Indein Village
Taunggyi, Myanmar
While Myanmar is one of the few places in Southeast Asia that still feels untouched by mass tourism, the Indein Village on the west banks of Inle Lake takes this seclusion to the next level. This tiny settlement is famous for hundreds of ancient pagodas, some of which have been painstakingly renovated and now glimmer gold, while others have been reclaimed by nature, which only adds to their appeal.
The basics
Indein Village is home to two significant historical sites—the Nyaung Ohak pagodas, decorated with mythological depictions and imagery of the Buddha, and the Shwe Inn Thein pagodas, thought to date back to the 3rd century. Some tours of Inle Lake include visiting Indein Village by boat, to browse markets selling souvenirs, sample traditional food, and meet with locals. Private, custom tours of Inle Lake let you tailor your itinerary and add Indein Village to your schedule.
Things to know before you go
Bring small denominations of cash to buy food and souvenirs at the Indein Village market, as vendors aren’t likely to accept cards.
There are entrance fees for both of the pagoda sites.
Be aware that some travelers with limited mobility might struggle to get on and off the boat.
In this rural part of Myanmar, locals aren’t likely to speak English, so it’s worth visiting with a guide who can help you navigate the language barrier.
There are some homestay accommodation options in the village if you’d like to stay overnight.
How to get there
The only way to reach Indein Village is by boat as it's on the banks of a tributary from Inle Lake. Tours include travel by boat, or you can head to one of the piers to hire a water taxi for the day. Overnight coaches are available to Inle Lake from major cities, such as Yangon and Mandalay.
When to get there
It's recommended to visit Inle Lake outside of the rainy season, which runs from June to September. However, Indein Village can become inaccessible via the waterways if the water levels are too low, so plan a trip early in the dry season (October to November).
What to eat in Myanmar
Myanmar boasts delicious local food, such as lahpet thoke, a cold salad featuring fermented green tea leaves and nuts; mohinga, noodles and fritters covered in a fish-based broth; and Burmese biryani, a unique take on the classic Indian rice dish.
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