Inle Lake is a shallow fresh water lake located in the Shan Hills, southeast of Mandalay.  It is Myanmar’s second largest lake and home to several interesting places, people and practices.  The calm waters, mist-covered mountains and green floating gardens capture the essence of Myanmar’s natural beauty in one place.

There are many settlements around the lake, the most prominent being the Intha.  They live in stilted bamboo and wooden houses perched above the lake and in perfect harmony with its surroundings.  Mountains form the perfect backdrop as the distinction between heaven and reality is blurred.  The people here are mainly fishermen and subsistence farmers growing their fruit and vegetables on floating farms and gardens.  In order to do this, the Intha gather weeds from the bottom of the lake and bring them back to the desired spot and make them into floating beds which are then anchored by bamboo poles.  These gardens rise and fall with changes in the water level making them resistant to flooding.

Inle Lake is also home to several cottage industries and none as prominent as the area’s splendid silk and cotton weaving.  Inle’s weavers are renowned for their beauty and intricate designs of their handicrafts which consist of its own unique and recognizable style.

Inle Lake is also home to several monasteries.  The most prominent one is Nga Phe Kyaung.  It is oblong in shape, one story high and is raised on eight-foot pillars.  This monastery is famous for its jumping cats.  Monks on break in Nga Phe Kyaungh (also called Jumping Cats Monastery) train the cats to jump through hoops.  One may even find the monks discussing matters such as philosophy and enlightenment while training the cats at the same time!

If there is one aspect of Inle Lake that distinguishes itself from any other place, it would have to be the fishermen and their unique skill.  They are best known for their distinctive boat rowing technique in which they stand on the boat and row with one leg.  One reason could be because the lake is covered by reeds and other floating plants, making it difficult to see when sitting on the boat.  Standing provides the fisherman with a much better view beyond these plants.

There are other activities and sites to see in the area as well.  The lake has some hot springs on its northwestern shore, which can result in a relaxing afternoon resting spot.  The area surrounding the lake makes for memorable adventures, with great hiking trails and biking paths.  You may also come across animal species found nowhere else in the world, as Inle Lake is home to many endemic animals including over twenty snail and six fish species.

You can discover the beauty of Inle Lake along with the rest of Myanmar with Exotissimo’s Essential Myanmar tour.  Unveil the mysteries of Myanmar as you explore the country’s glittering temples and pagodas as well as the country’s peaceful countryside.  You can also lend a helping hand to the residents of Inle Lake by joining our one day House Building on Inle Lake Day Trip tour.  Help build a house for a family and spend time with children at a local school in this one day trip that is sure to make a difference for many in the area.  You can also see our recommended Myanmar tours page for other memorable trips into this mysterious yet wonderful country.