Located in the middle of Nyaung Shwe valley in the southern Shan State, Inle Lake is the second largest natural lake in Myanmar. At 1328 meters above sea level, this vast picturesque lake is a mesmerizing beauty best known for its floating villages and gardens. Inthas (native lake dwellers) move about on the lake in their boats with a unique one-legged rowing technique. As the only mode of transportation is boats and motorboats, Inle Lake is figuratively named the “Venice of the East”.

Where to go in Inle Lake?

Within Inle Lake

Explore Ming Tauk, a bustling market with an authentic local atmosphere with variety of indigenous products from Inle Lake. The Nga Phe Chaung Monastery, supported by 654 teak pillars, is also known as the “Jumping Cat Monastery” because the resident monks have trained their cats to leap through hoops. Housing five sacred Buddha Images, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda is also famous for the 19-days festival which is usually held at the lake every October at the end of Buddhist Lent. Ascend the covered stairways to the hilltop Shew Indein Pagoda dotted with hundreds of ancient stupas. To gain insight into local cultures and livelihoods, visit some of the silverware or silk weaving craftshops.  Enjoy a sunset canoe ride and take in the beautiful sights of Inle Lake.

Around Inle region

Head to Taunggyi (literally meaning “the great mountain”) to experience its scenic charm and pleasantly cool climate. Another attraction of Taunggyi is Hot Air Balloon Festival held in November every year. Pindaya is a picturesque town with stalactite and stalagmite caves located on the mountain ridges towering the town. The pagoda festival in March is a colorful carnival attended by the different hill tribes of Taungyo (Pa O), Danu, Shan and Palaung. In Kalaw and the surrounding areas, there are trekking opportunities to several interesting villages belonging to the Palaung and Pa O tribes. Kakku is a hidden treasure with a unique temple complex of more than 2000 stupas lying hidden in the Pa O heartland.

Where to stay in Inle?

The Inle Princess Resort has always been Exotissimo’s top choice in Inle for its traditional décor and lovely surroundings.  It is located on the lake shore and its rooms are stilted bungalows overlooking the water- true bliss! The Lake View Resort is a deluxe boutique offering that overlooks the Inle Lake. Distinguished by its signature dome, the Inle Resort is one of the finest and designed in native style architecture.

Where to dine in Inle?

For Burmese or local Inthar specialties, we suggest Anne’s Restaurant and Nam Pan Restaurant, which lies on the northern and southern part of Inle Lake respectively. For dining choices near the famous Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, Inthar Lay Restaurant (a 2-storey wooden house) and Mr. Toe Restaurant receive the thumbs-up.

Off the beaten path in Inle

The Inle region boasts of ample biking and trekking opportunities. Head to Nyaung Shew and begin a biking adventure to Shwe Yan Pyay village and monastery nearby. Spend a relaxing day fishing in the Keng Tung fishing ponds and savor a local meal with the catches.