Inle Lake is the second largest lake in Myanmar and is located at the heart of the country. The lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides offering a breathtaking natural view. The area is rich in animals and plant species and you can see some of the rarest species here. The lake is home to several ethnic tribes of Myanmar who follow well-preserved traditions and cultures. Inle Lake is one of the must-visit places in Myanmar. A visit will provide you with an opportunity to interact with locals and learn some of their traditional ways of planting, fishing, cooking and making handicrafts. The villagers are warm and friendly who are keen to to open up to tourists. You will feel their warmth when you interact with them. Explore Inle and discover nature as you have never seen before.

Inle Lake, located in Shan State, Myanmar, is one of the country’s most famous and scenic natural attractions. This beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by mountains, is known for its calm waters, vibrant cultural traditions, and unique floating gardens. The lake is home to various indigenous ethnic groups, especially the Intha people, who have lived by the lake for centuries. Inle Lake is an essential destination for those interested in Myanmar’s rich culture, natural beauty, and traditional way of life.

Features

Floating Villages and Gardens

Inle Lake is famous for its floating villages and floating gardens. The locals grow vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce on floating platforms made from water hyacinth and bamboo. These platforms are anchored to the lakebed and are essential to the livelihoods of the local communities.

Leg-Rowing Fishermen

The Inle fishermen are well-known for their leg-rowing technique, which allows them to row their boats with one leg while using their hands to cast nets. This ancient method of fishing is not only practical but also an iconic symbol of Inle Lake and its people.

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda

Located on the western shore of Inle Lake, the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda is one of Myanmar's most important religious sites. It houses five small Buddha statues that are highly revered by locals. The pagoda is particularly famous for its Phaung Daw Oo Festival, which features boat races and religious ceremonies.

Inle Lake Wildlife

The lake and its surrounding areas are home to diverse flora and fauna. Migratory birds, including the endangered Sarus Crane, are often spotted around the wetlands. Fish species thrive in the shallow waters, and the surrounding hills host several ethnic groups and wildlife.

Ethnic Groups and Culture

Inle Lake is primarily inhabited by the Intha people, who are known for their traditional handicrafts, boat-building skills, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the Inle Lake Weaving Workshops, where local women produce intricate silk and cotton textiles. Other ethnic groups like the Pa-O, Shan, and Kayan also live in the region.

History

Inle Lake has been inhabited for over a thousand years. The Intha people, believed to have migrated from southern China, have lived on the lake for centuries, developing a unique way of life that revolves around fishing, agriculture, and community-based living. Over time, Inle Lake became a significant cultural and economic hub.

During the colonial era, the British introduced tea plantations around the lake, which remain today. The area gradually became known for its tranquil beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Today, Inle Lake is recognized as one of Myanmar’s most unique and important cultural landmarks.

Attractions Around Inle Lake

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda

As mentioned earlier, this is one of the most famous religious sites around Inle Lake. In addition to its spiritual significance, the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda is surrounded by a picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for visitors.

Inle Lake’s Floating Markets

The floating markets are another fascinating attraction. These markets are accessible by boat and are held in various locations around the lake. Visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, local vegetables, fruits, and other goods sold by the locals, who bring their products to the markets by boat.

Sangharama Monastery

This wooden monastery, located on the banks of Inle Lake, is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. The monastery features ornate wooden carvings and an elevated platform that provides stunning views of the lake.

Indein Village and Pagodas

Located at the western end of the lake, Indein is famous for its ancient pagodas hidden in a valley. This site is often visited as part of boat tours, and visitors can explore the Indein Pagoda Complex, which contains hundreds of small stupas and shrines, many of which date back to the 17th century.

Thale U Market

This vibrant market, located in a small village near the lake, offers a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. It’s a great place to shop for traditional textiles, handmade goods, and to sample local food.

Cruise on Inle Lake

Boat Tours

The best way to explore Inle Lake is by boat. Several boat tour operators offer half-day and full-day tours around the lake. A typical boat tour will take you to:

• Floating gardens
• Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
• Local markets
• Inle Lake Weaving Workshops
• Fishermen at work

The boats are traditional long-tail boats, and the tours are often led by local guides who provide insight into the life and culture of the Intha people. Tours can be tailored to specific interests, whether it's photography, culture, or wildlife.

Sunset Cruises

For a more romantic or peaceful experience, take a sunset cruise. The lake at dusk is a magical sight, with the light casting a golden glow on the waters and mountains in the distance. It’s one of the most serene and photogenic experiences at Inle Lake.

Hiking Tour Around Inle Lake

Hiking in the Surrounding Hills

Inle Lake is not only a destination for boat tours, but it also offers some excellent hiking opportunities. The hills around the lake are dotted with villages that offer a chance to explore traditional Shan and Pa-O culture.

• Nyaungshwe to Kalaw: A popular trekking route is from Nyaungshwe (the town near Inle Lake) to Kalaw, a charming hill station known for its cooler weather and colonial-era architecture. This trek typically takes 2–3 days and offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
• Pa-O Village Trek: Another hike takes visitors to Pa-O villages where they can observe traditional ways of life, interact with locals, and visit ancient monasteries.

Cultural Treks

Many trekking tours around Inle Lake incorporate visits to the region’s unique cultural sites, including hidden temples, local markets, and opportunities to witness traditional practices in the hill tribes.

Entrance Tickets

• Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda: Entrance fee is 1,000 MMK per person.
• Inle Lake Boat Tour: 10,000 MMK per person for the scenic boat tours that cover most of the lake's main attractions.
• Indein Village: There may be a small fee for visiting the Indein Pagoda Complex, typically around 2,000 MMK.
• Markets and Monasteries: Most local markets and monasteries are free to visit, but small donations are appreciated.

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change.

Location and Address

• Location: Inle Lake is located in Nyaungshwe Township, Shan State, Myanmar.
• Coordinates: Latitude 20.5241° N, Longitude 96.9030° E.
• Nearest Town: Nyaungshwe (11 kilometers away).
• Nearest Airport: Heho Airport (HEH), 35 kilometers away from Nyaungshwe.

How to Get There (Transportation)

By Air

• Heho Airport (HEH) is the nearest airport to Inle Lake. It has daily flights from Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw.
• From Heho, you can take a taxi to Nyaungshwe (about 45 minutes by car).

By Bus

• Regular buses operate from Yangon and Mandalay to Nyaungshwe. The bus ride can take anywhere from 10-12 hours depending on your starting point.

By Train

• Trains are available from Yangon and Mandalay to Shwenyaung, which is the nearest train station to Inle Lake. From Shwenyaung, a short taxi ride will bring you to Nyaungshwe and Inle Lake.

By Car

• You can rent a private car or take a taxi from Yangon or Mandalay to Nyaungshwe. The journey can take up to 10 hours from Yangon or 7 hours from Mandalay.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

• November to February: Ideal weather with cool, dry conditions. The lake is most beautiful at this time, and many festivals take place.
• March to May: Hot and dry season. While it's still a good time to visit, the weather can be quite hot, especially in the afternoons.
• June to October: Monsoon season. While the lake is lush and green, there are heavy rains, which may make some roads and trails impassable.

What to Pack

• Light, Comfortable Clothes: For warm temperatures, but also bring a light jacket for the cool mornings and evenings.
• Mosquito Repellent: Especially useful around dawn and dusk.
• Camera: For capturing the beauty of the lake and its people.
• Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, particularly on the water.

Cultural Etiquette

• When visiting religious sites like the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
• It's customary to ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially in remote villages.