#1 Climb Kyauk Kalap
Kyauk Kalap is located in the middle of a pretty artificial lake and basically consists of a large piece of dramatic rock, atop which is a scenic pagoda.
Once you scale the rock you will be treated to amazing views of the surrounding scenery and you can even look across to dominating Mount Zwegabin.
If possible, try to come here at sunset when the views are absolutely spectacular.
There is also a monastery which used to be the home of a famous monk called U Winaya.
#2 Kawgun Cave
Kawgun Cave is famous as it is filled with works of art that are said to date from the 7th century.
It is also known for being built by King Manuaha who lost a famous battle in Myanmar and then took refuge in the cave, decorating it lavishly as he did so.
The cave is covered in thousands of small images of the Buddha which are made of clay, and there are also carvings etched into the walls of the chamber.
Take care if you come here during the rainy season which last from June to October in Myanmar as you may not be able to access the cave if there is a risk of landslides.
#3 Walk through Saddan Cave
Hpa-an is known for its cave, but probably the most spectacular is Saddan Cave.
The entrance is covered in statues of the Buddha and there are also a number of pagodas inside as well as clay wall carvings.
You can walk through the different chambers of the cave which takes around 15 minutes, and if you are not afraid of the dark then it is well worth it as you will pass amazing stalactites and walls that are made up of natural crystals.
Once you trek across the cave you can leave it through a hole on the other side which overlooks lakes and mountains.
#4 Shweyinhmyaw Paya
Shweyinhmyaw Paya is a delightful pagoda that is located in the north of the town.
Many people come here around sunset when you can climb a viewing tower and watch the pagoda glittering in the afternoon sun.
If you don’t want to climb the tower then you can also sit next to the river and take in the pretty architecture of the pagoda that way.
#5 Climb Mount Zwegabin
If you are looking for a bit of an adventure in Hpa-an then consider climbing its signature peak Mount Zwegabin.
The mountain dominates the skyline here and it takes around an hour to get to the top, or two hours if you take it slow.
There is a monastery at the top which some people may like to stay the night in for the full local experience.
Make sure to ask if this is possible ahead of time however to avoid disappointment as the monastery sometimes doesn’t accept foreigners.
As you walk up to the monastery you will also pass a number of pretty Buddha statues along the way.
#3 Walk through Saddan Cave
Hpa-an is known for its cave, but probably the most spectacular is Saddan Cave.
The entrance is covered in statues of the Buddha and there are also a number of pagodas inside as well as clay wall carvings.
You can walk through the different chambers of the cave which takes around 15 minutes, and if you are not afraid of the dark then it is well worth it as you will pass amazing stalactites and walls that are made up of natural crystals.
Once you trek across the cave you can leave it through a hole on the other side which overlooks lakes and mountains.
#4 Shweyinhmyaw Paya
Shweyinhmyaw Paya is a delightful pagoda that is located in the north of the town.
Many people come here around sunset when you can climb a viewing tower and watch the pagoda glittering in the afternoon sun.
If you don’t want to climb the tower then you can also sit next to the river and take in the pretty architecture of the pagoda that way.
#5 Climb Mount Zwegabin
If you are looking for a bit of an adventure in Hpa-an then consider climbing its signature peak Mount Zwegabin.
The mountain dominates the skyline here and it takes around an hour to get to the top, or two hours if you take it slow.
There is a monastery at the top which some people may like to stay the night in for the full local experience.
Make sure to ask if this is possible ahead of time however to avoid disappointment as the monastery sometimes doesn’t accept foreigners.
As you walk up to the monastery you will also pass a number of pretty Buddha statues along the way.