The Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Myanmar

Myanmar has it all – from pristine palm-lined beaches to skylines filled with ancient temples, and mountainous regions with spectacular views to breathtaking lakes, rivers and waterfalls just waiting to be discovered. The explorer within will only thirst for more when you learn about Myanmar’s stunning waterfalls. Ready to dive in?

Dee Dote Falls

Famed for having mineral-rich, bright blue waters, Dee Dote (Dee Doke) Falls are a relatively new spot to waterfall hop. Situated about an hour’s drive from Mandalay and a two-hour motorbike ride from Pyin Oo Lwin in the Shan Highlands, Dee Dote definitely takes some effort to find. But, it’s an ideal destination for travelers sticking around the area for a few days.

Start early and plan for a full day to do Dee Dote and nearby Anisakan Falls. Renting a motorbike to get there from Pyin Oo Lwin will likely be the cheapest option; however, venturing to Dee Dote from Mandalay is quite common as well.

Take the Mandalay-Lashio Highway towards Mandalay (if leaving from Pyin Oo Lwin), and turn off before reaching the village of Ohn Chaw. Follow the road that leads to the Yeywa Hydropower Dam along the Myitnge River. A sign for Dee Dote Falls will eventually appear. A few Burmese restaurants and shops are located near the entrance, slightly off the main road. The area around the base of the falls tends to get a bit crowded. Hike further up Dee Dote’s natural terraces for the best-kept secret swimming holes.

There are caves to explore near Dee Dote Falls, too. If staying overnight in Pyin Oo Lwin, venture back in time to experience Anisakan Falls for at least half a day as well.

Anisakan Falls

The most essential trip from Pyin Oo Lwin is to Anisakan Falls, approximately six miles away. Located on the outskirts of Anisakan (Anesakhan) village, this setting is perfect for hiking. A number of steep forested trails allow the magnificent layered waterfalls, thundering nearly 400 feet down a vibrant green gorge, to be seen from various perspectives. A small pagoda rests at the base.

To get to Anisakan Falls from Pyin Oo Lwin, take the main Mandalay-Lashio Highway towards Mandalay. The rate for a motorbike taxi should be under $10 USD, round trip. Arranging a car is the easiest way to go, and will cost around $15 USD for half a day. These prices are negotiable and may be more or less depending on season.

The vigorous walk from the parking area to the foot of Anisakan (also known as Dat Taw Gyaik) Falls takes roughly 45 minutes. Go during Myanmar’s monsoon season (May-October) for a truly awesome experience. Wear proper hiking boots; though, as the pathways are especially challenging during this time of year.

The journey to Anisakan and back deserves a full day, or at least half a day when combined with Dee Dote Falls. Considering a longer stay? Book a room at the The View, a newer resort nestled on a facing mountainside with lavish bungalows and a fine dining establishment. The View’s views won’t disappoint, especially at sunset.

The View Resort, Taung Gyun, Anisakan, Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar

A Buddhist temple sits at the foot of Anisakan Falls near Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar

Pwe Kauk Falls

Pwe Kauk (Gauk) Falls (formerly Hampshire Falls) may not have the same ascending appeal as Dote Dee or Anisakan, but its closeness to Pyin Oo Lwin (approximately five miles towards Lashio) makes experiencing this attraction worthwhile. Pwe Kauk is a common picnicking site and sees an abundance of local tourists, which makes it a great locale for people watching.

The draw of Pwe Kauk’s stepped falls are the paths to wander about, bridges to cross, play areas for kids, and merchants selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. Head there by getting a taxi from Pyin Oo Lwin. Ask around for rates. The caves of U Naung Gu are a one-hour jaunt away for an added excursion.

Pwe Kauk (Gauk) Falls, Unnamed Road, Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar (Burma)

Pwe Gauk Falls outside of Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar

Nam Tok Falls

Nam Tok (Nam Tuk) Falls, also referred to as Hsipaw Falls, are found approximately three miles from Hsipaw in northern Shan State. Renting a bicycle or walking to reach Nam Tok is recommended. Bike rentals in Hspiaw are quite inexpensive.

Take the main Mandalay-Lashio Highway out of Hsipaw, towards Pyin Oo Lwin, and then follow a bike-friendly dirt track to the hilly escape. Nam Tok gushes into a small but deep pool at the bottom. Jump in to cool off after the effort it takes to get there.

Nam Hu Nwe Falls

Nam Hu Nwe (Nam Hoo Nwe) Falls are a bit further from Hsipaw than Nam Tok. They’re also not as remarkable, but certainly still shower guests with a refreshing blast. Nam Hu Nwe is approximately another mile and a half from Nam Tok. Journey back to the main road, travel a mile or so, and then veer off onto another dirt path.

Nam Hu Nwe (Nam Hoo Nwe) Falls, Kyaukme, Myanmar (Burma)

Kyaiktiyo Falls

There’s more to Kyaiktiyo than a golden rock. Step away from the mountaintop bustle and head down to Kyaiktiyo (Kyaik Htee Yoe) Falls. It’s a good three to four-hour hike there and back. Expect to pass by many stands selling anything from drinks to orchids while trekking. Some of the makeshift shops are even powered by generators and provide seats to rest.

Kyaiktiyo Falls stream into a fairly large basin of water. Bunches of locals will probably be swimming or hanging out on rocks encircling the pond. The water isn’t very clear, but the falls give off an energizing mist. Grab a cup of coffee or tea at the café close by, sip in the whole scene, and then climb back up to the golden rock in time to catch a truck back down to Kin Pun.

Kyaiktiyo (Kyaik Htee Yoe) Falls

Looking up at the Golden Rock of Mount Kyaiktiyo, Myanmar

Zin Kyaik Falls

Next to the Yangon-Dawei rail line, a bit off Mawlamyaing Road leading into the city of Mawlamyine, pours Zin Kyaik (Zin Kyite) Falls. Named after the nearby village, these falls are famous among locals, and get the most action around the Full Moon Day of Waso – the beginning of Buddhist Lent.

Similar to Pwe Kauk Falls, Zin Kyaik isn’t the most striking of waterfalls Myanmar has on display. However, it’s on the way to Myanmar’s fourth largest city and Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. During Myanmar’s scorching summer months (February-May), little to no water trickles down its massive boulders. The rainy season is the best time to go.

Kyone Htaw Falls

Kayin State’s remote Kyone Htaw Falls are a hidden oasis, remaining largely off the radar for most tourists in Myanmar. This unspoiled jungle gem beckons to be explored, and can be reached by driving about two hours from Hpa-An.

Foreigners may need special permission from the regional authority to visit Kyone Htaw. It’s advised to go with local guides, or have a day-trip prearranged with a tour company. These scenic, gorgeous waterfalls captivate with natural turquoise-colored water, so don’t miss out on the chance to dip in. Myanmar’s stunning waterfalls beg you to tread deeper. Imagine what cascades might remain undiscovered! Grab a bike, lace up your hiking boots; mingle with some locals to find the best ways to get off the beaten path and experience what else makes the “Golden Land” shine.

About the author

Chase Chisholm

Blogger

Life lover. World traveler. Teacher. Learner. Biker. Blogger. Capturing stories of people and the nuances of culture through various forms of media is my passion. Opportunities have landed me throughout Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Guyana, Mexico, Myanmar, Southeast Asia, South Korea and the United States. Check out chasechisholm.com to see my professional portfolio, or follow my personal blog joinchase.org and Instagram feed @joinchase to stay connected!