KOREA FOUNDATION

As one of the largest cradles of Buddhist civilization and home to a flourishing Buddhist culture, Myanmar shelters close to four million pagodas within its borders, earning it the title of the “Buddhist nation.” Befitting its reputation, Myanmar holds Buddhist festivals throughout the year, with one such festival held between September and October drawing flocks of visitors to the shores of Inle Lake.

 

Located in a plateau at an altitude of 880 meters above sea level, Inle Lake is one of the jewels in the Myanmar crown. It provides spectacular views of stilt houses sitting just above the lake’s surface, with their ethnic minority inhabitants living, farming, and even holding markets atop its waters. A particular highlight is the Buddhist festival held during September and October. Called the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival, it centers on the Phaung Daw Oo Temple of Inle Lake. For 18 days the faithful－who are seldom afforded the opportunity to visit temples in their daily lives－pray to the impressive golden Buddhist statues housed on a grand barge that visits the many villages dotting the waterways feeding the Inle region.

 

On the first day of the festival, ethnic minority groups including the Inta, Pao, and Shan gather to catch a glimpse of the colorful procession, creating spectacular scenes. Representatives of the villages compete in boat races, while others hold folk performances aboard the golden barge.

 

Tread the path of the followers of Buddha and Inle is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.