Inle Lake ranks as one of the must-see destin ations
in Myanmar and for good reason – each side is banked by tall hills
creating a stunningly beautiful expanse of water surrounded by a
unique community of 17 villages.
The Intha people that live here are culturally different Inle from
the rest of Shan State and are perhaps most famous for
their extraordinary skill in leg-rowing on skiffs boats
that glide across the water. Visitors to the area can also experience life on the lake by staying
in the numerous hotels and guesthouses perched on stilts out on the
water.
Bargain-hunters can chose from the array of silk weaves and silver
from lakeside workshops available at the markets that move from
village to village. One of the best times to visit is during
September and October when Inle Lake comes alive in a flotilla of
starry lights for the sacred three-week festival Phaung Daw Oo.