With the new international immigration checkpoint at Mae Sot now open, I'd like to travel overland to Hpa-an in Kayin State

With the new international immigration checkpoint at Mae Sot now open, I'd like to travel overland to Hpa-an in Kayin State

Published on Wednesday, 11 September 2013 12:01

Vipasai Niyamabha

Special to The Nation

Kawgoon cave in Kayin State (Photo - The Nation)

Is there a passenger bus that goes from Myawaddy to Hpa-an? Thanks a lot - Tim.

The opening of the international checkpoint in Mae Sot has generated a great deal of excitement among travellers who prefer to explore countries without needing to fly. According to the Tak Chamber of Commerce, the checkpoint is mainly being used Thai visitors to travel the 17 kilometres to Myawaddy and return to Mae Sot the same day.

There were - and may still be - checkpoints in the Karen area on the road from Myawaddy to Hpa-an and it's impossible to say for sure whether these restrictions have been lifted. While some Thai tour groups have gone through, it seems they were led by local authorities inside Myanmar.

Local people commute by old buses along a narrow and crowded road to Hpa-an. Some Burmese immigrants charter a bus from Myawaddy to Hpa-an. It's 150 kilometres, and usually takes two hours. However, if one vehicle breaks down, and there is no-one fix it, travellers can be stranded for hours.

Early this month, Nok Air launched a direct flight from Mae-Sot to Mawlamyine and it's possible to travel from there to and from Hpa-an through Zarthapyin Road. 

Hpa-an, the capital of Kayin State, sits on the east bank of Than Lwin (Salween) River. It is surrounded by rocky hills and caves and boasts the 1,000-metre Zwe Gabin Mountain as its landmark. At the foot of the mountain, you will find a large field displaying thousands of life-size Buddha statues. An interesting sight is Kyauk Kalap pagoda built on top of an unusual rock formation surrounded by a natural lake. A few years ago, ancient cave paintings were found in the mountains near the city. Caves to explore include Kawgoon cave 13 kilometres from Hpa-an, and Bayin-Nyi Naung cave 24 kilometres away. Have a great trip!

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/09/11/with-the-new-international-immigration-checkpoint-at-mae-sot-now-open-id-like-to-travel-overland-to-hpa-an-in-kayin-state/