Unlike other parts of Southeast Asia, Myanmar that has only recently relaxed laws on international tourism, offers travelers with all off the beaten track destinations. It still requires difficult-to-acquire military permits and clearances too venture too far away from major cities and towns. However, Hsipaw, in the northeast of the well known city of Mandalay is a readily accessible jewel in the remote region close to the China’s border. Visit Hsipaw with: Indochina tours Myanmar
Surrounded by mountainous landscapes, Hsipaw – a small town in the Shan state of Eastern Myanmar, whose farm has become the gateway for those wanting to visit ethnic minority groups and see how life outside of the cities still operates to discover the hills, has been gaining recognition as a must-see destination for intrepid travellers.
Hsipaw – must-see destination for intrepid travellers- source: internet
Active backpackers will find themselves cycling through the agricultural fields just outside of town or on single- or multi-day treks through breathtaking scenery to experience homestay with the hill tribes. In Hsipaw, tourists can visit one of the most unique markets in Myanmar, where tribal minorities from the region congregate to sell their own produce and other various products – This is no doubt a local affair. Hsipaw has developed enough basic traveller infrastructure to attract those who are looking forward to venturing even farther off the beaten track and learning more about the fascinating way of life of the robust Shan people while the rest of the country, particularly in minority states, still remains off-limits to foreigners.
Interesting Things To Do in Hsipaw
Trekking is usually one thing for which the town of Hsipaw attracts travelers. But if you are kind of tourists who are happy to just enjoy life in a genuine Burmese village, here, you also can find plenty of other options to fill your days. The vibe here is friendly and relaxed and many find themselves staying longer than what they have expected.
Trekking
Going trekking in Hsipaw- source: internet
The treks to visit and stay with hill tribes in the surrounding mountains are the major drawing cards for Hsipaw. The treks from Hsipaw are still quite authentic while some of the ethnic minority treks in other neighboring countries, which are overrun with tourists, give travelers the impression of being outdated. Even if you have only one day in town, there are quite various options for you to visit some of the outlying villages. Consider a one or two night journey that takes you to some of the more remote and isolated settlements if you have a few extra days up your sleeve. In spite of the dusty and steep terrain, you will be rewarded with not only magnificent views but also an amazing chance to spend a night or two staying with a Shan family. You can have your guesthouses organize all trekking services and prices will include accommodation, food and a guide. Tours in Myanmar
Cycling
Renting a bicycle and getting lost on the many dirt paths and roads that meander through the surrounding farmlands, it is such a simple way to have an enjoyable day. At the northern end of town, there is a historic Shan palace you can visit. Within riding distance from your guesthouse, you can also find waterfalls and a hot spring to make for a pleasant morning or afternoon.
Sunset
Gorgeous sunset in Hsipaw- source: internet
Climbing to the top of Five Buddha Hill to admire the impressive sunset over Hsipaw has been a favorite pastime of travelers to this town. It is said that all foreigners visiting Hsipaw for the first time will climb the hill for sunset. The questions on what the attraction was and why tourists would climb this hill at dusk made the villagers confused. Finally the locals started walking up Five Buddha Hill at sunset to find out what the fuss was about. They finally realized that the international travelers just wanted to see the charming beauty of the day’s end from a high vantage point. Now the local population themselves makes the climb to watch this daily occurrence from Five Buddha Hill.
Market
The Candle Lit Night Market in Hsipaw- source: internet
Don’t miss to visit this great market set up entirely for the local tribal population if you are (very) early riser. This market, which starts at 3:30am and usually finishes by 6am, is the place for the Kachin, Shan and other ethnic tribes staying in the area to gather and sell produce, clothing and just about any other kinds of merchandise expected to be found in a remote town so close to China. You have come to the right place if you wish to check out a market that has not witness the development as a tourist twist.
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