HPA AN TRAVEL GUIDE

Hpa an is the capital town of Kayin state (1.6mil inhabitants) in South Eastern Myanmar. The Kayins are Christian and Buddhist. Hpa An is a peaceful small town situated on the banks of the Thanlyin River and surrounded by picturesque rural landscapes and a karst mountain region.

Although Hpa An town itself does not have many attractions but it is an ideal base for excursions to the surrounding limestone karst mountain region.

Visitors can take a scenic boat rides along the river, explore the regions spectacular limestone caves, hike up one of the many mountains, hire a bike or walk and explore the scenic countryside or wonder around town discovering small markets and religious sites.

HIGHLIGHTS AROUND HPA AN

Mount Zwegabin: Hike to the summit of Hpa-An’s most iconic landmark. The challenging two-hour climb rewards you with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Kayin State plains and a serene monastery at the peak.
Saddan Cave: Walk through this colossal limestone cavern filled with crystal-covered stalactites and golden Buddhas. The journey ends at a “secret” lake where local wooden boats wait to row you through a flooded grotto back to the starting fields.
Kyauk Kalat Pagoda: Marvel at this gravity-defying stupa perched atop a sheer limestone pinnacle in the center of a peaceful lake. It is one of the most photographed and spiritually unique sites in Myanmar.
Lumbini Garden: Located at the foot of Mount Zwegabin, this striking field contains over 1,100 identical seated Buddha statues lined up in perfect rows against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Kawgun Cave: Step back in time at this 7th-century “Cave of the Ten Thousand Buddhas,” where the limestone walls are almost entirely covered in thousands of intricate clay carvings and ancient votive tablets.
Bat Cave (Linno Gu): Gather at the riverside at dusk to witness a spectacular natural phenomenon as hundreds of thousands of bats emerge from the cave in a continuous, swirling ribbon that stretches across the sunset sky for nearly 30 minutes.
Yathaypyan Cave: Known for its beautiful reflections and elevated viewpoints, this cave features a wooden walkway that leads through the mountain to a stunning lookout over the surrounding rice fields.
Kan Thar Yar Lake: Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll across the wooden footbridge of this town-center lake, perfect for capturing the reflection of the karst mountains during the “golden hour.”