Up in the highlands of Shan state is Inle Lake, one of the most scenic bodies of water in Myanmar. Members of AsiaExplorers and I were fortunate to explore it on a clear November day. The most unique aspect of this lake is its fishermen. They are called leg-rowing fishermen, for they use their legs to row their boats, freeing their hands for other chaos on board.
Like a knife over a mirror, our boat slices through the water of Inle.
(left) We were Inle Lake in three boats. As we negotiated its canals, our boats were accompanied by flocks of gulls. We threw fish into the air and they deftly caught them.
(right) After a brief moment crossing the lake, we came upon a fisherman on his boat. Just look at the size of his fish cage.
(above row) Now isn't this the most precarious way to balance yourself? It's a wonder he didn't make a splash!
(left) Just look how blue the sky was! Some of the AsiaExplorers members opened their umbrellas against the scorching sun. It was pretty cold just a short while ago, as soon as the sun came up, it practically fried us!
(below) And this is me - sorry, I can't face the sun either.
And here, we see a group of men harvesting weeds from the lakebed as fodder for the livestock.
Life along the banks of Inle Lake.
Inle Lake, as you can see, is a gorgeous travel destination. Due to its location off the usual tourist trail, visitors are only now trickling in, mostly through packaged tours among well-healed Europeans.
(right) These kids sure learn to row from young. They are navigating through patches of floating gardens which produce a variety of vegetables.
Goodbye Mr Fisherman!
Sights at Inle Lake
Inle Lake is a picturesque lake in central Myanmar. There are many worthwhile sights to visit around it. Click enter to view them.
Exploring the places of interest in Myanmar
Let AsiaExplorers take you to the many wonderful sights in Myanmar. The sights are grouped according to cities, so that you can use this guide when you explore them in person. Click enter to view.
