Kalaw is a hill town, with a population of
about 200,000. It is located in Southern
Shan State. It is famous for its cool climate
and scenic views. It is also known as Pine
Land. And the air is fresh, carrying the
sweet smell of the pine trees.
There are many places of interest in Kalaw such as the colourful
flower-lined streets, coffee and tea plantations, elephant camps,
the Shwe U Min Pagoda, and the Palaung village. The Palaung
people grow tea, damsons and mangoes on the hillsides. Two
enjoyable outdoor activities in Kalaw are hiking and camping
around the town and up in the hills.
Like any other town, Kalaw certainly has markets of its own.
However, there is what they call the “Big Market Day”, held
on a five-day cycle. On this day, vendors or sellers from
the suburbs and neighbouring villages come to sell their
wares in or around the town’s market. Their wares range
from fruits and vegetables to assorted articles to a variety
of local popular snacks. How Kalaw’s townsfolk as well as
local and foreign tourists throng the marketplace of the Big
Market Day!
