Myanmar Make A Difference

The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate

This is a lovely hotel and given that it is owned by a local business man, who has built it up from a small guesthouse, and that it has the best location - a literal stone's throw from the temples - it is definitely the place to stay. Situated around a pretty garden, all of the 82 rooms are spacious and stylish, there is a decent sized swimming pool, and nice open-air dining area. There is free, although slow, WiFi available in the communal areas and the location is second to none. With no entrance as such you can simply walk from the hotel right into the temples.

The Hotel - Kalaw Hill Lodge

The Kalaw Hill Lodge is a charming 32-bedroom boutique lodge located about a 20-minute drive from Kalaw. Each room has delightful views over the Shan hills and the lodge makes for a perfect base from which to explore the local countryside.Set within 30 acres of land, the Kalaw Hill Lodge is an ideal destination for those who want a base from which to explore the surrounding, off-the-beaten track countryside. Visit the local farm, head off on a day walk through local villages, go off mountain biking or take a more adventurous trek staying overnight in local homes.

Villa Inle Resort

Villa Inle Resort & Spa is spread over more than 20 acres on the eastern fringe of the lake near the village of Maing Tauk. This boutique property features 32 secluded lakeside villas and is the ideal choice for those seeking a unique experience, away from mass-market tourism. All villas at Villa Inle Resort & Spa are designed to harmoniously blend in with the natural environment, featuring hand-selected local paintings and antiques, high wooden ceilings, and spacious living areas and bathrooms. The lakefront balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to watch as fishermen glide by on the lake, and flocks of migratory and local birds take off from the surrounding treetops. The well-developed hotel grounds, which feature thousands of native trees and plants, are framed by both the lake and the mountains of southern Shan State. To enhance the sense of seclusion and privacy and also reduce our impact on the environment we have deliberately kept the number of rooms to a minimum.

Rose Garden Hotel

Keinnara Loikaw

Keinnara Loikaw is a great option in the area. The eco-property focuses very much on space and quality, resulting in a peaceful atmosphere and very spacious rooms throughout. Designed using local Burmese decor, each of the air-conditioned rooms provides excellent amenities including Wi-Fi, TV, mini bar, and complimentary coffee and tea, as well as a private balcony with outdoor seating. The resort restaurant offers a range of cuisine, and there is a great outdoor swimming pool area for those quieter hours. 

Inle Sanctuary Resort

Inle Sanctuary in Phayartaung offers luxurious stilt houses set on a pier going into one of Inle’s three lakes. The resort not only boasts fantastic lake views, but environmental practices. It uses renewable energy, running on 100% solar power, supports development in the local village and resources its food locally. Additionally, 10% of its income is donated to the village monastic school. The lodges are also built using locally sourced wood, creating a serene space in which to watch the sunrise and sunset, best viewed from the deck. When you are not exploring Inle Lake, return to the lodge for a meal in the restaurant or a drink from the bar. Other activities include cycling, cooking classes, fishing classes and massages.

Mandalay Hill Resort

Situated at the north east corner of the Palace Canal, this is a large purpose-built, 4 star hotel. Although lacking in some local charm, it offers all you'd need for a comfortable stay. The rooms are of a decent size, with mini bar, safe and TV. It has a large swimming pool, a good bar, a spa and gym. The staff are plentiful and very attentive and in a city very short of good hotels, the Mandalay Hill Resort arguably makes the best alternative to the Hotel by the Red Canal, which is so often fully booked.

Popa Garden Resort

Popa Garden Resort is a charming boutique hotel located at the foot of Mount Popa Taung Kalat (nat shrine). All the rooms have a scenic view of the Mount Popa and the surrounding area, with a total of 23 spacious rooms; deluxe rooms in wooden building and villas in bungalows. All are tastefully decorated with a fusion of traditional and contemporary design and amenities, offering a private balcony and living area in addition. The swimming pool is set within some lovely gardens and is the perfect place to unwind after touring, in addition to enjoying some of the local cuisine prepared in the hotel restaurant.