Once a summer capital of the country thanks to a balmy, cool climate, a popular tourist destination of Pyin U Lwin has recently suffered from a considerable decrease of visitors after the deadly August 15 attacks by ethnic armed groups. In a bid to prove Pyin Oo Lwin remains a safe and friendly destination, the authorities invite tourists to visit the annual hot air balloon festival that will rock the city this weekend.
This time 15 hot air balloons will take part in the festival. Besides the balloon show, there will be a hot air balloon competition in several categories with prizes for the top three performers of MMK5.5 million (USD3600), MMK4 million (USD2600) and MMK3 million (USD1900). According to the organising committee, to prepare for the competition, participants spend between USD4000 and USD7000 to equip their hot air balloons.
Sitting some 60 km from Mandalay, Pyin Oo Lwin offers a great opportunity to have a look at how the Raj once lived. There are not so many pagodas there but instead several beautiful colonial Tudor style houses, though in a dilapidated state, still survive.
Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar to Host Hot Air Balloon Festival
News in Asia
Pyin Oo Lwin, a scenic hill town in Mandalay Region, Myanmar, in the Shan Hills, is going to host its 15th hot air balloon festival. The five-days event will last from November, 8, till November, 12, 2019.