Shan State

Shan State has been quoted by many famous travellers as the land of picture postcard seetings. Shan State is lost in the mists of time, shrouded in mystic, intrigue and adventure. the infamous Golden Triangle, the Leg Rowers of Inle Lake, the Floating Markets and Gardens, the Long Necked Women, the Shan shoulder bag and the Nation's national dress the "longyi", woven by indigenous looms, are all part of what makes the Shan State a must for the traveller who wishes to see the real Myanmar.

Inle Lake offers an unforgettable pastiche of unique experiences, like watching the famous "leg rowers" who are usually fisherman at work with their artistically-made cone-shaped nets.

Inle Lake has a fabulous backdrop of hills. The calm waters are dotted with "floating" gardens where industrious villagers grow flowers, vegetables and fruit, which they sell in a floating market on the southern banks of Ywama.

The rainy season lasts from mid-May until mid-October. For the next few months, the weather is quite reasonable. In fact, it is actually cool in Mandalay at night and near freezing in Kalaw, near Inle Lake. From mid-February, it gets increasingly hot until the rains arrive once more. The Burmese New Year in April, at the peak of the hot season, means much fun and throwing water at all concerned. November to February are the best months to visit.