Hpa An

Hpa-an has been described as scruffy -- perhaps ramshackle would be more polite -- but compared to neighbouring state capitals it does lack say the wide streets and stately architecture of Mawlamyine and is almost the antithesis of tidy, orderly Dawei. What passes for downtown Hpa-an still displays far more wood and corrugated iron than concrete, but the narrow, winding and cluttered lanes do give it charm in spades.

The small town itself doesn’t possess too many sights to see -- once you’ve done a sunset at Shweyinhmyaw Pagoda, walked around Kan Thar Yar Lake and checked out the morning market you’ve about done it -- but it is a very pleasant town to hang out in. With a delightful riverside location on the banks of the Salween, a laidback charm and some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes within easy striking distance, Hpa-an looks set to become a popular first stop for overland visitors on their way to the more traditional tourist destinations further north. Using Hpa-an as a base you can head further afield to see Saddar, Kaw Kathaung, Kawgun and Bayin Nyi Caves plus Zwegabin, Kyauk Kalat Pagoda (it's delightfully pronounced "chocolate") and Lumbini Gardens.