Hpa-an, Pindaya, and Kalaw Celebrate ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026

Kalaw, located in southern Shan State

Myanmar’s Tourism Gems Receive International Recognition

Myanmar continues to shine on the regional tourism stage, with Hpa-an, Pindaya, and Kalaw earning prestigious accolades at the ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026. These awards highlight the country’s commitment to clean, sustainable, and community-focused tourism, making these destinations must-visit locations for travellers seeking culture, nature, and responsible travel experiences.

Hpa-an: A Clean Tourist City Award Winner

Hpa-an, the capital of Kayin State, received the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award 2026. Renowned for its stunning limestone mountains, river landscapes, and cultural heritage, Hpa-an has previously been recognised with the sixth ASEAN Environmentally Sustainable Cities Award in 2025. The city’s ongoing focus on cleanliness and environmental responsibility ensures that visitors can enjoy both natural beauty and well-maintained urban spaces.

Pindaya: Clean Tourism and Community-Based Initiatives

Pindaya in southern Shan State also received the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award 2026, adding to its 2025 success with the ASEAN Community-Based Tourism Award for Sikyainn Village CBT. Famous for the Pindaya Caves and rich local traditions, the town’s sustainable tourism efforts demonstrate a balance between cultural preservation and visitor engagement, offering tourists authentic experiences while supporting local communities.

Kalaw: Sustainable Tourism and Green Hospitality

Kalaw, a charming hill station in southern Shan State, was awarded the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award 2026 under the Urban Sustainable Tourism Product category. The town’s dedication to eco-friendly practices and heritage conservation has also earned individual recognitions, including the ASEAN Green Hotel Awards for Kalaw Heritage Hotel and Hotel SS-Aungban, and the ASEAN MICE Venue Award for the Merry-Go-Round Meeting Room at the Merriment Hotel. Kalaw’s blend of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and sustainable tourism initiatives makes it a standout destination for environmentally conscious travellers.

A Legacy of Awards in Southern Shan State

Culamuni Lokachantha Pagoda in Taunggyi

The southern Shan State region has consistently demonstrated excellence in tourism standards. In 2025, public facilities such as the restrooms at Culamuni Lokachantha Pagoda in Taunggyi were awarded the ASEAN Public Toilet Award, highlighting the country’s focus on hygiene and tourist-friendly infrastructure. These accolades, alongside the 2026 awards, position Myanmar’s towns as leaders in sustainable and responsible tourism in the ASEAN region.

Why Visit Myanmar’s Award-Winning Destinations

Travel to Hpa-an, Pindaya, and Kalaw offers more than scenic beauty; it provides a journey into communities committed to preserving culture, maintaining cleanliness, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. From exploring caves and hill landscapes to enjoying eco-friendly accommodations, visitors can experience Myanmar responsibly while contributing to its growing tourism legacy.

For more travel information and destination details, visit: https://tourism.gov.mm/

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