Hsipaw - Discovering Myanmar

Travelling to Hsipaw

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hsipaw, a pretty good destination in Myanmar (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hsipaw and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hsipaw, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Myanmar, here's everything to know about Hsipaw for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hsipaw

Hsipaw is a small town located in the Shan State region of Myanmar. It is known for its beautiful scenery and for being a starting point for trekking in the surrounding hills and villages. The town itself has a traditional feel to it, with a bustling market, several temples and pagodas, and a palace that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors to Hsipaw can also take a scenic train ride over the Gokteik Viaduct, which is the highest railway bridge in Myanmar and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Overall, Hsipaw is a peaceful and authentic destination that attracts travelers looking to experience Myanmar's rural charm.

What to visit in Hsipaw

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Hsipaw, Myanmar: 1. Shan Palace - It is a 19th-century palace built by the last prince of Shan state. The palace has a distinct architecture and is surrounded by a beautiful garden with a fish pond.
2. The Bawgyo Paya Pagoda - This ancient pagoda is located on a hill overlooking Hsipaw town. It has a unique architecture and offers a great view of the surrounding countryside.
3. Pankham Village - This small village is known for its traditional weaving techniques. You can witness the weaving process and even purchase some beautiful handmade items.
4. Nam Tok Waterfall - A popular attraction for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Hsipaw. The waterfall is easily accessible and is a great spot for swimming or picnicking.
5. Trekking and Hiking - Hsipaw and its surrounding areas have several trekking and hiking routes. The most popular ones include the 2-day trek to Palaung villages and the 3-day trek to Kyaukme and its nearby villages.
6. Kyaukme - A nearby town that is famous for its tea plantations. Visitors can take a day trip to Kyaukme and explore the tea fields, visit a tea factory, and try some freshly brewed tea.
7. Twilight Villa - A charming guesthouse located in a peaceful location outside of the town center. It offers great views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies.
These are some of the popular tourist attractions in Hsipaw, Myanmar. Each of them offers a unique experience and can add a lot of value to a traveler's itinerary.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Myanmar, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hsipaw.

When to go on holiday to Hsipaw

The best time to visit Hsipaw is from November to February when the weather is dry, sunny, and warm during the day, and cool at night. From March to May the temperature rises significantly and can become uncomfortably hot. Finally, from June to October, it is monsoon season, and the area experiences frequent heavy rain showers. So, it is better to avoid visiting Hsipaw during this period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hsipaw

To get to Hsipaw in Myanmar, you can take a bus or a train from Mandalay, which is a major transportation hub in the country. The journey takes around 5-6 hours by bus and 7-8 hours by train. There are several bus companies that operate between Mandalay and Hsipaw, including JJ Express, Mandalar Minn Express, and Elite Express. You can book your bus ticket online or at the bus station in Mandalay.
If you prefer to take a train, you can book a seat on the Mandalay-Myitkyina train and get off at Hsipaw station. The train journey is longer than the bus, but it offers scenic views of the countryside.
Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or taxi from Mandalay to Hsipaw, which will take around 4 hours depending on traffic conditions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hsipaw, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hsipaw

Here are some typical foods of Hsipaw, Myanmar along with a brief description: 1. Shan Noodle Soup: a popular noodle dish made with a flavorful broth, sliced meat, and a variety of herbs and spices.
2. Tea Leaf Salad: a traditional Burmese dish made with fermented tea leaves, chopped tomatoes, peanuts, garlic, and other savory ingredients.
3. Shan Rice: a dish made with boiled rice and served with a variety of toppings, such as chicken or pork curry, vegetables, and fried onions.
4. Mohinga: a popular fish soup made with rice noodles, fish broth, lemongrass, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices.
5. Shan-style Tofu Noodles: a vegetarian dish made with rice noodles, fried soybean cakes (tofu), peanuts, and a variety of spices.
6. Shan-style Hot Pot: a communal dish where diners cook raw meat and vegetables in a flavorful broth at the table.
7. Kyauk Sway: a sweet coconut-based dessert made with sticky rice flour and topped with shredded coconut and palm sugar.
8. Mont Lone Yay Paw: a popular fried pastry made with ground split peas and wrapped in crispy layers of dough.
9. Shan-style Noodle Salad: a refreshing salad made with rice noodles, shredded vegetables, and a tangy dressing made with lime juice and fish sauce.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique cuisine you can enjoy while visiting Hsipaw, Myanmar.
You can find general info about typical foods in Myanmar here.

