Shan State Overview
he high plateaus of Myanmar’s Shan State are most well-known for Inle Lake, which draws a sizeable number of tourists each year. Shan State is quite large, covering more land area than any other state in the country. Bordering China, Laos and Thailand, this region is home to numerous ethnic minorities, adding layers to Shan State’s cultural diversity.
Much of the Shan State’s interior is characterised by hilly plateaus, with the highest being in the state’s northern and southern reaches. The economy benefits from lead, silver and zinc deposits. Rice and teakwood are also harvested in rural areas.
Not surprisingly, the Shan tribe is the predominant ethnic group in this state. This demographic has historically clashed with the Burmese military regime; and tensions have led the national government to concede a small measure of autonomy to the region, though much of this is superficial.
Buddhism is deeply ingrained in this region, as the abundant stupas, shrines and pagodas testify. The region around Inle Lake is particularly rich in religious sites, and tourists who visit this region are greeted with ample hotels to accommodate their stay. Hotels range from government-run establishments to quaint, privately-owned lodgings with plenty of charm.
Visitors can shop at Lake Inle’s floating markets, trek through the hilly plateaus, and visit remote monasteries tucked into the mountains. Caves in Pindaya hold more than 8,000 Buddha images spanning three centuries. Each small town has a stupa or temple worth investigating.
Above all, the people of Shan State are warm and inviting. Wherever you travel, you’ll find locals ready share their experiences. Handicraft workshops offer insight into age-old crafts while religious ceremonies and festivals proceed as they have done for centuries. Above all, locals are kind, unassuming and eager to connect with visitors.
