Shan State
Myanmar's largest state, with a cool highland climate, where life on the water at Inle Lake and trekking from Kalaw are the most popular draws.
Shan State lies on the Shan Plateau in eastern Myanmar, bordering China, Laos and Thailand, with Taunggyi as its capital. The elevation is high, the climate cool, and many ethnic groups live here. Inle Lake is known for its Intha fishermen who row with one leg, its floating gardens and its stilt villages. Kalaw is a hill town from the British colonial era, from which you can trek through villages to Inle Lake. The Pindaya Caves hold thousands of Buddha images, and Hsipaw in the north is also a trekking destination. October to March is the best season, and Heho Airport is the main gateway to Inle Lake and Kalaw. Some remote areas are affected by conflict.