A visit to Pyin Oo Lwin will give visitors a fascinating insight into Burma’s unique mixture of colonial and contemporary Burmese culture. Previously known as Maymyo during the colonial period, the town was once the summer capital under British rule as it offered cool and comfortable respite from the heat of the lower plains. Lush botanical gardens, English government high educational buildings and grand mansions mark the colonial presence in the town with a strong anglicized atmosphere. What makes Pyin Oo Lwin special, however, is that its colonial history is equally as evident today as its Burmese and Asian roots. The high altitude and favourable climate make the town well known for fruit, vegetables and exotic flowers as an important trading town in the Shan Mountain region. Trade and colonialism brought Indian, Nepalese and Chinese people to Pyin Oo Lwin and they are very much integrated into the history and culture of this diverse town, with Indian sweet shops and high quality woollen pullovers famous in the area. There are also a few notable military academies in Pyin Oo Lwin where the Burmese army train their officers. Colourful pony-and-trap carts are all over the town and are not only a charming reminder of colonial times here, but are also one of the best ways to explore Pyin Oo Lwin.
