Getting to Know Heho Airport (HEH)

Heho Airport serves the small town of Heho in Kalaw Township, Shan State, in eastern Myanmar. For most travellers it is simply the airport for Inle Lake, and it is also the main air link for Taunggyi, the state capital, and the hill town of Kalaw. Its runway is long enough for jet aircraft as well as the turboprops used on many domestic routes.

Heho Airport Location and Distance to Inle Lake

The airport sits up on the Shan Plateau, so the air is noticeably cooler than in Yangon or Mandalay. Nyaungshwe, the usual base for Inle Lake, and Taunggyi are both around an hour or less away by road, and Kalaw lies to the west. Travel times vary with road conditions.

Terminal and Facilities at Heho

Heho has a compact terminal serving domestic flights. Facilities are basic, so it is wise to bring snacks and water for any wait. Formalities are usually quick given the size of the airport.

Airlines and Routes from Heho Airport

Domestic carriers link Heho with Yangon and Mandalay, and with other destinations in Myanmar. Airlines serving the airport include Myanmar National Airlines and Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, and other domestic operators may also fly here. Services can change at short notice, so check the latest schedule before you travel.

Getting from Heho Airport to Inle Lake and Taunggyi

• Taxi: Taxis wait outside the terminal and are the easiest way to reach Nyaungshwe, Taunggyi or Kalaw. Agree the fare before setting off.
• Hotel transfer: Many hotels around Inle Lake can arrange a pickup.
• Local transport: Buses and pickup trucks pass along the main road about two kilometres from the airport, which suits travellers on a tight budget.

Things to See Around Heho

Inle Lake is known for its stilt-house villages, floating gardens and the distinctive leg-rowing fishermen of the Intha people. Boat trips from Nyaungshwe visit markets, workshops and pagodas around the lake. Kalaw is a popular starting point for multi-day treks to Inle through hill villages, while Taunggyi is a lively regional centre.

Travel Tips for Flying from Heho

Domestic schedules in Myanmar can shift, so reconfirm your flight a day ahead and leave extra time for connections in Yangon or Mandalay. Check the latest travel advisories and flight schedules for Myanmar before you set out.

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