Is Hpa An worth Visiting? 

The answer is Yes. Hpa An is very scenic, deep in tradition, and boasts an abundance of local hospitality. 
Local tourism develops very slowly which opens a chance to enjoy the area before it becomes a tourist hotspot. Traveling to Hpa An is very safe and there is no tourist trap. 

How many days should I spend in Hpa An? 

Hpa An and its surroundings themselves deserve 2 days to explore. From river boat trips to mountain hikes with rewarding views, things to complete a 2 days itinerary in Hpa An seems easy.
Since Hpa An has no airport, the best way to access this area is to travel by car from Yangon. Therefore, you should add at least 1 day for a trip from Yangon to Hpa An or 2 days with a stop by the mesmerizing Golden Rock. 
For those who have more time and are eager to uncover the charm of southern Myanmar, make your itinerary to Hpa An and Mergui Islands for 7 days or longer. 
 

Best Hpa An and Itineraries

There are ways to see Hpa An: by car, by boat, and by foot. It means when you tour this picturesque place, you can enjoy a riverboat trip, trek to the untouched mountains or simply take a car journey to some of its highlighted attractions. Here comes some examples of Hpa An Tours you should soak up

Hpa An Full Day Excursion

You will start the day by having our tour guide pick you up from your hotel and take you to Sadan Cave, one of the most revered locations in Hpa An, filled with numerous Buddha images. A brief walk from the cave leads to an awe-inspiring viewpoint that provides a stunning panoramic view.
Following that, we will take a boat ride to a nearby lake, allowing ample time for capturing memorable photographs. Your journey continues to Lumbini Gardens, where you will discover thousands of Buddha statues nestled at the base of Mount Zwekabin. In close proximity to these gardens lies Kyauk Ka Lat, an astonishing pagoda situated atop a natural rock formation in the center of a man-made lake.
After a short break, we will head to Kawgun Cave, also known as the ‘Cave of Ten Thousand Buddhas.’ Built by King Manuaha following a battle defeat, this large cave houses numerous Buddha images and Mon inscription carvings on its walls, some of which date back to the 7th century.
Enjoy the sunset at Thanlwin River.

Hpa An Tour 2 Days from Yangon

This is a quick trip but it does cover all the Hpa An postcards you should soak up in Hpa An. 

Day 01: Drive from Yangon to Hpa An  6 hours 

Depart from Yangon early in the morning and enjoy your lunch upon your arrival. Today's excursion will include a visit to several awe-inspiring caves, such as Kaw Gon cave, Ba Yint Nyi cave, and Kaw Ka Thaung Cave, known for their stunning inner stalagmites and remarkable Buddhist statues.
Conclude the tour by visiting Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda, located at the end of the Strand Road along the Than Lwin River bank. Finally, cap off your day with a relaxing sunset cruise.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hpa An / Meals: lunch, dinner

Day 02: Hpa An - Yangon

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Sadan Cave, the largest cave system in Hpa An. After exploring the cave, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on a small lake, providing excellent opportunities for picturesque photographs.

Our next destination is the exquisite Kyauk Ka Latt Pagoda, surrounded by a charming man-made lake. Before concluding your Hpa An Tour, make sure to visit Lumbini Garden to admire the numerous Buddha statues and stop by the Kayin Cultural Museum for a glimpse into the local culture. 
Return to Yangon. 

Accommodation: not included / Meals: breakfast, lunch 
For an in-depth tour to Myanmar, see our: Myanmar 20 days trip

Hpa An Tour Via Golden Rock ( 3 days from Yangon )

Experience the beauty of southern Myanmar with one of our most popular tour packages, featuring a lesser-known and less-crowded travel route. As you journey through the picturesque routes that connect various states, from Mon to Kayin, you will be captivated by the charming rural landscapes that form from diverse topography.

This tour is entirely customizable, providing you with multiple options to explore Mergui Archipelago or Dawei beaches, making it a perfect fit for any traveler.

