Inle Lake
A remarkable water world on the Myanmar plateau, where leg-rowing fishermen are one of Asia's most iconic cultural images.
Overview
Inle Lake lies at 880 metres and is the second largest lake in Myanmar, home to Intha fishermen famous for rowing with one leg. The lake has distinctive floating gardens where tomatoes and beans are grown on floating islands, along with waterborne villages, temples and traditional craft workshops. Boating through the lotus beds and the floating market is the core experience, and photographers particularly love the silhouettes of fishermen at work at sunrise.
History
The Intha people are believed to have migrated to the lake from the south in the 14th century, bringing with them the technique of rowing with one leg while the hands are free to manage fishing nets. The lake and its communities have since developed a distinctive way of life built on floating agriculture and the water itself, and the annual Phaung Daw Oo pagoda festival draws pilgrims from across the country.
Highlights
- •Leg-rowing fishermen
- •Visiting the floating gardens
- •Village markets on the water
Practical tips
- •The best light is early morning
- •A boat tour is the main way to see the lake
Practical information
- Best time
- November to February
- Tickets
- About USD 10 lake entry fee
- Opening hours
- Open all day
- Local food
- Shan noodles, tea leaf salad and tofu noodles
- Getting around
- Reached by road from Mandalay or Taunggyi; the mountain roads are best driven in daylight
- Visa
- A visa or e-visa is required. Check border area and safety advisories before travelling.
Traveller reviews
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