Language

The official language of Thailand is Thai. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Chiang Rai. In Loikaw, the official language is Burmese. However, English is not as widely spoken as in Thailand.

Currency

The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). The official currency of Myanmar is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels in both countries.

Distance

The distance between Mueang Chiang Rai and Loikaw is approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Loikaw from Mueang Chiang Rai:

  • By bus: The most affordable option is to take a bus from Chiang Rai to Tachileik on the Thai side of the border. From Tachileik, you can take a taxi or bus to Loikaw. The journey takes around 8-10 hours.
  • By car: If you have your own car, you can drive from Chiang Rai to Loikaw. The journey takes around 6-8 hours.
  • By plane: There are no direct flights from Chiang Rai to Loikaw. However, you can fly from Chiang Rai to Yangon and then take a connecting flight to Loikaw.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Mueang Chiang Rai to Loikaw will vary depending on your mode of transportation and budget. Here is an approximate breakdown of expenses:

  • Bus: 500-1,000 THB (15-30 USD)
  • Car: 1,500-2,000 THB (45-60 USD) for petrol
  • Plane: 2,000-3,000 THB (60-90 USD)
  • Accommodation: 300-1,000 THB (9-30 USD) per night
  • Food: 200-500 THB (6-15 USD) per day

Best time to go

The best time to visit Loikaw is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

What to Eat

Loikaw is home to a variety of delicious Burmese dishes. Here are a few of the most popular dishes to try:

  • Mohinga: A rice noodle soup with fish or chicken
  • Shan noodles: A type of noodle soup with a variety of toppings
  • Ohn no khao swè: A glutinous rice dish with coconut milk and jaggery
  • Laphet thoke: A tea leaf salad
  • Nga htamin: A fermented fish dish

Where to Go

Loikaw is a small city, but there are still plenty of things to see and do. Here are a few of the most popular attractions:

  • Taung Kwe Pagoda: A Buddhist pagoda with stunning views of the city
  • Loikaw Market: A bustling market where you can buy souvenirs, food, and other items
  • Inle Lake: A beautiful lake located just a short drive from Loikaw
  • Hpa-an: A nearby town with several interesting temples and caves
  • Mawlamyine: A coastal town with beautiful beaches and colonial architecture

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Myanmar?

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Myanmar. You can apply for a visa online or at your nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate.

Is it safe to travel to Loikaw?

Loikaw is a safe city to travel to. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

What is the best way to get around Loikaw?

The best way to get around Loikaw is by foot or by bicycle. You can also hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for longer distances.

What are the best places to stay in Loikaw?

There are a number of guesthouses and hotels in Loikaw to choose from. Some of the most popular options include the Loikaw Lodge, the Golden Dream Hotel, and the Paradise Hotel.

What are the best things to do in Loikaw?

There are a number of things to see and do in Loikaw, including visiting Taung Kwe Pagoda, exploring Loikaw Market, and taking a boat trip on Inle Lake.