Visiting the Tai Yai House in Myanmar SHAN house inle lake

Visiting the Tai Yai House in Myanmar: A profound experience at SHAN House by Inle Lake

I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to travel to Myanmar again. This time, I did not go to big cities or well-known tourist attractions but chose to experience the lifestyle and culture of the Tai Yai or Shan people whoInle Lakewhich is located in Shan State in eastern Myanmar. It is an area full of tranquility and beautiful nature, along with the old houses of the Tai Yai people calledShan housewhich is a charm I have never encountered anywhere else.

Traveling here is not easy. I had to fly into Yangon first, then take a flight to a small town near Inle Lake. After that, I took a boat to various villages around the lake, which is the main mode of transportation for locals. Since Inle Lake is about 22 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, traveling by boat is the lifeline of the people here.

Atmosphere and lifestyle of the Tai Yai people

My accommodation was a traditional Tai Yai wooden house located by the water. Every morning, I woke up to the sound of boats paddling past the house and a light mist floating over the water surface. These houses are built from teak wood with high gable roofs and open ceilings for ventilation. Inside, you find antique wooden furniture combined with the simple yet exquisite craftsmanship of the Tai Yai people.

The Tai Yai people here still live traditionally. They make a living through agriculture and fishing, such as growing vegetables on floating gardens and catching fish from the lake. I had the chance to ride a boat with locals early in the morning to see their method of catching fish by hand, a technique passed down through generations.

Tai Yai lakeside cuisine

What impressed me most was the local food prepared by the Tai Yai people to try. Most dishes use fresh ingredients from the lake and surrounding vegetable gardens, such as crispy fried freshwater fish served with Tai Yai chili paste that has just the right spicy kick, fresh boiled vegetables, and freshly steamed jasmine sticky rice every day. There are also various vegetable curries made with local herbs, giving a flavor distinct from the typical Burmese food I have tasted in big cities.

I also visited a small market by the lake. This is a meeting point for villagers from different communities who come to sell vegetables, fruits, handicrafts, and fresh fish. The market is colorful and lively. Although small, it clearly reflects the lifestyle of the Tai Yai people.

Travel and broader context connections

Although located in Shan State, Inle Lake is connected to other states in Myanmar, such as Kachin State to the north, which I have documented in an articleExploring the Origin of the Irrawaddy River, Kachin Statewhich truly shows Myanmar's geographical and ethnic diversity. Traveling in Myanmar's states requires preparation and patience because roads are not as convenient as in big cities. However, what you gain is a profound experience and a close connection with the locals.

There is also interesting information about Myanmar's large freshwater lakes such asIndawgyi Lake in Kachin Statewhich is an important wildlife sanctuary in Myanmar and home to the Red Tai and Shan people as well. The diversity of these ethnic groups makes Myanmar a country with truly fascinating culture and nature.

Advice for travelers wanting to experience Tai Yai life

For those interested in visiting the Tai Yai houses by Inle Lake, it is advisable to prepare travel and accommodation in advance because there are still few luxury hotels or organized tourism systems like in big cities. I, mr.hotsia, recommend staying in homestays or villagers' houses to truly experience the lifestyle.

Travel should mainly be by boat, and you should prepare clothing suitable for the weather and outdoor activities. Don't miss trying the fresh and delicious local food, as well as talking with the locals to learn about their long-standing culture and traditions.

Summary of impressions from mr.hotsia

Visiting the Tai Yai houses in Myanmar and staying inSHAN houseby Inle Lake was an experience that made me feel that “true travel is about experiencing the real life of the people.” Here, there is no hustle and bustle, no bright city lights, only peace, simplicity, and warmth from people who still hold firmly to their roots.

If you enjoy deep travel, not just capturing beautiful photos but wanting to experience a unique way of life, I, mr.hotsia, recommend this place as one of your must-visit lists. Visiting the Tai Yai houses at Inle Lake will enrich your travel experience and help you understand the world from a truly different perspective.

Follow my travel stories and experiences atVisiting the Tai Yai House in Myanmar SHAN house inle lakeAnd if you like this kind of in-depth travel, don't forget to check out other articles I have posted, such asFood in Bagan, Pagan, MyanmarandHorse Carriage Ride in Bagan, Paganwhich will help you see Myanmar from a more diverse and complete perspective.