Overview
Indawgyi Lake could become a second Inle Lake if security in the region improves—it's a large freshwater lake with rare migratory birds in winter and the beautiful island monastery Shwe Myitzu. The town of Lon Ton receives only about 500 visitors per year as of 2019, so you'll find genuinely off-the-beaten-path travel here, though tourist services are low quality and infrastructure is limited.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
Power outages common and phone service poor. Buy a head torch (1,000 kyat). WiFi is not mentioned at any accommodation.
Culture
Tourism is in its infancy; locals have mixed reactions to foreigners outside tourist areas. Homestays are banned; only stay in permitted hotels in Lon Ton Village.
Money
Local currency is Myanmar kyat. Some prices quoted in USD (Indawgyi Motel at US$10/night), but most costs are in kyat. Cash is essential; no mention of ATM availability.
Safety
Landmines north of the lake and in hills; snake bites (kraits, Russell vipers) in wetlands; curfew after 18:00; armed groups and illegal mining in western and northern mountains.
Transport
Take a train from Mandalay or Katha to Hopin Station, then a shared van (5,000 kyat) to Lon Ton. Trains are overcrowded and have no online timetable.
Weather
Winter brings rare migratory birds to the lake. Sun is described as "punishing" on the water—bring a hat and sunglasses for kayaking.