Last day on Inle Lake
Boat TourPhotographyLake LifeCulture

Last day on Inle Lake

Myanmar flag
Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar
David
Writer
Kro
Photographer
Published on
Sunday, November 19, 2017

After feasting on Inle resort massive breakfast, and cooling off at the crystal clear swimming pool, we jumped in our boat for a last boat ride on the Inle Lake. Our private boat drove us around Inle Lake passing floating gardens where locals mainly grew tomatoes, cucumbers and gourds. The tomatoes of Inle Lake were allegedly the finest in Myanmar.

We came close to fishermen paddling in the distinctive standing position with one foot wrapped around the paddle as they were dropping their fishnets. The fishermen were working together to catch more fishes.

Traditional fishermen on Inle Lake with distinctive leg-rowing technique

We also encountered fake fishermen. What on earth are we talking about? Fishermen dressed up and perched on the end of their boats balancing on one leg with their nets in hand aren't taking any fish anymore. The show is only for tourist and they will make sure to collect their money if you dare to snap a picture of them.

Tourist fishermen posing for photos on Inle Lake

We ventured into the stilt-house villages from where our driver was from. The scenery was stunning. We left the main lake behind and passed through a series of canals flanked by houses, a post office, shops, cafe, schools, and the occasional pagoda.

Tip

Tips for visiting Inle Lake

  • Beware of 'fake fishermen': Some fishermen pose for photos and will demand payment if you take their picture. Real fishermen are working and won't pose for tourists.
  • Private boat tours allow you to explore at your own pace. Expect to pay around 15,000-20,000 kyat for a full day tour.
  • Don't miss the stilt-house villages - they offer a glimpse into authentic lake life away from the main tourist areas.
  • Best time for photography is early morning when the light is soft and fishermen are actively working.

Note:

Pin These Moments

Traditional leg-rowing fishermen on Inle Lake Myanmar

🎣 Iconic Inle Fishermen

Witnessing the distinctive leg-rowing technique of Inle Lake fishermen - a centuries-old tradition unique to this region.

Floating gardens and stilt houses on Inle Lake

🏡 Life on the Water

Exploring stilt-house villages and floating gardens where locals grow the finest tomatoes in Myanmar.

Have you visited Inle Lake? Did you encounter the fake fishermen? What was your favorite part of exploring the lake? Leave us your comments below. We would love to hear from you.