Inle Lake Boat Tour Guide

Inle Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Shan State of Myanmar (Burma). It is known for its unique beauty and the traditional way of life of the Intha people who live in the surrounding villages. One of the best ways to experience the lake and its culture is by taking a boat tour.

Getting to Inle Lake

The nearest airport to Inle Lake is Heho Airport, which is about 35 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Nyaungshwe, the main town near the lake. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Yangon or Mandalay to Nyaungshwe.

Taking a Boat Tour

There are many tour operators in Nyaungshwe that offer boat tours of Inle Lake. You can choose from a half-day tour or a full-day tour, depending on your preference. The boats used for the tours are traditional long-tail boats, which are powered by a single-cylinder diesel engine.

The boat tour will take you to various parts of the lake, including the floating gardens, the stilt villages, and the monasteries. You will also see the famous Intha fishermen, who use a unique one-legged rowing technique to navigate the shallow waters of the lake.

What to See

During the boat tour, you will see many interesting sights, including:

• The floating gardens, where the Intha people grow vegetables and flowers on floating beds of water hyacinths and other aquatic plants.
• The stilt villages, where the Intha people live in houses built on stilts above the water. You will see the locals going about their daily lives, such as fishing, weaving, and making silverware.
• The monasteries, which are important centers of Buddhism in the region. You will see the monks going about their daily routines, such as chanting, meditating, and studying.

Tips for the Boat Tour

Here are some tips to make the most of your boat tour:

• Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and the unique culture of the Intha people.
• Bring some cash to buy souvenirs from the local vendors, such as hand-woven textiles and silverware.
• Respect the local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a monastery.

Conclusion

A boat tour of Inle Lake is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Myanmar. It offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Intha people and the natural beauty of the lake. So, book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!