Is Hsipaw an expensive destination for tourists?

Hsipaw, located in Shan State of Myanmar, is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination for tourists. You can find affordable accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels, which offer basic amenities at reasonable prices. The food options are also plentiful, ranging from local street food to international cuisine, and relatively inexpensive.
However, the cost of some activities can be higher, such as trekking tours and visits to cultural sites like the Shan Palace Museum. Also, transportation costs, especially if you hire a private car, can add up. Nonetheless, if you plan your trip well and stick to a budget, Hsipaw should not be too expensive for most travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Hsipaw

Hsipaw is a small town located in northern Myanmar, and most of the attractions in the area can be easily reached on foot. That being said, the town has a few distinct areas where you could consider finding accommodation based on your preferences. 1. Around the Main Market: This is the center of town and has a lot of guesthouses, hotels, and restaurants to choose from. This area is great for those who like to be in the midst of all the action, as it's bustling with locals and tourists alike.
2. Near the Train Station: As Hsipaw is known for its scenic train journey over the Goteik Viaduct, some visitors prefer to stay near the train station to have easy access to it. There are a few guesthouses and hotels in the vicinity, but it may not be as lively as the main market area.
3. By the Riverside: A few guesthouses and resorts are located along the beautiful Dohtawaddy River, which runs through Hsipaw. This area is more peaceful and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies.
Overall, Hsipaw is a small town, and no matter where you decide to stay, you'll be within walking distance of most attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Hsipaw here:
Booking.com

Is Hsipaw a safe destination for tourists?

Hsipaw is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Myanmar. However, as with any destination, it's important to take appropriate safety precautions. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure. It's also advisable to stay up to date with local news and to follow the advice of the local authorities. Overall, Hsipaw is a charming town with a friendly community, and tourists are welcomed with open arms.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Myanmar here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hsipaw.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hsipaw the most?

Hsipaw is a great destination for travelers who are interested in cultural immersion and natural beauty. This destination is suitable for adventurous travelers who want to explore the offbeat paths and appreciate the local lifestyle. It is perfect for young couples who love to travel and experience new cultures together. Hsipaw can also be enjoyed by families and solo travelers who are looking for a laid-back atmosphere and serene scenery.
There are plenty of activities to take part in Hsipaw such as hiking, trekking, and visiting the Shan Palace and market. The area is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls such as the Nam Tok waterfall and this makes it an ideal spot if you're looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Overall, Hsipaw is a great destination for all travelers who enjoy nature and culture.

How to get around Hsipaw

Hsipaw is a small town located in northern Shan State, Myanmar. The most common transportation options available to move around Hsipaw are: 1. Walk: Hsipaw is a small town, and most of the attractions are situated close to each other, so walking is the best option within the town.
2. Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is a good option to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby villages comfortably.
3. Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is another convenient way to explore the surrounding area. However, it is recommended to have driving experience as the roads can be bumpy and uneven.
4. Taxis: Taxis are also available in the town, but it is recommended to negotiate the price before getting into the taxi.
5. Horse-carts: Horse-carts are a unique means of transportation in Hsipaw that gives a glimpse of old Burmese transportation style. However, this option is available for a limited area and cannot be used for long-distance travels.

What to see around Hsipaw

There are a lot of beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Hsipaw. Here are my top recommendations: 1. Namtok Waterfall: Located about 14 km from Hsipaw, Namtok Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall that offers beautiful views and a chance to take a refreshing swim.
2. Shan Palace: Shan Palace is an ancient palace complex located in Hsipaw town. It is a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the royal history of Shan state.
3. The Gokteik Viaduct: This is an old railroad bridge that was built in 1901. It is considered to be one of Myanmar's most iconic landmarks and is located about 35 km from Hsipaw.
4. Kyaukme: Kyaukme is a town located about 25 km from Hsipaw, famous for its beautiful scenery, varied wildlife and ethnic minority culture.
5. Palaung Villages: The Palaung Villages are located about 15 km from Hsipaw, and offer visitors the chance to learn about the unique culture and customs of the local people.
6. Lashio: Located about 78 km from Hsipaw, this city is famous for its markets, temples, and pagodas.
7. Shan State Forest Department: This is a nature reserve near Hsipaw town offering visitors a chance to see Myanmar's exotic flora and fauna.
For every travel information about Myanmar you can click here.

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