After spending the morning photographing Nampan market we checked out of our over-the-lake accommodations and headed for Nyaungshwe, first stopping to see Padong Long Neck women and then to make a quick visit to a cherrot factory where traditional hand-made Burmese cigars are produced. In the afternoon we checked into our hotel in Nyaungshwe and the following day we woke early to photograph monks collecting their daily offerings around town.
Nyaungshwe is the main town having direct access to Inle Lake via a 4-mile long canal and serves as a gateway for folks visiting the lake. The town dates back to almost 12th century when the Sao Bwas (Shan Chieftains) ruled and controlled the entire rice-growing Nyaungshwe plains. Nyaungshwe is an ideal place for a few days of street photography or to begin a bicycle tour to villages on the on the rim of the lake. The town most revered Ratanar Maung Aung temple has unique glittering pinnacles, and has beautiful relief-molding works at the main entrance, as well as a good collection of religious antiques. The southern part of the town, along the canal, has some picturesque monasteries and keeps bustling every day. There’s also a local “watering hole” serving Myanmar draft beer where locals and tourist alike, hang-out in the evening. Here are 20 images from Inle lake and Nyaungshwe, with more to come…enjoy.
Local restaurant at Nampan Market
