The people of Inle Lake are of the Intha tribe. Their villages are built on stilts over the water and their floating gardens are unique features that have made this area a tourist destination. Fishing and gardening are all done from small, traditional, flat-bottomed, teak boats whereas most means of transportation are larger boats with motors. The fishermen are known for practicing a distinctive rowing style which involves standing at the stern on one leg (have no idea how they do it!!) and wrapping the other leg around the oar. The reason is the lake is covered by reeds and floating plants making it very difficult to see above them while sitting. Standing provides the fishermen with a view beyond the reeds. But note, the leg rowing style is only practiced by the men, women row by using the oar with their hands, sitting cross legged at the stern. It’s all so fascinating to watch.
the Intha people also make their living making various clothing items
from the threads of the freshly plucked lotus flowers.
Paper making is another craft of the Intha people. Threads from tree bark are soaked in water and then stretched, adding flowers and letting the sun finish the process. The paper is used to make the colorful umbrellas and of course a purchase was needed for future collage work!
The cold nights and sunny days make for good wine making especially when combined with the expertise of a French winemaker.
A visit to Red Mountain Estate is a real treat!
Farming is done right on the water. Weeds are collected, then tethered to the bottom of the lake with bamboo poles with piled on silt. And voilà - no watering! Interesting that this hydroponics type system was developed by the Intha people centuries before modern science learned of its values. Of course any type of farming is always an interest to me since I grew up on a fruit and vegetable farm.
the detail was simply amazing!
Can you imagine sitting like that all day?
It’s concerning what the next several years of tourism will bring, so believe the articles when you read now is the time to visit!
My absolute favorite area of Myanmar!