Go to content

Rickshaw Travel
Myanmar
Myanmar boat at sunset

Village Life on Inle Lake

Bite-sized trip
  • Itinerary:
    Inle Lake
  • Duration:
    3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
  • Price:
    from £225 per person (excluding flights)
Inle Lake, in the southern Shan State, is one of the most picturesque and serene places in Myanmar. A vast freshwater lake, its home to traditional Intha villages and filled with stilted bamboo houses, floating gardens and colourful markets. Here you’ll also catch a glimpse of the famous fishermen whose unique one-leg rowing style is an iconic sight. Although a popular tourist destination by Myanmar standards our trip will take you off the usual trail to see a more authentic side to this impressive lake.
Myanmar local fishing boat

Day 1 – Arrival in Nyaungshwe

On arrival, you’ll be transferred to the tranquil Inle Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Myanmar. Stretching an impressive 13 miles long, its riverbanks are dotted with enchanting Burmese villages with stilted wooden houses overlooking the water. It’s a relaxed way of life that you can’t help but adapt to when visiting. You’ll stay in a cosy guesthouse in the nearby town of Nyaungshwe where you can relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 2 – Excursion on Inle Lake

After a tasty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the dock for your boat excursion. Travelling by motorboat allows you to discover the natural beauty of the lake, visit the floating gardens, a local cheroot factory, where Burmese cigars are made, and marvel at the famous leg rowers in action. A traditional lunch of Shan noodles at a local family’s house will follow, giving you an insight into local people and their lives on the lake. Afterwards, you’ll continue by boat to see the slower pace of life in the villages dotted along the edge of the water.

Day 3 – Departure

After a good night’s rest, you can have a final look around the laid-back town and pick up some snacks for your journey before continuing your adventure through Myanmar.

Accommodation

Myanmar accommodation interior
Myanmar accommodation exterior
Myanmar accommodation bedroom

For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options

1Option

Upgrade to our In Style accommodation

  • Price:
    From £285 per person (excluding flights)
  • Included:
    In Style accommodation, excursions, transport and meals as described above

For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In-Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below.

2Option

A Shan afternoon & wine tasting

  • Price:
    From £95 per person
  • Included:
    Explore Shan and its rich history and end the day with a delicious wine tasting.

Inle’s shoreline is just as intriguing as the lake itself and with this great day out, you’ll sample the rich history and culture of the Shan people first hand.  Visit the former palace of the last Shan prince, see traditional handicrafts on display in local markets and pass floating gardens as you cruise the small canals with your knowledgeable guide. After a busy day, finish off your afternoon by sampling some of the excellent wines at the Red Mountain winery – cheers!

3Option

Take a peek at the Pindaya Caves

  • Price:
    From £88 per person
  • Included:
    Visit Pindaya Caves, an impressive Buddhist pilgrimage site located on a limestone ridge

For a fascinating 1/2 day out, why not check out the magnificent Pindaya Caves – a Buddhist pilgrimage site located on a limestone ridge close to Nyaung Shwe and famous for its impressive display of Buddhist iconography and art dating back to the 16th century. No other place in Myanmar displays such a range of unique images, ornamental thrones and décor. Many legends surround the caves including a hidden path to Bagan and tales of trapped princesses awaiting rescue by their prince! Your English speaking guide and return transfers are included and entrance fees ($3) are to be paid locally.

This bite-sized trip combines well with