These Lakes of Myanmar Will Take Your Breath Away

By Amrita Kundu

Being a country with a wide variety of natural features, Myanmar is home to stunning natural lakes. Over the years, several artificial lakes have also been built in the country, which are no less pretty that their natural counterparts.

If you are a traveller who likes to gaze at waterbodies and soak in nature, you can include some of the lakes in your itinerary. While almost everybody is aware of Inle Lake and Indawgyi Lake, why not head to the lesser-known ones for some unexpected discoveries?

Here are a few less-travelled yet beautiful lakes to consider.

Htee Pwint Lake

This volcanic lake is fondly known as Umbrella Pond. It is located in Demoso Township, about 19 kilometres from Loikaw, amidst paddy fields. The lake has a circumference of around 100 feet and is surrounded by lush green paddy cultivation. There are mud volcanoes at several places, where mud mixed with water bubbles from the earth within due to the pressure of methane gas trapped inside the earth.

According to local legends of the Kayah people, the lake was created by crocodiles who dug the area with the help of a white buffalo.

Twin Taung Lake

This lake is located about 10 kilometres from Budalin Township, which is about 6 hours’ drive from Nay Pyi Taw. Located about 200 metres higher than the surrounding area, this is a natural lake with a beautiful natural surrounding.

However, the lake holds more than just aesthetic significance. Twin Taung Lake is one of the few places in the world where spirulina can be found. Spirulina is a cyanobacterium with amazing medicinal and cosmetic value. There is a spirulina factory at the base of the hill.

Blue Lake of Ywangan

Located between Kalaw and Mandalay, this natural lake is characterised by charming blue water. The water is fed by a waterfall located nearby. The best way to reach this lake is to first head to Pindaya Township in Shan State and then take a taxi or motorbike to the lake. The lake is located in a ravine, beside Taw Kyel Village, about 7 kilometres from Pindaya. The bed of the lake is carpeted with white stones and fishes swim freely in the water.

The locals believe that a guardian spirit guards the lake and punishes those who disrespect the lake. Swimming in the lake is strictly prohibited since it is considered disrespectful. You will surely be mesmerised by the blue colour of the water and lush green surroundings of the region.

Meiktila Lake

This lake is located near the Meiktila town of Myanmar. It is an artificial water reservoir created for irrigation purposes. The lake and its surroundings are stunning. This 11-kilometre-long lake gets its water supply from Mone-Dai dam.

The lake is so large that it is divided into two portions – north lake and south lake – with a bridge dividing the two. Visitors can cycle on the bridge and enjoy the breathtaking environment.

Lake of No Return

This remote lake with a curious name lies on the India-Myanmar border. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, it is 1.4 kilometres long and 0.8 kilometre wide. If you are up for some adventure, do visit this lake. However, you will need to obtain relevant permissions before embarking on the journey.

Several accounts can be found in explaining the origin of this unique name. Among them is that the name was given after several Allied aircraft crash-landed here during World War II.

Rhi Lake

Located in Chin State and just 3 kilometres from the Indian border is one of the most magnificent lakes in Myanmar. With a diameter of 4.8 kilometres and 18 metres deep, the wonder of this heart-shaped lake is aptly complemented by its breathtaking surroundings. The lake is also called Rih Dil, ‘Dil’ meaning heart in an Indian language.

The Chin people believe that life after death is divided into two worlds. While many spirits go to Mitthi Khua or the village of death, some go to Pialral or heaven. However, spirits have to pass through Rhi Lake to reach heaven. Hence, the lake is highly revered by the locals as a pathway to heaven.

Being close to a waterbody has been proven to provide health benefits. We are so used to seeing concrete and dust in our everyday lives that it is only natural to crave for a break. Include some of these lakes and add magic to your Myanmar itinerary. Your eyes deserve some green and blue!