Things To Do
in Leiktho

Leiktho is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Myanmar, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by lush hills and serene lakes, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The town is characterized by its warm hospitality, where traditional customs are still very much alive.

Leiktho's vibrant markets and colorful festivals make it an enchanting destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the nearby Lake Leiktho, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride while taking in the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the Leiktho Cultural Museum to learn about the region's history and traditions.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a stroll through the night market, sampling local street food and shopping for handmade crafts.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby hills, where you can experience breathtaking views and the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby village to engage with the local community and observe traditional crafts being made.

evening
:

Enjoy a serene dinner at a riverside restaurant, watching the sunset over the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Mohinga$1
🍺Local Beer$2
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🚖Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🛏️Night at a Guesthouse$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and serene environment.
  • Rich cultural experiences and warm local hospitality.
  • Affordable costs of living.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Language barriers with locals may pose challenges.
  • Public transportation is not well developed.
  • "Mingalaba" - Hello
  • "Kyeizu tin ba de" - Thank you
  • "Kyaik hma" - Where is...?
  • "Neh ma?" - How much?
  • "Thangya" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Leiktho

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Leiktho

A tranquil lake surrounded by hills, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.

Local Temples

Several beautifully adorned temples provide stunning backdrops for photography.

Village Life

Capturing daily life in the nearby villages showcases rich cultural traditions and vibrant colors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leiktho

Leiktho boasts a rich culinary scene that showcases the flavors of Myanmar, offering travelers a chance to taste authentic local dishes.

Leiktho Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A traditional fish soup with rice noodles, often served as breakfast.

Must-Try!

Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet)

A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves, peanuts, and sesame seeds.

Shan Noodles

Rice noodles served with a variety of toppings, often including chicken or pork.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leiktho Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street foods and local snacks.

Local Produce Market

A daytime market featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Leiktho experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasons. The dry season from November to February is characterized by cooler temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The hot season from March to May can be quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F). The rainy season from June to October brings heavy monsoons, significantly impacting daily activities but also nourishing the lush landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Dress modestly and avoid direct contact when interacting with monks.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering homes and religious sites.

Polite Greetings

A slight bow or a traditional 'Mingalaba' greeting is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leiktho is generally safe for travelers; however, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services are limited, so having a local contact or guide is beneficial. It's also important to respect local customs and laws to ensure a trouble-free visit.

Tipping in Leiktho

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and by guides; around 10% is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but some places may accept credit cards; it's best to have local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to February)

Expect pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Hot Season (March to May)

Temperatures can rise significantly, so stay hydrated and plan activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Heavy rains can occur; it’s essential to have waterproof gear and be flexible with outdoor plans.

Festive Season (October)

Cultural festivals take place, providing unique opportunities for photography and local interaction.

Nightlife Guide

Leiktho at Night

Leiktho offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafes where locals gather to socialize. The night market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with food stalls and lively chatter. While the options are limited compared to larger cities, the laid-back ambiance makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Leiktho

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek

A popular multi-day trek through scenic hills and traditional villages, ending at the stunning Inle Lake.

Hiking to Mount Popa

A challenging hike offering breathtaking views from the summit, known for its spiritual significance.

Airports

How to reach Leiktho by plane.

Heho Airport

Approximately 60 kilometers from Leiktho, Heho Airport is the nearest airport, offering domestic flights to major cities in Myanmar.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leiktho is quite walkable due to its compact size, with many attractions, markets, and eateries located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available in most areas, but be mindful of uneven surfaces in less developed parts of town. Walking provides a great opportunity to engage with locals and experience daily life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar

The predominant ethnic group in Myanmar, known for their rich cultural traditions and festivals.

Shan

Another significant ethnic group, known for their distinct language, culture, and traditional crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Leiktho, with local teams often competing in regional matches.

Traditional Myanmar Wrestling (Lethwei)

This traditional sport is popular among locals and is often showcased during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Leiktho is generally light, with most locals using motorbikes and bicycles for transportation. Public transportation options are limited, so walking or hiring a bike or taxi is common. Roads are mostly paved, but some rural areas may have dirt roads that can be challenging during the rainy season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leiktho.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be modified for vegetarian diets, but it's best to specify your needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; rice and certain noodle dishes are usually safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Leiktho are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious health issues, travelers may need to travel to larger cities like Yangon or Mandalay, where better hospitals are located. It's recommended to have travel insurance and carry a basic medical kit.

Discover Myanmar

Read more in our Myanmar 2025 Travel Guide.

Myanmar Travel Guide