Things To Do
in Lashio
Lashio sits high in the Shan State of northern Myanmar, serving as a gateway to the region's hill towns and ethnic cultures. The city blends colonial architecture with bustling markets and tea houses that linger into the evening. Surrounded by green hills, Lashio offers a calm pace, with day trips easy to reach into the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can explore temples, markets, and scenic viewpoints while using Lashio as a base to discover northern Myanmar.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Lashio Market, where the vibrant colors and aromas offer an authentic glimpse into local life. Interact with friendly vendors and sample local delicacies to ignite your culinary adventure. Don't miss the beautiful sunrise over the mountains, setting the perfect tone for your day.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Shan Hills, where the lush landscapes and terraced fields create a picturesque setting. Visit nearby tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process, indulging in tasting some of the finest brews. This relaxing trek will offer both physical engagement and peace.
As dusk falls, head to a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Shan cuisine while soaking up the ambiance. Experience live music performances that will immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the region. This lively atmosphere makes for a perfect end to your first day.
Kick off the day by visiting the stunning Lashio Lake, where a peaceful walk around the shore allows for reflection and appreciation of nature. Enjoy the fresh air and perhaps even engage in some birdwatching as the morning sun rises. Capture the beauty of the lake in a series of photographs that will commemorate your time in Lashio.
Take an agricultural tour to a nearby village to learn about local farming methods and participate in hands-on experiences. Relish a homemade organic lunch prepared by the villagers, making you feel connected to the land and people. Connect with nature and take in the rural charm that surrounds you.
Return to Lashio and unwind in a cozy cafe that specializes in local herbal teas and snacks. Engage in conversations with locals or fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences of your day. The calming atmosphere will prepare you for a restful night after a day well spent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi or motorbike ride | $2-6 |
| 🧭Local handicraft souvenir | $2-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich local culture and friendly people
- Good base for exploring northern Shan State
- Affordable prices and authentic market experiences
- Photogenic streets, temples, and hill views
- Limited nightlife and nightlife infrastructure
- Rougher roads and basic amenities in rural areas
- Language barriers in some areas
- Travel may be affected by weather and regional security considerations
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "A-kyi-zu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "To-la-ba-de" - Please
- "Doh-lay-ba-de" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Mingalaba, English ko pay par nae?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Lashio
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades and preserved shutters along the old streets, best captured in the soft morning light.
Vibrant market scenes with vendors, baskets, and locals in motion—great for candid street photography.
Impressive colonial architecture with arches and platforms; provides dramatic shadows in the late afternoon.
Temple complexes perched above Lashio offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills.
Food in Lashio
Lashio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flat rice noodles in a light broth with chicken or pork, herbs, and a drizzle of fish sauce.
Must-Try!
Myanmar's classic fish broth noodle soup, often enjoyed for breakfast; in Lashio you may find versions with local fish and lime.
Fermented tea leaf salad mixed with sesame seeds, peanuts, cabbage, and chili for a tangy, crunchy bite.
A hearty local curry served with fragrant sticky rice and pickled vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub to sample fresh produce, noodles, and everyday snacks from morning till late afternoon.
Street stalls along main avenues offering fried snacks, grilled fish, and savory curries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple compounds, and avoid touching sacred objects with bare feet or hands.
Greet with a smile, use polite language, and ask permission before photographing people.
Offer seats to elders, use the right hand for exchanges, and avoid public displays of affection in traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Lashio
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for guides, drivers, and hotel staff; small amounts (around $1–3 per service) are common for good service.
Cash in Kyat is widely used; some hotels and larger restaurants may accept USD or credit cards, but cash is safest for most purchases. ATMs are available in the city center, though they can be unreliable in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy rains, high humidity, and occasional flooding can affect travel plans; carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Milder daytime temperatures with cool to chilly evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and exploring temples.
Warm to hot days; plan outdoor activities for early mornings and use sun protection.
Lashio at Night
Hiking in Lashio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short ascent to a viewpoint above Lashio offering sweeping valley views and photo opportunities.
A longer forested loop in the surrounding hills, suitable for a half-day trek with manageable elevation.
Trail to hillside temples with sunset views and peaceful forest surroundings.
Airports
How to reach Lashio by plane.
Domestic airport serving Lashio; connect to Mandalay and Yangon where larger international options are available.
Major airport with more international and domestic connections; often used for onward travels from Lashio.
Nearby regional airport primarily serving Inle Lake and northern regions; feasible for combined itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Lashio and Myanmar, predominantly Buddhist, with Burmese and Shan languages common.
Ethnic group with deep ties to the region; presence in local markets, crafts, and hillside communities.
Smaller communities in the surrounding areas; multilingual and with distinct cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator and participant sport across Myanmar, including Lashio's parks and schools.
Myanmar’s traditional ball sport, often played informally in parks and community events.
Widely played in urban centers and schools; casual games can be found in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lashio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Lashio, ask for vegetable curries or tofu dishes; request no fish sauce or meat stock; many places will accommodate with advance notice.