Things To Do
in Ingabu
Ingabu is a sleepy riverside town in eastern Myanmar surrounded by bamboo groves and terraced hills. It blends traditional markets with small temples and friendly locals who welcome travelers. The town acts as a gateway to nearby hill tribes and rural landscapes, offering an authentic glimpse of everyday life beyond the tourist trail.
Expect warm hospitality aromatic street food and quiet sunsets along the river.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a lakeside café, savoring fresh tea and local delicacies. Afterward, embark on a boat tour through the serene waters of Inle Lake, marveling at the unique floating gardens cultivated by local fishermen. As the morning sun rises, watch the fishermen practicing their traditional leg-rowing technique, a spectacle that showcases their remarkable skill.
In the afternoon, visit a local market where you can engage with the friendly vendors and discover handmade crafts unique to the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling the famous Inle Lake fish curry while soaking in the views of the tranquil waters. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, home to five revered Buddha images covered in gold leaf.
As the sun begins to set, take a peaceful boat ride back to your accommodation, allowing the vibrant colors of dusk to envelop you. Upon your return, enjoy a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where the catch of the day is prepared just for you. End your evening with a stroll along the lakeshore, experiencing the calming sounds of nature as the stars twinkle above.
Travel to the picturesque hill station of Kalaw, where the cool mountain air greets you with refreshing clarity. Begin your day with a hike through the lush pine forests surrounding Kalaw, inhaling the invigorating scents of nature. Stop at a local tea shop to sip on traditional Burmese tea and sample some delicious snacks while taking in the stunning views.
After lunch, visit the Kalaw Market, bustling with activity and showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Here, you can purchase local handicrafts, fresh produce, and perhaps a beautiful shawl or two. Spend your afternoon exploring the local monasteries and learning about the region's spiritual heritage, including the impressive Shwe U Min Pagoda.
As the day winds down, enjoy a traditional Shan dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste flavorful dishes like Shan noodles and fresh salads. After dinner, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the hills, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a quaint café, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🫖Tea or coffee | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $8-25 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental per day | $3-6 |
| 🧺Market snacks or fruit | $0.5-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and authentic cultural experiences
- Relaxed pace and beautiful river scenery
- Accessible day trips to hills and villages
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Infrastructure can be basic outside main towns
- Language barrier for non Burmese speakers
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyezu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "Eng-lish pyae par tal?" - Do you speak English?
- "Htaung shay? Htaung yout?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ingabu
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the water with boats and fishermen in frame.
Colorful stalls textures and daily life with warm late day light.
Hilltop temples offering panoramic views of the town and river.
Food in Ingabu
Ingabu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic fish noodle soup best enjoyed at dawn from street stalls.
Must-Try!
Tea leaf salad with chili sesame peanuts and crunchy toppings.
Rice noodles with a fragrant broth herbs and a mild meat option common in Shan influenced towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market with fresh fish river produce and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes and socks before entering sacred spaces.
Avoid touching or pointing feet toward monks; speak softly in temples and monasteries.
If offered tea or snacks accept graciously as a sign of hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Ingabu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in tourist facing services; 5 to 10 percent if service charge is not included.
Cash in Kyat is widely used; major cards are accepted only in some hotels and larger shops; keep cash for markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often above 90F; carry water wear a hat and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains and high humidity; some roads can flood or wash out; bring rain gear and plan flexible itineraries.
Pleasant days and cool dry nights ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Ingabu at Night
Hiking in Ingabu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate 3-5 hour hike offering views of the valley and villages.
Easy loop through fields and small settlements perfect for beginners.
Two to four hour hike along forest edges with birdlife and quiet streams.
Airports
How to reach Ingabu by plane.
Gateway to the Inle Lake region located to the north with road connections to eastern Myanmar including Ingabu.
Major international hub farther away but provides extensive flight connections and onward travel by road.
Largest airport in the country offering international connections; long overland transfer to Ingabu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with Buddhist traditions.
Nearby hill regions host Shan residents with distinct language and dress.
Smaller communities contributing to the local culture and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played by local youths and communities.
Traditional Burmese bare knuckle boxing sometimes held as events or observed.
Played in school and community centers in larger towns nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ingabu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be made vegetarian by requesting vegetables tofu or mushrooms and avoiding fish sauce.