Inle Lake - Discovering Myanmar

Travelling to Inle Lake

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Inle Lake, a pretty good destination in Myanmar (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Inle Lake and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Inle Lake, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Myanmar, here's everything to know about Inle Lake for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Inle Lake

Inle Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Shan State of Myanmar. It is surrounded by mountains and has a surface area of approximately 116 square kilometers. The lake is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds and various species of fish. The Intha people, who are known for their unique fishing technique, also live around the lake and rely heavily on its resources. In recent years, Inle Lake has become a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boat rides, trekking, and visiting local villages to experience traditional Intha culture.

What to visit in Inle Lake

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Inle Lake in Myanmar along with their brief information: 1. Inle Lake: Inle Lake is a stunning freshwater lake located in Myanmar's Shan State. The lake is known for its scenic beauty, floating gardens, and unique fishermen's style and method, which involves balancing one leg on the boat and the other on a paddle. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake, visit local villages, markets, and monasteries.
2. Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda: The Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on the western shore of Inle Lake. The temple enshrines five small gilded Buddha images, which are heavily adorned with gold and jewels, and are believed to be about 800 years old. Visitors can witness the annual Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda festival, one of the biggest festivals in Myanmar, held during September and October.
3. Nga Hpe Kyaung Monastery: Nga Hpe Kyaung Monastery is a beautiful wooden monastery located on the eastern shore of Inle Lake. It dates back to the 1850s and is known for its intricate wooden carvings and beautiful Buddha images. Visitors can also witness the daily routine of monks, who live here in peace and serenity.
4. Ywama Floating Market: The Ywama Floating Market is the largest floating market in Inle Lake, located close to the shore. It's a bustling and vibrant market where visitors can witness the local villagers buying and selling daily necessities and handicrafts. Visitors can shop here for local souvenirs and sample some Myanmar's traditional cuisine.
5. Shwe Yaunghwe Kyaung Monastery: The Shwe Yaunghwe Kyaung Monastery is a beautiful teakwood monastery located on the eastern shore of Inle Lake. It dates back to the late 19th century and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes. Visitors can also witness the monks chanting and meditating inside the monastery.
6. Red Mountain Estate Vineyards and Winery: The Red Mountain Estate Vineyards and Winery is located in the hills surrounding Inle Lake and is Myanmar's first winery. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and catch a glimpse of the entire winemaking process, from grape harvesting to bottling. Visitors can also sample some of the famous Myanmar wines and local cuisine at the winery's restaurant.
These are some of the top tourist attractions of Inle Lake in Myanmar that you shouldn't miss during your visit.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Myanmar, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Inle Lake.

When to go on holiday to Inle Lake

The best time to visit Inle Lake is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During these months, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C and the sky remains clear. However, keep in mind that this is peak season, and prices may be higher. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind slightly warmer temperatures, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, which are from March to May and September to November. During these times, the weather is still pleasant, with occasional rains in the afternoon. June to August is the rainy season, and it's not recommended for outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Inle Lake

To get to Inle Lake in Myanmar, you can either take a domestic flight or a bus from major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, or Kalaw. 1. By Flight: - The nearest airport to Inle Lake is Heho Airport.
- You can take a flight from Yangon or Mandalay to Heho Airport, which is around 1-hour flight.
- From Heho, you can take a taxi or private car to Inle Lake, which takes around 1 hour.
2. By Bus: - You can take a bus from Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, or Kalaw to Nyaungshwe, the town nearest to Inle Lake.
- The journey time varies depending on where you are coming from, but it usually takes about 7-8 hours from Yangon and 4-5 hours from Mandalay.
- From Nyaungshwe, you can take a taxi or private car to Inle Lake, which takes around 15-20 minutes.
Please note that road conditions in Myanmar can be challenging, so it's essential to choose a reputable bus operator if you are traveling by bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Inle Lake, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Inle Lake

