This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Nyaung Shwe.
Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar (Burma), in the country's Shan state, is home to the world-famous Inle Lake. Nyaung Shwe is located just north of Inle Lake, and is the area where most of the budget backpacker accommodation can be found. Nyaung Shwe also has the majority of restaurants and tour operators so it is an ideal area to stay while visiting Inle Lake. Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar (Burma) hostels can help organize Inle Lake activities from off-the-beaten-path mountain bike rides through villages, cooking classes with locals, and customizable boat trips across the idyllic Inle Lake.
Many backpackers make their way to Nyaung Shwe by trekking from nearby Kalaw, but the area is also well connected to other parts of the country by bus. There are several hostels in Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar (Burma), and the surrounding areas, from boutique national chains to locally operated homestay-style accommodation. Some Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar (Burma) hostels may include breakfast, but if they don't, you'll have an easy time grabbing some warm eats from the street for a low price before heading out for the day. Be sure to try Shan noodles while visiting Nyaung Shwe -- they're made from tofu and absolutely wonderful!
Hostels in Nyaung Shwe, Myanmar (Burma), and across the nation, can be a bit more expensive than in surrounding countries in Southeast Asia. Everything else in the area, including daylong boat tours on Inle Lake, is extremely affordable.
Beyond visiting Inle Lake, travelers like to visit the Red Mountain Estate Vineyards, the countless temples and monasteries, and tobacco-rolling cooperatives. Everything in Nyaung Shwe is reachable on foot, but there are many tour companies that rent mountain bicycles by the hour or by the day. Motorbikes are not allowed in Nyaung Shwe, so don't plan any excursions that are far away unless you'd like to hire a driver.
Written by local enthusiast for Nyaung Shwe hostels
Lola