Day 01: Yangon - Hpa An

Embark on a scenic drive this morning, taking you from Yangon to Hpa An, where you will be enchanted by the diverse landscape, from the verdant rice paddies and local farms to the sprawling coconut plantations.
Your first destination of the day is Kawh, one of the most fascinating caves in the region, renowned for its distinctive Buddhist decorations adorning the interior. Next, explore the remarkable Kyauktalat Monastery, which is located on a tiny island and boasts an impressive shape.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure, providing you with the opportunity to unwind and relax at your own pace.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hpa An, Meals: lunch, dinner

Day 02: Hpa An - Mawlamyine - Hpa An

Your full-day trip to Mawlamyine kicks off with a pleasant boat trip on the ThanLwin river. Take in the breathtaking landscapes that southern Myanmar has to offer during the two-hour journey, and make a stop at Kadow village to get a glimpse of the local way of life.
Next, you will be picked up by car for a scenic road trip, passing through Ein Du Kayin Village, where the traditional Kayin dress is skillfully woven, and many villagers are involved in the weaving process.
Upon arrival in Mawlamyine, enjoy a visit to the Mon State Museum or Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, renowned for its stunning views. In the afternoon, return to Hpa An, concluding a fantastic day of sightseeing.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hpa An / Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 03: Hpa An - Yangon

Start your day with an early rise for a visit to a bustling market before departing for Kin Pun. There, you will ascend by truck to Kyaikhtiyo, one of the most renowned pilgrimage sites in Myanmar. Take some time to marvel at the incredible Golden Rock, which defies gravity as it sits precariously on a rock.
Afterward, take a scenic drive back to Yangon. Once you arrive, you can enjoy some leisure time or visit the Shwedagon Pagoda with our knowledgeable guide to capture its beauty.

Accommodation: not included / Meals: breakfast, lunch

If you are looking for more personalized Myanmar Tour Packages, do not hesitate to contact us for a tailor-made tour option. 
 


Photo credit: Mathias Schmidt. For more photos, please check his instagram at :  https://www.instagram.com/_mathias_schmidt/?hl=fr 
 

Top things to do in Hpa An

Before you can create your own Hpa An itinerary, there are some of the area`s highlighted attractions

Mount Zwekabin 

For active travelers with an additional day in Hpa An, a trek up Mount Zwekabin is a fantastic option. This 772-meter high peak is a must-see for hikers, offering a spectacular view of the entire Hpa An region. The climb to the summit takes approximately two and a half hours, but the breathtaking scenery makes it well worth the effort. 
If you plan on ascending Mount Zwekabin, it is ideal to begin your hike early in the morning to avoid the scorching midday temperatures. Don't forget to bring ample water with you.

1000 Buddha Statues

This is one of the most impressive attractions in the area. Situated at the base of the stunning Zwekabin Mountain, the statues are sheltered under golden roofs, creating a remarkable sight. Take a stroll among the statues and enjoy the picturesque view of the mountain overlooking the entire Hpa An region. The entrance fee for the site is 4000 Kyat per person.

Kyauk Kalat Pagoda

For any Hpa An trip, do not miss the opportunity to marvel at the beauty of Kyauk Kalat Pagoda. Set on a tiny island, the pagoda sits atop a limestone pinnacle that appears fragile and precarious. The site attracts many photographers who want to admire the stunning Buddhist sites. 
 While there is no fixed entrance fee, visitors are expected to make a donation and receive an orange bracelet that is believed to bring good luck if worn until it falls off by itself.
Recommended reading: Top things to do in Mandalay. 

Kawtka Taung Cave

Discover one of Hpa An's hidden treasures, the Kawtka Taung Cave, adorned with countless Buddha statues. While most of the statues are situated at the cave's ground level, some are meticulously sculpted on the cave's walls. For a more extensive exploration, follow the sculptures outside the temple, along the lake to a smaller shrine. Remember to take off your shoes when entering a temple or pagoda.

The Kawgun Cave

The Kawgun Cave was my particular favorite of all the caves in Hpa An. This cave is home to hundreds of brilliantly painted Buddha sculptures going back to the 7th century. You may ascend some stairs for around 10 minutes at the cave's mouth to reach the top of a hill, where you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Hpa An. Overall, Kawgun Cave is one of the most intriguing and unexpected sites to see in Hpa An. Admission fee: 3000 Kyat per person

Taung Cave stone monks Hpa An

As you wander around the Taung Cave, admire the stone monks' sculptures outside the temple, lining the picturesque lake. Keep in mind the temple etiquette, taking off your shoes when entering a temple or pagoda. 

Saddan Cave

Explore one of Hpa An's must-see attractions, the Saddan Cave. A 20-minute walk through the cave leads to the other side, where you can rent a boat for 3000 Kyat to take you back to the main entrance. The boat ride offers a serene and breathtaking experience.
Note that the cave is closed during the rainy season but may be accessible depending on the weather conditions.

