Description

Highlights

• • Get a rare insight into the daily struggles and pleasures of life on the lake.
  • Witness the traditional techniques and skills used by Intha farmers and artisans.
  • Listen to the stories of an Intha family while enjoying a homecooked lunch.

Portraits of Inle

After breakfast board a boat and cruise to Kyay Sar Kone village on the western bank of Inle Lake. Meet with artisan boat builder U Than Hla. His building techniques have been passed down through the generations and U Than Hla is now teaching his son these traditional skills.

In the same village, meet Ma Shwe Myint Mhe, the owner of a cheroot workshop. Watch the young girls skillfully rolling the cigars at a dizzying pace while Ma Shwe Myint Mhe shares her experiences as a female entrepreneur. Her family business provides an important means of livelihood for the villagers.

Carry on to Tha Pyay Pin village to meet U Aung Mya Win, a local farmer who grows his crops on the lake’s floating gardens. He will share his knowledge about the unique eco-system and agricultural techniques of Inle Lake.

From here, visit Pauk Par village and spend some time with an Intha family who will generously open their home for you. Sit and chat with them while enjoying a home-cooked Intha lunch.

Next, meet U Htun Shwe, an expert in constructing religious shrines, thrones and glass mosaics; along with his wife Daw Myint Aye. His outstanding skills earned him the privilege of designing the royal barge shaped like a Karaweik (mythical bird), the centre piece of the annual Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda festival.

Return to your hotel by boat.