Pyin Oo Lwin is a stepping stone in to the heights of the Shan Hills from the city of Mandalay. Established by the British way back in the 1890s as a summer getaway, the place was prized for its cool climate and soothing highland breezes. Today, the Darjeeling-esque vibes of the tree-spotted centre remain, while Pyin continues to morph with the influx of other cultures and people, mainly from both India and China. Visitors often enjoy simply strolling the walkable Circular Road, where the half-timbered facades of Anglo cottages rise behind manicured rose gardens. Pyin Oo Lwin tour guides can also reveal the features copied from Big Ben on the town's Purcell Tower, or help unravel the wonders of the blooming European flora in the acclaimed National Kandawgyi Gardens. There are plenty of natural draws as well; for one, the valleys up north hide rural farmhouses laden with oranges. Then just a short rumbling ride away in the forests, the Anisakan Falls flow over muddy ridges, while the streams of Pyeik Chin Miang offer a chance to bathe in the shadow of mysterious Buddhist images and pagodas.