Things To Do
in Loikaw
Loikaw is the capital of Kayah State in eastern Myanmar, set among rolling hills and forested valleys. The town blends ethnic diversity with a relaxed, small-city pace, making it a gateway to nearby hill-tribe villages. You can wander lively markets, ancient temples, and noodle houses that reveal Myanmar's warmth.
The surrounding countryside offers scenic viewpoints, traditional weaving villages, and opportunities to meet the Kayah people with respect and curiosity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Loikaw early and check into your riverside guesthouse overlooking the lake. Stroll through the lush grounds and take in the panoramic views from the hilltop shrine. Feel the gentle breeze and watch local families arriving to pay respects at the gilded pagoda.
Head down to the town center for a light lunch of freshly grilled Shan noodles and warm tea at a street stall. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with colorful shops selling traditional baskets and handicrafts. Strike up a conversation with a vendor to learn about their weaving techniques.
Return to Taung Yin Shan Pagoda to witness a golden sunset illuminating the hillside stupas. Join monks chanting in the open-air pavilion as lanterns begin to glow. Savor a simple vegetarian dinner offered by the monastery kitchen under a canopy of stars.
Visit the Kayah State Cultural Museum to explore exhibits on ancient bronze drums, traditional jewelry, and historic artifacts. Listen to captivating stories of the Kayah's diverse tribal communities from a knowledgeable guide. Admire the intricate weaving patterns on display in the museum’s textile room.
Lose yourself in the bustling Loikaw Market filled with vibrant stalls selling fresh produce, dried fish, and handmade souvenirs. Sample local delicacies like pounded chilies with bamboo shoots and sweet glutinous rice. Practice your bargaining skills with friendly sellers offering hand-woven scarves and brass bracelets.
Settle at a riverside café and sip fragrant Shan tea as the market lights twinkle. Watch fishermen casting nets on the riverbank and children playing along the shore. Enjoy a hearty bowl of fish soup topped with aromatic herbs and feel the rhythms of small-town life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-5 |
| 🧶Local handicraft souvenir | $3-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Rich ethnic diversity and scenic hill-country landscapes
- Compact city center with markets, temples, and crafts
- Limited international flight access and some infrastructure gaps
- Occasional travel disruptions due to weather or regional tensions
- Smaller dining and nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyeizu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "Hote te" - Yes
- "Ma hote bu" - No
Places to Visit in Loikaw
Visit one of these nice places.
Multiple pagodas perched on palm-swept ridges offer dramatic silhouettes and sweeping valley views during golden hour.
Quiet riverside scenes with boats, locals fishing, and market activity at dawn or dusk.
Colorful storefronts, shaded lanes, and glimpses of colonial-era architecture ideal for street photography.
Food in Loikaw
Loikaw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Burmese fish noodle soup with a fragrant broth, lemongrass, and rice noodles.
Must-Try!
Fermented tea leaves tossed with peanuts, sesame, cabbage, and lime for a tangy, crunchy bite.
Rice noodles with a light garlic oil and chicken or pork, often served with a tangy dressing.
A fragrant curry featuring river fish, coconut milk, and local herbs served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, herbs, snacks, and everyday meals; great for sampling and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering most temples, and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Ask for permission before photographing people in villages or crafts; respect local customs and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Loikaw
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; small tips to guides, drivers, and service staff are appreciated when service is good.
Cash is widely preferred; Burmese kyat is commonly used; some larger hotels and shops may accept cards, but carry cash for markets, taxis, and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler nights; flowers in bloom and clear skies make for pleasant outdoor exploring.
Hot and dry; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Heavy rainfall and higher humidity; some rural roads become muddy and transportation can be slower; indoor activities or forest walks during dry spells are best.
Cool and dry with comfortable daytime temperatures; cool nights can be chilly; ideal for hiking and photography.
Loikaw at Night
Hiking in Loikaw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic hill trails with viewpoints overlooking valleys and fields; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Loikaw by plane.
Domestic flights connect Loikaw to Yangon and Mandalay; taxis to the city center are available.
Located near Inle Lake; serves domestic flights to Yangon and Mandalay; useful as an alternative access point for eastern Myanmar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Kayah State with distinctive cultures, dress, and languages; many communities are near Loikaw.
A mix of ethnic groups from the region contribute to Loikaw’s cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and on local pitches; casual games are common in parks during the weekend.
Popular in community centers and schools; pickup games occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Loikaw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors can rely on vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and noodle soups; ask for no fish sauce and for vegetable-based broths; inform cooks of dietary needs.