Yathaypyan Cave

The last cave on our Hpa An itinerary was Yathaypyan Cave. While I personally preferred the other caves, Yathaypyan Cave has its own charm, with small and big Buddha statues scattered around the cave. It's a great way to end your Hpa An tuk-tuk tour.
See also: Myanmar off the beaten-track destinations

Watch Sunset at Shwe Yin Hhyaw Pagoda

Perhaps the best place to watch the sunset in Hpa An, Shwe Yin Hyaw Pagoda is a hidden gem overlooked by most tourists but kept as a secret by locals. Situated on the banks of the Thanlyin River, this pagoda offers incredible views. Just wait for the sun to set and enjoy the pink skies. Tip: head towards the round shrine for the best view, where you'll also find benches facing the river.

Rice Fields of Hpa An

You'll come across stunning landscapes as you explore the spectacular Hpa An tourist attractions, a world apart from the rush and bustle of cities like Yangon or Mandalay. You may appreciate the gorgeous rice fields surrounded by huge mountains without interruptions. After you see these sights, you'll understand why Hpa An is becoming a more popular tourist destination.
 

Shwe Bon Thar Creek and Waterfall

A mere 20-minute drive from Zin Kyaik, you can find the tranquil Shwe Bon Thar Creek. It is nestled behind a monastery and pagoda and is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the shallow waters. However, for the more adventurous visitors, fear not! Our intrepid wild waters correspondent has got you covered. Simply follow the trail past the monastery from the bridge and locate the blue pipeline (shown here). Follow the pipeline for approximately 15 minutes and it will lead you to a serene and uninhabited three-level waterfall.  

Where to stay in Hpa An?

Hpa An has a wide range of accommodations. You`ll find hostels with cheap beds to luxury lodges offering ultimate comfort in style :

Hpa An Lodge

Located in a picturesque valley with stunning views of Mount Zwe Kabin, Hpa-An Lodge is a delightful hotel that offers simple yet spacious air-conditioned rooms. The serene ambiance of the surrounding limestone mountains, coupled with the lovely views, makes it an ideal overnight stay for travelers looking for a comfortable base

Keinnara Hpa An Lodge

Nestled in the valley at the base of Hpa-An's largest limestone mountain, Mt. Zwekabin, this boutique hotel is our top pick among all the accommodations in the area. Offering a collection of wooden cottages, each cottage is designed with Burmese and Kayin traditions in mind and is spacious, private, and secluded.

Zwekapin Valley Resort and Spa

The Zwekabin Natural Resort Garden & Hotel offers top-notch amenities, including a splendid swimming pool, and is situated alongside the majestic Zwekabin mountain. It's the sole hotel in Hpa-an that provides the opportunity to bask in the breathtaking scenery of the mountain and its stunning sunset.

Other Budget Hotels

Hpa An Breeze Hotel
Hpa An Inn
Little Hpa An
2023 is the best time to enjoy the best hotel rates in Hpa An since tourism has just come back step by step in the area. 
See our suggestion: Travel to Myanmar in December
 

Hpa An Travel Information 2023 - 2024

Start your travel to Hpa An with our up-to-date information about Hpa An:

When is the best time to visit Hpa An?

November to April is the best time to visit Hpa An. During this period, the weather is very pleasant with little rain, sunny days, and cool evenings. 
If you fancy a very festive time in Hpa An, the Thingyan festival or Burmese New Year is worth spending time on. 

Are there group tours or private tours to Hpa An?

There are no set departure tours to Hpa An with fixed dates so far. Private Hpa An tour is the best option in this case. 
In 2023 and 2024, it is advisable to book your tour in advance to benefit from the best service. 

Can I access Hpa An from the Maesot border in 2023?

Maesot border gate reopened in 2023. This could be a nice choice to take a holiday across two countries of Thailand and Myanmar. 
To cross the border, you need to have a valid Myanmar Visa or Evisa document. 
Remember to arrange your transfer before you arrive to avoid losing time.  
Please contact us before you take a travel via Maesot Border for the latest update

How far is Hpa An from a Myanmar Beach?

The distance between Hpa An and the best regional beach - Set Sae is about 80 miles which takes about 3 hours to drive. 
This Myanmar Beach is well known to the locals but not yet in many travel guidebooks. Expect a sheer beach experience with a white sand beach and a few tourists in winter. 

Is it easy when traveling alone to Hpa An?

You may not find any difficulties except for the language barrier in Hpa An. Local people do not speak much English. You may need to prepare a travel map, download apps for navigation, and get a Myanmar sim card for communication or access the internet in case.  

How to get to Hpa An from Yangon?

Hiring a private car is the best option to travel from Yangon to Hpa An. 
Public buses are other options for budget travelers. Mandalar Min Express runs five trips per day and charges $13 for a seven-hour journey. Additionally, Shwe Mandalar Express operates once daily on this route.