Ultimate Travel Guide to Hpa-An, Myanmar’s Limestone Wonderland

Nestled along the Thanlwin River in the heart of Kayin (Karen) State, Hpa-An is one of Myanmar’s most visually striking and culturally rich destinations. Surrounded by limestone mountains, hidden caves, peaceful villages, and sacred pagodas, it offers a perfect mix of adventure and serenity.
 

Far from the tourist crowds of Bagan and Yangon, Hpa-An is still relatively undiscovered, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences, warm local encounters, and nature-filled exploration.

Whether you're hiking up dramatic peaks or meditating in echoing cave temples, Hpa-An will stir your sense of wonder.

📍 Where is Hpa-An?

Hpa-An is located in southeastern Myanmar, in Kayin State. It sits on the eastern bank of the Thanlwin (Salween) River, about 270 kilometers east of Yangon.

Distances:

From Yangon: ~6-7 hours by car or bus

From Mawlamyine: ~2 hours

From Myawaddy (Thai Border): ~4-5 hours

🛣️ How to Get to Hpa-An

🚌 By Bus:

Frequent VIP and express buses from Yangon, Mawlamyine, Bago, and Mandalay.

Comfortable and safe, buses are the most popular travel option.

🚖 By Private Car:

Ideal for groups or those preferring flexibility.

Scenic drive from Yangon passes through countryside and small towns.

🚤 By Boat (Seasonal):

During dry season (Nov–Apr), boats operate between Mawlamyine and Hpa-An.

A peaceful 4–5 hour journey offering views of riverside life and mountain backdrops.

🏞️ Top Things to Do in Hpa-An

1. 🕍 Saddan Cave

One of the most majestic and sacred caves in Myanmar. Inside, you’ll find:

Giant golden Buddha statues

Stunning stalactites and stalagmites

A secret exit that leads to a lake where you can take a boat ride beneath cliffs

Tip: Bring a flashlight and remove shoes at the entrance.

2. 🧗 Hike Mount Zwegabin

Towering over the plains at 722 meters, Mount Zwegabin is the region’s most iconic peak.

Trek time: 1.5–2.5 hours (steep climb)

At the top: A large monastery and panoramic views of rice fields and distant mountains

Often shrouded in mist at sunrise — a magical sight

Start early to avoid the heat and bring water!

3. 🕉️ Kawgun Cave

Also known as the "Cave of Ten Thousand Buddhas":

Covered in thousands of tiny Buddha images and inscriptions

Dating back to the 7th century

Offers a glimpse into early Buddhist devotion

4. ⛩️ Yathaypyan Cave

Quieter than other caves but equally impressive. Features:

Meditation spaces

Ancient carvings

A viewpoint overlooking the river and mountains

5. 🐘 Kyauk Kalap Pagoda

A pagoda perched on top of a towering rock spire in the middle of a small lake. The site is visually stunning and extremely photogenic, especially at sunset.

Often combined with a visit to Lumbini Garden, which houses thousands of Buddha statues at the base of Mount Zwegabin.

6. 🚣 Boat Ride on the Thanlwin River

A peaceful boat ride offers:

Views of limestone cliffs

Local fishing villages

Golden temples dotting the riverbanks

7. 🌿 Explore Local Villages and Rice Fields

Rent a motorbike or hire a tuk-tuk to explore:

Traditional Karen villages

Bright green rice paddies

Water buffaloes and friendly locals

Great for photography and cultural immersion.

🏨 Where to Stay in Hpa-An

Hpa-An offers a growing number of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and resorts with mountain or river views.

Recommended Places:

Keinnara Hpa-An – Upscale resort with bungalows, gardens, and pool

Hotel Gabana – Modern rooms and mountain views

Soe Brothers Guesthouse – Budget-friendly, helpful staff, trekking tours

Little Hpa-An Boutique – Charming new option with good reviews

🍜 What to Eat in Hpa-An

Hpa-An’s cuisine reflects Karen traditions as well as Burmese and Thai influences.

Must-Try Foods:

Mohinga (rice noodle fish soup)

Karen-style grilled pork

Fermented bamboo shoot curry

Sticky rice snacks with coconut

Lahpet Thoke (tea leaf salad)

Many guesthouses offer home-cooked dinners, and local tea shops serve up hearty meals for cheap.

📅 Best Time to Visit Hpa-An

Cool Season (Nov–Feb): Ideal for hiking and cave exploration; sunny and pleasant (~25°C daytime).

Hot Season (Mar–May): Dry but very hot; carry plenty of water.

Rainy Season (Jun–Oct): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, but slippery trails and flooded areas are possible.

Avoid trekking Mount Zwegabin during or after heavy rains.

🎒 Travel Tips for Hpa-An

Footwear: Easy-to-remove sandals or flip-flops for cave visits.

Clothing: Respectful attire (cover shoulders/knees) at religious sites.

Cash: Bring kyats — few ATMs and most places don’t accept cards.

Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities.

Trekking: Hire local guides through guesthouses or Soe Brothers for ethical, informative treks.

📷 Best Photo Spots in Hpa-An

Mount Zwegabin at sunrise

Kyauk Kalap Pagoda at sunset

Inside Saddan Cave with its lit Buddha statues

Rice paddies backed by limestone cliffs

Panoramic river views from hilltop pagodas

🧭 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for Hpa-An

🗓️ Day 1:

Morning: Visit Kawgun and Yathaypyan Caves

Afternoon: Explore Kyauk Kalap Pagoda and Lumbini Garden

Sunset: Thanlwin River boat ride

Evening: Local dinner and night market

🗓️ Day 2:

Early morning hike to Mount Zwegabin

Midday: Relax at the hotel or local café

Afternoon: Visit Saddan Cave

Optional: Explore nearby villages by bike or tuk-tuk

💡 Why Visit Hpa-An?

Hpa-An is a breathtaking blend of nature and culture, offering a peaceful alternative to Myanmar’s more traveled destinations. Whether you're an adventurer looking for a hike, a cultural explorer curious about Buddhist caves, or a traveler in search of peace among rice fields and riverbanks, Hpa-An delivers.

Its untouched beauty, welcoming locals, and spiritual landmarks will leave a lasting impression long after you've left.