The best things to do in Inle Lake
Inle Lake is a beautiful and tranquil destination in Myanmar, known for its floating gardens, traditional villages, and stilt houses. Visitors can experience the unique way of life of the Intha people, who have lived on and around the lake for centuries. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including over 200 species of migratory birds. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do in Inle Lake.
Explore the Floating Gardens
One of the most iconic sights in Inle Lake is the floating gardens. These gardens are made from a combination of soil and water hyacinths, and are anchored to the bottom of the lake. They are used to grow a variety of crops, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and flowers. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the floating gardens and learn about the unique method of cultivation used by the Intha people.
Visit the Local Villages
Another great way to experience the culture of Inle Lake is to visit the local villages. Many of these villages are located on stilts and can only be accessed by boat. Visitors can explore the traditional houses and learn about the daily life of the Intha people. Some villages also have workshops where you can see traditional crafts being made, such as weaving and silversmithing.
See the Phaung Daw U Pagoda
The Phaung Daw U Pagoda is the most important religious site in Inle Lake. This pagoda is home to five small statues of the Buddha, which are covered in gold leaf. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the pagoda and learn about the history and significance of this site.
Experience the Traditional Leg-Rowers
The Intha people are known for their unique method of rowing boats using their legs. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the leg-rowers in action and learn about this traditional technique. Some tour operators also offer the opportunity to try leg-rowing yourself.
Take a Sunset Boat Tour
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Inle Lake is to take a sunset boat tour. During this tour, you will see the stunning colors of the sky as the sun sets over the lake. The tour also offers the opportunity to see the local fishermen at work and learn about their traditional methods of fishing.
Visit the Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery
The Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery is a beautiful and historic monastery located on the western shore of Inle Lake. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the monastery and learn about the history and significance of this site. The monastery is also home to a collection of ancient Buddha images, some dating back to the 18th century.
Visit the Indein Pagoda Complex
The Indein Pagoda Complex is a historic pagoda complex located on the western shore of Inle Lake. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the complex and learn about the history and significance of this site. The complex is home to over 1,000 stupas and pagodas, many of which date back to the 17th century.
See the Jumping Cat Monastery
The Jumping Cat Monastery is a unique and historic monastery located on the eastern shore of Inle Lake. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the monastery and learn about the history and significance of thissite. The monastery is known for its trained cats that perform jumping tricks, which is a unique and interesting sight to see. The monastery also has a collection of ancient Buddha images and is a great place to learn about the Buddhism culture in Myanmar.
Take a Cooking Class
If you’re interested in learning about the local cuisine, you can take a cooking class in Inle Lake. These classes are typically held in local homes or restaurants and will give you an opportunity to learn about the ingredients and techniques used in traditional Intha cooking. You will also have the opportunity to taste your creations and take the recipe home with you.
Shop for Local Handicrafts
Inle Lake is known for its traditional crafts, such as weaving, silversmithing, and woodcarving. Visitors can shop for these handicrafts in the local markets and take home a piece of Inle Lake culture as a souvenir. Be sure to negotiate on the prices, as haggling is expected in local markets.
In conclusion, Inle Lake is a destination that offers a unique and tranquil experience for visitors. From exploring the floating gardens and visiting local villages, to seeing the Phaung Daw U Pagoda and experiencing the traditional leg-rowers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including over 200 species of migratory birds, making it a great destination for bird watchers. With so many things to do and see in Inle Lake, it’s a destination that should not be missed.
