Things to Do
Taking a boat ride is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Inle Lake.
During this lovely February, however, how could you resist exploring a peaceful and secluded pagoda complex, or relaxing at a wonderful hot spring? And you’ll always be warmly welcome to celebrate Union Day with the local people.
Kakku Pagodas
You may have seen lots of pagodas in other cities, but you still will be impressed by the Kakku pagoda complex. Unlike other more popular pagodas, Kakku pagodas are a bit off the beaten track, giving them a special serenity and tranquility.
There are only a few tourists around, along with some devout Buddhists. You can wander around at your leisure, for as long as you like.
On your way there, you can do some countryside sightseeing. You will pass through a farmland field, fresh and green; a few little villages, in which locals live a simple and self-sufficient life; and a local market, which offers you the chance to observe how farmers trade cattle.
Once you arrive, you’ll see huge banyan trees lining up along the walkway to the pagodas. You’ll feel like you are in a historical forest, revealing things to people about times past.
According to legend, pagodas have been built there since the 12th century. For decades, 2,478 pagodas have been located there. Though some were ruined during the earthquake of 2016, there have been many other vicissitudes over the centuries.
There are bells on top of the stupas. When the wind blows, the chimes of the bells resonate all over the complex. Just listening to this marvelous sound and wandering round this ancient and mysterious place, will surely create the memory of a lifetime.
The beautiful landscape of age-old pagodas, huge trees and blue skies makes this a perfect spot for photography.
A guide will keep you company throughout the trip. He/she is very well informed and will help you to learn more about local history and culture.
There is a nice restaurant nearby, offering a good variety of food, and a great view over the surrounding area. There is also a small market, where villagers sell and purchase daily supplies, ranging from garlic to vegetables and honey.
Entrance fee: $3, plus $5 for a guide
Recommended length of visit: 3 hours
Beware: You are not allowed to wear shorts, tank tops, shoes, etc. Please beware that the road is a bit bumpy. And get there early so you’ll have enough time to explore the complex.
Enjoy a Hot Spring Bath
Do you want to relax after a full day’s boat ride? Do you want to have a special experience, different from visiting pagodas and local markets?
In February, you’d have a great chance to relax in a hot spring, located in the suburban district of Inle Lake.
Biking your way up there is recommended. You can enjoy the views along the way, as well as the scenery of surrounding villages.
There are three pools in the spa, and private pools are accessible as well. It is a perfect place for you to escape the town..
Entrance fee: $8
Celebrate Myanmar’s Union Day
Myanmar’s Union Day falls on the 12th February. More than 7,000 people from all round the country participate in a parade of different ethnic nationalities.
The national flag is carried from town to town, until it arrives in the capital city. Wherever it stops, a celebration is held, and traditional ethnic dances are performed, along with other entertainment.
Burmese people are delighted when foreigners join in their celebrations.