Sure, here are some typical foods of Inle Lake in Myanmar with a description for each of them: 1. Shan noodles - This is a popular dish in Inle Lake consisting of thin rice noodles served with a meat or vegetable broth and accompanied by pickled vegetables, chopped peanuts, and crispy fried garlic on top.
2. Tea leaf salad - Also known as Laphet Thoke, this is a traditional salad made from fermented tea leaves mixed with fried garlic, nuts, tomatoes, dried shrimp, and other ingredients.
3. Fish curry - Given the abundance of freshwater fish in the lake, fish is a popular ingredient in local dishes. The fish curry in Inle Lake usually consists of a spicy tomato-based sauce with chunks of fresh fish and served with rice or noodles.
4. Tomato salad - This is a simple yet flavorful dish consisting of sliced fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers, dressed with lime juice, fish sauce, and chili pepper.
5. Shan rice - Similar to biryani rice, Shan rice is a fragrant and spicy rice dish cooked with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and other aromatic spices, often served with a side of curry or stir-fried vegetables.
6. Tofu Nway - This is basically a Shan-style noodle soup with fresh tofu, bean sprouts, and vegetables in a rich broth made from soybean flour, garlic, and chili powder.
7. Fried rice cakes - These crispy rice cakes are made by mixing rice flour with mashed potatoes, onion, garlic, and various spices before being pan-fried until golden brown on the outside. They're typically served with a sweet and tangy tomato sauce on the side. I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Myanmar here.

Is Inle Lake an expensive destination for tourists?

Inle Lake can be considered a relatively expensive destination in Myanmar for tourists, especially compared to other parts of the country like Yangon or Mandalay. The cost of accommodations, transportation, and food tends to be higher due to the limited tourism infrastructure in the area. However, there are also options for budget travel and affordable accommodations and dining, so it is still possible to enjoy Inle Lake without breaking the bank. It's recommended to do some research and budget planning in advance to ensure a comfortable and affordable stay.

Where to find accomodation in Inle Lake

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Inle Lake, Myanmar are Nyaungshwe and the surrounding villages, such as Maing Thauk and Mine Thauk. These areas are located within close proximity to the lake and offer a wide range of accommodation options, including budget hostels, guesthouses, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts. Staying in Nyaungshwe will also provide convenient access to the town's markets, restaurants, and shops, and to many of the lake's main attractions, including the floating gardens, Inthar Heritage House, and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda.
You can check hotel prices at Inle Lake here:
Booking.com

Is Inle Lake a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Inle Lake is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it's always a good idea to take common sense precautions such as not carrying too much cash with you and being aware of your surroundings. It's also important to respect the local customs and culture. It's recommended to check the latest travel advisories before your trip to Myanmar.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Myanmar here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Inle Lake.

What type of travelers will enjoy Inle Lake the most?

Inle Lake in Myanmar is a destination that offers a variety of experiences and can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it is particularly suited for couples and families who are looking for a serene, laid-back and romantic getaway amidst nature. Here are a few reasons why: - Mesmerizing scenic views: Inle Lake is surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery and serene waters, creating a picturesque landscape that is perfect for couples seeking some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Cultural insights: The local communities around the lake are home to several diverse ethnic groups who continue to maintain their unique traditions and ways of life which makes for fascinating cultural immersion. Families with children can enjoy learning about the different local cultures and lifestyles.
- Boat trips: One of the most popular activities at Inle Lake is to take a boat trip to explore the lake and its surroundings. Couples and families can enjoy paddling through local villages, floating gardens, and stilted houses that dot the waterscape.
- Relaxation: There are many wellness spas and retreats located around Inle Lake, providing ample opportunities for couples and families to rejuvenate amidst the tranquil surroundings.
While it may not be the ideal destination for young people looking for nightlife and entertainment, Inle Lake promises to be a memorable experience for couples and families seeking peace, natural beauty, and cultural insights.

How to get around Inle Lake

The most common modes of transportation for moving around Inle Lake in Myanmar are boats and bicycles. Boats can be rented to take you to different areas around the lake, including boat tours to various villages and attractions. Bicycles are also a popular choice for visitors who prefer to move around under their own power. Some travelers also choose to hire a motorcycle or scooter to get around, but keep in mind that the roads in the area may be rough in some places, so caution is advisable when riding.

What to see around Inle Lake

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Inle Lake: 1. Kakku Pagoda Complex - It is a spectacular complex of over 2,500 pagodas and temples, built in the Shan style, located about 2.5 hours from Inle Lake.
2. Taunggyi – It is the capital city of Shan State, located about an hour from Inle Lake. It is a great place to experience local markets, hilltop temples, and cultural events.
3. Pindaya - It is about 2 hours away from Inle Lake and is known for its famous Pindaya Caves, which are filled with over 8,000 Buddha statues.
4. Indein Village - It is a small, charming village on the western bank of Inle Lake, known for its beautiful ancient stupas and temples. It can be reached by a scenic boat ride from Inle Lake.
5. Samkar Lake - It is a very peaceful and scenic place, located about 1.5 hours away from Inle Lake. It provides the chance to experience the rural lifestyle of Myanmar and see the traditional way of life of the Pa-O people.
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