Introduction
Inle Lake is Burma's second largest lake. It's bordered by more than 200 villages, which are home to a number of ethnic minority tribes, notably the Intha people who originated from the east of the country.
Many have built their houses on the lake itself, raised on stilts above its shallow, tranquil waters. Life revolves around various cottage industries, from silk weaving to silversmithing; naturally fishing plays a central role too. Fishermen employ a unique rowing style, using their legs to propel them as they stand precariously at the stern of their long narrow boats.
The best way to explore is by boat, though there are also extensive trails that cut across the surrounding hills and wind round the water's edge.
The former British hill Station of Kalaw is also nearby and well worth visiting if you've time to linger longer. It boasts an excellent morning market and is the starting point for some beautiful mountain walks as well as multi-day treks through minority hill tribe villages, sleeping in monasteries hidden amidst the hilltops.
