Things to Do
It might not seem appropriate to go for a boat ride during this rainy period. Just as in June, however, you can capture unique mist-shrouded scenery you won’t normally be able to experience during other months.
Otherwise, some indoor activities, such as visiting a museum or an art gallery, observing how locals make silk out of lotus, and watching a traditional puppet show, are highly recommended for July.
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Explore Khit Sunn Yin Lotus House
Instead of spending most your time on a boat, why not pay a visit to a lotus house and observe the traditional way of making silk?
The entire silk-making process is exhibited at the house: from the beginning, when silk is pulled out of stalks, to the end, when hand-woven products are completed. The Intha people create wonderful works of art.
Visit Nyaung Shwe Culture Museum
Shan is a multi-ethnic-group state, where each group has formed its own unique traditions and customs. And Nyaung Shwe Culture Museum, located in a former palace of the Shan State’s ruler, has a collection of hundreds of items, showcasing the diverse cultures of minorities who’ve lived in Shan State for generations.
The collection ranges from traditional dresses and musical instruments to household and farm implements, paintings and crafts. You can explore the culture of Shan State through these exhibits.
Entrance fee: 2000 kyats
Watch a Traditional Puppet Show
As a dying traditional folk art, puppetry is currently being phased out by modernity in Myanmar. Mr. Aung, the owner of a small theater, who is also a talented puppeteer, a fourth-generation practitioner in his family, is trying to keep it alive.
Gracious as he is, Aung will make your stay enjoyable. Before the show begins, hot complimentary tea will be served while you are waiting.
The show includes 8 to 10 dances and lasts for around 30 minutes. You will hear an English narration before each performance. In this way, you can enjoy not only the entertainment itself, but also some authentic culture behind it.
The puppets come to life through the puppeteers’ skill. And even if there are only a few in the audience, you don’t need to worry about the quality of the show. Mr. Aung, who is a responsible man, will do his very best to put on the best show possible.
Many handmade puppets hang around the hall. You can just take your time there, to look around. The owner won’t hassle you by trying to sell anything.
Entrance fee: 5000 kyats
