City of Pyin Oo Lwin

Pyin Oo Lwin is a hill town situated roughly 67 km east of Mandalay in the Mandalay Region, positioned at about 1,070 m elevation. The cooler climate here contrasts sharply with the heat of surrounding lowland areas, making it geographically distinct.

The British developed this former military outpost into their summer capital during colonial rule, naming it Maymyo after Colonel May in 1887. This period of governance shaped much of the town's structure and layout.

The town is home to people from many different backgrounds, including Anglo-Burmese, Indians, Gurkhas, Chinese, and ethnic groups such as Chin, Kachin, Karen, Shan, and Bamar communities. This mix shapes daily life and local traditions today.

The area includes the National Kandawgyi Gardens, developed in 1915, which display numerous plant species and flower exhibitions throughout the year. A tall observation platform offers sweeping views, helping visitors get oriented and see the landscape from above.

Local industries depend heavily on strawberry farming, flower cultivation, coffee plantations, and silk production at the Sericulture Research Centre. These crops thrive specifically because of the cooler highland conditions and represent an unexpected agricultural focus for the region.

Location: Pyin Oo Lwin District

Elevation above the sea: 1,070 m

Address: Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar (Burma)

GPS coordinates: 22.03314,96.46673

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:17