taxis and occasional buses, but schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free Awareness

While gluten-free options may be limited, rice dishes are widely available; inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kawa are basic, with a few clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Mandalay, which have better-equipped hospitals. Travelers are recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Burma

Read more in our Burma 2025 Travel Guide.

Burma Travel Guide