Is Kalaw Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kalaw is generally safe for solo female travelers. The locale is a tranquil hill station and trekking is popular among tourists. Locals are typically friendly and helpful. Like with any other place, it is important for solo travelers to remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Standard safety measures like not leaving personal belongings unattended and taking reputable transportation services should be practiced.

Safety rating

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How safe is Kalaw?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Kalaw is generally a safe city, even during the night. Like many other cities in Myanmar, the crime rate is relatively low, and locals are often friendly and helpful. That being said, as a solo female traveler, it's always important to stay vigilant, especially during night hours. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas and always make sure someone knows your whereabouts for extra safety.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Kalaw is generally safe. Taxis, local buses, and trains are available and frequented mostly by locals, which can offer a more authentic experience. As a solo female traveler, you may experience some language barriers but overall, criminal activities are quite low. Though some areas may lack modern comforts such as air conditioning, public transportation is usually reliable. As always, just remember to exercise basic safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping belongings secure.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Kalaw is generally a safe and friendly town for solo female travelers. Street harassment is minimal, and most locals are respectful and hospitable. The residents are well-used to tourists and make an effort to ensure their stay is pleasant. Nevertheless, it's always wise to exercise general safety precautions as in any other place.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Very low

Kalaw, in Myanmar, is a relatively safe town with a low risk of petty crimes. As it is largely a trekking hub, the locals are used to tourists and are generally respectful. However, as it is true for every travel destination, it’s advised to always stay aware of your surroundings, keep your personal belongings secure, and not wander alone in isolated areas at night.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water directly in Kalaw is not highly recommended. Most locals and foreigners tend to avoid it for drinking purpose due to potential bacterial or parasite content which could lead to health issues. For safer alternatives, opt for commercially bottled water.

Is Kalaw safe to travel?

Is Kalaw safe right now?

Before your visit to Kalaw, it's essential to check travel advisories for Myanmar, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The United States government advises against any travel to Burma owing to civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary local law enforcement. Reconsider any voyage related to Burma due to limited or inadequate health care and emergency medical resources and areas infested with land mines and unexploded ordnances. Urging to exercise heightened caution due to potential wrongful detentions. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 22, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Canadian Government advises avoiding all travel to Myanmar due to the risk of politically motivated violence and civil unrest. If you are in Myanmar, there is a risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, potentially leading to arrest and detention. It is recommended that you depart immediately, if possible to do so safely. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Australian Government advises against traveling to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation, civil unrest, and potential armed conflict. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 12, 2024

Safety in Myanmar