Inle Lake

Written by Lorraine Aust, Min Thein
12/08/2025
Serene view of floating villages and clear skies at Inle Lake in Myanmar.
Amy Chandra, Pexels

Inle Lake, nestled in Myanmar's Shan State, offers a tranquil escape, showcasing a unique way of life centered on its waters. Visitors experience culturally rich floating villages, observe traditional leg-rowing fishermen, and explore lush floating gardens.

While Inle Lake itself is more about serene exploration, the gateway town of Nyaungshwe provides opportunities to socialise. Here, one can find various accommodations and experience local night markets with food stalls and bars. Weekly rotating markets on the lake also serve as vibrant local gathering spots, increasingly attracting tourists.

Top 5 Things to do in Inle Lake

Inle Lake offers diverse experiences, primarily focused on exploring its unique aquatic lifestyle, enjoying cultural encounters, and engaging in gentle outdoor pursuits.

1. Full-Day Inle Lake Boat Trip

Embark on a traditional long-tail boat to explore the heart of Inle Lake. Witness the iconic Intha leg-rowing fishermen and observe their unique technique. Glide past floating gardens where local farmers cultivate produce. Visit stilt-house villages, including Ywama, and explore cultural sites such as Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, home to revered Buddha images. An extension to Indein Village is highly recommended to see its ancient pagoda complex with thousands of stupas, some overgrown, offering a glimpse into historical and religious heritage. The trip often includes stops at traditional craft workshops, such as lotus weaving, silversmiths, and cheroot (Burmese cigar) making, showcasing local ingenuity. Booking a sunrise trip can enhance the experience with fewer boats and beautiful light.

Cost: An Inle Lake Zone Fee of approximately 13,500 Kyat (around $10 USD) is required upon entry to the area. A full-day private boat tour typically costs between 18,000 to 40,000 Kyat per boat (approximately $9-$19 USD), not per person, and can be shared among 6-8 people. Prices vary based on the booking method (hotel vs. local vendor) and itinerary.

Transport: Boat trips depart from Nyaungshwe, the main gateway town, which is accessible by walking from most accommodations.

2. Cycling around Nyaungshwe and Local Villages

Rent a bicycle to explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Nyaungshwe, the town bordering Inle Lake. This offers a different perspective of local life away from the water. Cycle along flat roads, through rice fields, and past small villages. It is an easy ride with scenic views, providing a sense of freedom and local interaction.

Cost: Bicycle rental costs are generally affordable, but specific recent prices from independent renters are not consistently listed. Expect to pay a few dollars for a day rental from local shops in Nyaungshwe.

Transport: Bicycles can be rented directly in Nyaungshwe, making it a self-serve activity from the town center.

3. Wine Tasting at Red Mountain Estate Vineyards

Visit the Red Mountain Estate Vineyards, nestled on the slopes overlooking Inle Lake. This vineyard offers an opportunity to sample locally produced wines, both red and white. The primary draw is the stunning panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially captivating during sunset. It provides a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy the landscape.

Cost: A tasting flight of four wines typically costs around 5,000 Kyat (approximately $3.70 USD). Purchasing full glasses or bottles will be additional.

Transport: Located a few kilometers from Nyaungshwe, the vineyard is reachable by bicycle (about 30 minutes) or by tuk-tuk/taxi for approximately 12,000 Kyat ($8 USD) for a round trip.

4. Participate in a Traditional Cooking Class

Engage in a hands-on cooking class to learn about Shan and Inthar cuisine, which emphasizes fresh local ingredients, especially tomatoes from the floating gardens. Classes often begin with a visit to a local market to select fresh produce. Participants learn traditional cooking techniques and prepare several Burmese dishes, enjoying the meal they have cooked afterward. This experience offers deep cultural immersion and insight into daily life.

Cost: Cooking classes typically cost between 15,000 to 20,000 Kyat (approximately $11-$15 USD) per person, usually including the market visit and the meal.

Transport: Many cooking classes are located in Nyaungshwe, accessible by walking or a short boat ride if staying on the lake. Some include hotel pickup.

5. Explore the Five-Day Rotating Market

Experience the vibrant local culture at the Five-Day Market, which rotates among different villages around Inle Lake. This bustling market is a central hub for various ethnic minorities to trade goods, including fresh produce from floating gardens, handicrafts, and other local products. It offers a lively atmosphere and an authentic glimpse into the region's daily commerce and social interactions.

Cost: Access to the market is free, but visitors will incur costs for any purchases.

Transport: The market's location changes daily, so it is typically visited as part of a boat tour, or it can be accessed by walking/cycling if it happens to be in Nyaungshwe on the day of visit.

Check out our other pages on Inle Lake

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Discover destinations in Myanmar

Central Myanmar
Shan State & Eastern Highlands
Southern & Coastal Myanmar