Things to do in Inle Lake
Discover the best attractions and experiences Inle Lake has to offer
Historic Monuments
Inle Lake and its surroundings cradle a number of ancient temples and sacred sites that reflect Shan and Burmese heritage.
Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
The holiest shrine on Inle Lake, home to centuries-old Buddha images carried in yearly processions.
Indein Pagoda Complex
A hillside field of crumbling stupas offering atmospheric ruins and sweeping lake views.
Nga Hpe Kyaung (Jumping Cat Monastery)
A wooden monastery along the lake famed for trained cats that perform tricks.
Museums
Explore local culture and history through small, curated spaces around Nyaung Shwe and the lake.
Inle Heritage Museum
A cultural museum within the Inle Heritage Foundation highlighting Intha life, crafts, and regional history.
Taunggyi Ethnographic Museum
Museum presenting the diverse cultures of the Shan State; a short excursion from Inle Lake.
Religious Monuments
A concentration of sacred sites and monasteries enriches the spiritual tapestry of the lake region.
Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
A 19th-century wooden monastery near Nyaung Shwe, famed for its carved interiors and tranquil ambiance.
Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
One of Myanmar’s most revered pagodas on the lake, central to local pilgrimage.
Nga Hpe Kyaung (Jumping Cat Monastery)
A revered monastery by the water known for its resident cats and meditative atmosphere.
National & Theme Parks
The Inle Lake area is more about lakeside villages and culture than formal parks, so this category has limited options.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Inle Lake. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Discover the main towns and villages that form the backbone of Inle Lake life.
Nyaung Shwe
The gateway town to Inle Lake, filled with markets, guesthouses, and riverside eateries.
Ywama (Floating Village)
A vibrant lake village built on stilts, famous for its canals and boat life.
Khaung Daing
A nearby village known for its hot springs and laid-back lakeside atmosphere.
Indein Village
A traditional village at the lake’s southern end with nearby pagoda ruins and hillside paths.
Free Things to Do
Lots of enjoyable activities around Inle Lake come at no cost beyond your transportation or time.
Walk the Nyaung Shwe waterfront
Stroll along the shore to watch boats and fishermen at work.
Explore Indein village and pagoda ruins
Hike the hillside path to discover ancient stupas and village life.
Wander the Nyaung Shwe market area
Browse stalls and observe daily life in a bustling market setting.
Observe Intha leg-rowing from the shore
Watch the unique style of lake fishing from nearby vantage points.
Gastronomy
Taste the flavors of the Shan State and Inle Lake’s fresh produce and local specialties.
Shan noodle soup
A comforting noodle dish from the Shan region, often served with a flavorful broth.
Inle freshwater fish curry
A regional curry featuring locally caught river fish.
Lahpet Thoke (tea leaf salad)
A popular Burmese starter made with pickled tea leaves, peanuts, and sesame.
Nightlife
Evenings in the Inle Lake area are typically relaxed, with markets and cozy venues.
Evening market stroll in Nyaung Shwe
Enjoy the cool air and local snacks as stalls come alive.
Sunset boat ride
Cap off the day with a tranquil boat ride as the sun dips over the lake.
Tea houses with local performances
Some guesthouses host informal cultural showcases and music.
Entertainment
Cultural demonstrations and crafts provide engaging glimpses into local life.
Leg-rowing boat demonstrations
Watch the iconic Intha fishermen glide gracefully using their legs.
Lacquerware and weaving demonstrations
See traditional crafts being made by skilled artisans.
Local cultural performances at guesthouses
Occasional small shows that showcase regional music and dance.
Sports
Active ways to experience the lake and surrounding trails.
Traditional leg-rowing on Inle Lake
Try or watch the distinctive leg-powered rowing technique.
Kayaking or canoeing on the lake
Paddle among floating villages and tranquil waters.
Bicycle ride around Nyaung Shwe and villages
Pedal through scenic rural roads and lakefront communities.
Hike to Indein Hill
A gentle ascent to enjoy panoramic lake views and pagoda ruins.
Off the Track
Delve into lesser-known experiences that reveal local life beyond the usual sights.
Handloom and lacquerware workshops
Visit local studios to see crafts from silk to lacquerware in process.
Trek through Indein hillside villages
Explore lesser-visited paths and tiny hamlets with traditional rhythms of life.
Tea shop encounters with locals
Share a pot of tea and stories with residents in village teahouses.