Things To Do
in Nawnghkio
Nawnghkio is a quiet highland town in northern Shan State, Myanmar, set between rolling green hills and patchwork farmland. It serves as a practical gateway to rural Shan villages, tea estates, and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding countryside. The town exudes a laid-back charm with wooden shophouses, Buddhist temples, and markets that wake early.
Visitors come for hospitality, simple Burmese-Shan cuisine, and easy day trips into the nearby hills and villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nawnghkio clock tower, a significant landmark in the town. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local tea shop, where you can savor delicious Burmese tea and snacks. Take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, absorbing the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Nawnghkio Market, a lively place filled with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly vendors and perhaps purchase some handmade souvenirs to take home. Afterward, explore the nearby temples, which showcase exquisite traditional architecture and offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of the community.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Burmese dinner, featuring dishes like Mohinga and Shan noodles. Experience the warmth of the local hospitality as you dine, and consider trying a local beer or palm wine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk around the town, enjoying the cool evening air and the gentle sounds of nature.
Embark on an early morning journey to Inle Lake, a stunning body of water surrounded by mountains. Enjoy the scenic drive through the lush countryside, dotted with quaint villages and rice paddies. Upon arrival, hop on a traditional long-tail boat to explore the unique floating gardens and stilt houses.
Spend the afternoon cruising across Inle Lake, visiting the famous Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, which houses revered Buddha images. Stop by a local workshop to witness traditional crafts such as silk weaving and boat making, and learn about the culture of the Intha people. Take time to savor a delicious lunch at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish caught from the lake.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot on the lake to watch the mesmerizing sunset over the water, with the mountains creating a stunning backdrop. Head back to Nawnghkio for dinner, where you can indulge in local specialties at a popular eatery. End your day by mingling with locals and sharing stories about your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 💧Bottle of water (500 ml–1 L) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-30 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental per day | $6-12 |
| 🛍️Local handicraft souvenir | $2-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic countryside with easy day trips
- Friendly locals and simple, authentic cuisine
- Limited nightlife and fewer modern amenities
- Rural transport can be slower and less frequent
- "မင်္ဂလာပါ (Mingalaba)" - Hello
- "ကျေးဇူးတင်ပါတယ် (Kyeizu tin ba de)" - Thank you
- "ဟုတ်တယ် (Ho te)" - Yes
- "တောင်းပန်ပါတယ် (Taung pan ba de)" - Sorry / Please
Places to Visit in Nawnghkio
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning market scenes with colorful produce, vendors, and locals beginning their day—great for candid street photography.
Rolling tea fields and distant ridges offer misty dawn or golden hour shots from hillside vantage points.
Old railway structures and faded signage provide a nostalgic backdrop for architectural photography.
Sunset over the town with silhouettes of pagodas and temple courtyards—quiet and atmospheric for silhouettes and color.
Food in Nawnghkio
Nawnghkio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful Burmese staple made with fermented tea leaves, nuts, and chilies; look for versions with pea flakes and sesame at local stalls.
Must-Try!
A comforting noodle dish with turmeric, tomatoes, and minced meat or chicken, common in the region and often found in small eateries.
A classic fish-broth noodle soup; widely available from street vendors and casual eateries across Myanmar, including Nawnghkio.
Hearty curries featuring vegetables, sometimes chicken or pork, served with steamed rice and a range of condiments.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where you can sample fried snacks, fresh fruit, and local bites; a good place to observe daily life and pick up snacks for the road.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes removed before temple entry.
Show respectful behavior around monks and religious sites; avoid touching or embarrassing gestures.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some religious sites have restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Nawnghkio
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for service in hotels, guides, and long-distance drivers; small tips go a long way and are appreciated.
Cash (Kyat) is widely used; some larger cafes and hotels may take USD or card, but rural places mostly rely on cash. ATMs are limited in small towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry days with clear skies; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent rain and high humidity; trails can be slippery; pack light rain gear and protect electronics; some roads may be less reliable.
Cool to mild daytime temperatures with chilly nights; pleasant for hiking and exploring without heavy heat or rain.
Nawnghkio at Night
Hiking in Nawnghkio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short-to-moderate hike offering panoramic views of valleys and distant mountains near the town.
A scenic route through nearby tea estates with terraced fields and opportunities for photography and fresh air.
Airports
How to reach Nawnghkio by plane.
Major airport with domestic and some international connections; typically reached by road from Nawnghkio in several hours via Mandalay.
Nearby regional airport near Inle Lake; good option for domestic flights and onward travel to central Myanmar.
Regional airport serving northern Shan State; useful for longer overland trips to Nawnghkio or connecting to northern routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Burmese and Shan communities, with people engaged in farming, tea cultivation, and local crafts. Minorities from surrounding areas contribute to a diverse cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favored pastime across Myanmar, with local leagues and casual games in town squares and schools.
Popular for exploring the surrounding countryside and tea estates on scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nawnghkio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted to vegetarian needs by avoiding fish sauce and meat; ask for tofu or vegetable curries and fresh salads, and confirm no fish sauce in broths.