Kalaw is a cool hill town in the southern Shan State at 1,320 metres altitude, a former British hill station surrounded by pine forests and terraced farmland. The town is the most popular starting point for multi-day treks to Inle Lake through the villages of Pa-O, Danu, Taung Yo, and other ethnic minority groups, offering one of Myanmar's best cultural trekking experiences. The colonial-era architecture, weekly market, and crisp mountain air make Kalaw a refreshing contrast to the lowland heat.