The high plateaus of Myanmar’s Shan State are most well-known for Inle Lake, which draws a sizeable number of tourists each year. Shan State is quite large, covering more land area than any other state in the country. Bordering China, Laos and Thailand, this region is home to numerous ethnic minorities, adding layers to Shan State’s cultural diversity. 

Much of the Shan State’s interior is characterised by hilly plateaus, with the highest being in the state’s northern and southern reaches. The economy benefits from lead, silver and zinc deposits. Rice and teakwood are also harvested in rural areas.