Nature Active – Myanmar Burma Trip Information and Travel Assistance

The Perfect Trekking destination

For the adventurous traveler, we would like to suggest some trekking spots in the country. Though, there are many but prime spots are Mount Popa (Kyaukpadaung Township- Mandalay Division), Kyaukhtiyo (Kyaik Hto Township, Mon State) and Tayaw Mountain Range (Kalaw Township, Southern Shan State).

The trekking in Tayaw village is famous for the adventures and sight-seeing it offers. The place also gives an insight into the lifestyle of the Burmese people because many villages too lie in the way. The Palaung people are very welcoming and warm.

To reach the Tayaw Village, you board a flight from Yongon to Heho. Then, proceed about 70 Km west of Taunggyi, which takes you to Kalaw. Once at Kalaw, you are ready for trekking. Kalaw, too, is a famous hiking destination. It sits elevated on the Shan plateau and has good weather. During the British rule this was popular destination. The nearby villages can also be visited during your hiking and trekking trip.

The actual trekking site is about 11Km to the south-west of Kalaw in Tayaw Village. In the village, there are about 12 hilly ranges you can trek to. The trip can last 4-6 hours by foot and is adventurous. More information can be had from the Information Center located in Kalaw.

The Palaung traditions encountered during the trip are an experience in itself. Let me share some of them. The women in Palaung have beautiful attire. They wear skirts with caned hoops and beautiful colorful tops. The houses in Palaung tend to be horizontally long with a lot of members living in it. There are mostly joint families in Palaung culture. A surprising fact you may not like: They tend to bath only once a month.

The main religion in Palaung is Buddhism. Most of the villages are quite small and have a monastery. The main income source is farming and terrace cultivation. The main food crop they grow is Tha Nat Phet (Cordial Maze) and it has large leafs to wrap Myanmar cheroot (homes). People use these leaves to make Cheroots in Myanmar. Education is still one sector that this region lacks and there is just one primary school in the area. If possible, contribute to the village health fund as it may help some children get education.

Finally, Palaung is a fine trekking destination and alongside it is also a great display of the Myanmar culture. The scenic place is a delight for the adventurers.