Inle Lake

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Inle Lake is a freshwater lake in Nyaungshwe Township, Shan State, Myanmar. It is the second largest lake in the country and sits about 880 meters above sea level. The lake covers roughly 116 square kilometers (about 45 square miles).

In the dry season the water is shallow, around 2 meters deep, with the deepest spots about 3.7 meters. In the rainy season the water can rise by about 1.5 meters. The lake drains to the Nam Pilu (Balu Chaung) on the southern end, and there is a hot spring on the northwest shore.

The water is clear and slightly alkaline. The lake is home to many plants and animals, including more than 35 native fish species (some are unique to the lake), about 45 freshwater snail species, and a small endemic crab. The Inle area is also a home for migratory birds, with tens of thousands of gulls visiting each year in November to January.

People and life around the lake: Most residents are Intha, along with other local ethnic groups. They live in villages around the shore or in houses built on stilts over the water. They fish and grow vegetables and fruit in large floating gardens made from lake plants and anchored with bamboo. Rice farming is also important.

The famous one-legged rowing style comes from the Intha men, who stand at the stern to paddle so they can see above the reeds. Women row sitting and using both hands.

Crafts and markets: The area is known for weaving and silk. The Inle longyi is a traditional garment, and lotus silk is unique to the lake region. There are silversmith villages and silk workshops along the lake. A floating market moves between five sites, with boats selling goods on the water.

Environmental issues: Inle Lake faces pollution, silt from hillside farming, nutrient pollution, and overfishing. An invasive water hyacinth plant also threatens many parts of the lake. Some fish species may be threatened or extinct. Water quality can be a concern for health, but efforts are underway to reduce weed growth and control pollution.

Conservation: In 2015, Inle Lake was named Myanmar’s first Biosphere Reserve. Since 2018 it has been a designated Ramsar wetland site, recognizing its importance and need for protection.

Tourism and accessibility: The lake is a popular tourist destination. Heho Airport is about 35 kilometers away, with flights from Yangon and Mandalay. Distances from major cities are roughly Yangon 660 kilometers and Mandalay 330 kilometers by road. Festivals run from August to October, including the Hpaung Daw U Festival and the Thadingyut Festival of lights, when people come out in their best clothes to celebrate. Traditional boat races are held during these celebrations. Visitors can see local silversmithing and weaving, buy handmade goods, and watch the markets on the water. Hot air balloons offer views over the lake, and there is a winery nearby called Red Mountain Estate.