Inle lake Description:
Inle Lake is a beautiful body of freshwater in Myanmar’s eastern Shan State.
The placid body water is home to about 70,000 people from the Intha ethnic group. Most of these local residents live in traditional stilt homes above the water near the edges of Inle Lake. The Intha practice a unique one-leg rowing technique to propel their boats between the beautiful floating gardens that dot Inle Lake.
A boat tour of the numerous floating villages and gardens of Inle Lake is a must-do excursion on our luxury tours of Myanmar. There is a lively floating market that takes place at various times and places on the still waters. Fishing is still a large part of Inle Lake’s culture, and it’s common to see fisherman rowing boats with one leg to keep both hands on their nets.
The Hpaung Daw U Pagoda (Phaung Daw Oo) is a Buddhist shrine that rests on the banks of Inle Lake. The temple is arguably the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site in the southern portion of Myanmar’s Shan State. Five gilded Buddha images are enshrined at the heart of the temple. Generations of pilgrims have covered the five images in so many layers of gold-leaf they look like knobby snowmen made from lumps of gold.
The Nga Hpe Kyaung is a Buddhist monastery on the lake dating back to the 1850s. The monastery is famous for its collection of Buddha statues from numerous kingdoms throughout Southeast Asia.
Best Time to Visit Inle lake:
Inle Lake’s best weather is typically between November and May while the skies are mostly clear, and the average temperatures are lower. Chances of daily rain showers begin in June as the temperature begins to rise. The warmer weather lasts into October.
How to get to Inle lake:
Inle Lake has become Myanmar’s paramount natural attraction. The time you spend navigating the numerous villages that rest on the mirror-like surface of the Inle Lake surface are some of the most memorable experiences to be found in Myanmar. It’s a must-see for all of our guests on Myanmar tours.
Inle lake Highlights:
Inle Lake is located in the eastern boundaries of Myanmar near the southern portion of the Shan State. A direct flight from Mandalay or Yangon to Heho Airport is the best way to reach the Shan State. After arriving in the area, our guests transfer to a private vehicle and reach the Inle Lake area in about a half-hour.
Appropriate Attire:
Dress in cool clothing that you don’t mind getting a little wet while exploring Inle Lake. If you’re planning to visit any Buddhist shrines or temples in the area, dress modestly in clothing that covers your shoulders, arms, and knees.