Mon State

Mawlamyine, the capital of Mon State, is located at the banks of Thanlwin River and is the ideal place for a journey back into colonial times. Explore the charming, green city surrounded by the river to the west and to the east by a canopy of shimmering pagodas by trishaw, drive past the Mahamuni Pagoda where women too are allowed to enter the main Buddha chamber, the Kyaikthanlan Pagoda from where you have terrific views over the city, and don't forget a visit to the three mosques built during British rule.

Saluti Mosque, visible from far away because of it's bright turqoise-coloured facade, the Mogul Shah Mosque with its plain Moorish arches, and the Kaladan Mosque, which looked like a birthday cake until several years ago, but has been renovated now and the facade covered with white tiles to give this place a more 'decent' look.

The rainy season lasts from mid-May until mid-October. For the next few months, the weather is quite reasonable. In fact, it is actually cool in Mandalay at night and near freezing in Kalaw, near Inle Lake. From mid-February, it gets increasingly hot until the rains arrive once more. The Burmese New Year in April, at the peak of the hot season, means much fun and throwing water at all concerned. November to February are the best months to visit.