Immerse yourself in local history, culture and traditions in Lashio. The town is set in the Yaw River Valley and surrounded by rolling green hills. Lashio is off the Myanmar tourist trail and is a rewarding destination for travellers in search of an authentic experience.
Things to do in Lashio
Soak in the Lashio Hot Springs and relieve tired muscles. Popular with locals, the natural hot springs are large and deep enough to swim. They’re not exactly postcard-perfect but the experience is authentic. Street stall vendors serve snacks and cold drinks.
The slow but scenic train ride from Mandalay to Lashio is a signature Myanmar experience. You’ll cross the picturesque Gokteik Viaduct on the way. It was built in the early 1900s and stretches across the forested Gokteik Gorge. It’s almost 100 metres above ground level at the highest point. You can peer out the train windows for dizzying views across the gorge.
Dine at local restaurants and try Shan Kauk Sway, a local delicacy in Shan State. The noodle-based dish features pork or chicken cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and served over steamed rice. Head to the night market to try authentic Burmese street food. Claim a colourful plastic stool and fill up on local favourites like “lahpet thoke” pickled tealeaf salad, “samusa” spicy lentil soup and “mohinga” fish and rice noodles.
Getting around Lashio
The Lashio town centre is small and easy to explore on foot. Motorised trishaws are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances, while taxis are a more comfortable option. Long-distance buses connect Lashio with Yangon and Mandalay and the train ride from Mandalay to Lashio takes around 15 hours.