Inle Princess is a tranquil resort set on the eastern bank of Inle Lake, beneath the Shan Hills, from where it enjoys stunning views over the lake's shimmering waters.
Of all the resorts on Inle Lake, we would argue that Inle Princess enjoys the best location. It is situated in a quiet, swampy region of the lake, tucked away among verdant vegetation. This lends it a wonderfully remote feel, not to mention an extra degree of peace and quiet (this atmosphere of tranqulity is further helped by Inle Princess’ policy of not allowing motorboats to operate their engines within 350 metres of the guest rooms, whereas at many other resorts motorboat noise can be a disturbance during the day).
Inle Princess is one of only a small number of five-star resorts on the Lake, but it doesn’t feel overly fussy or ostentatious; indeed it does a marvellous job of blending in with its surrounds. All of Inle Princess’ 46 guest chalets were built and designed by Intha carpenters using local bamboo and hardwoods. They are furnished with Shan and Intha fabrics and equipped with traditional clay fireplaces, giving them a wonderfully rustic vibe. They feel at home in their natural environment, and allow you to feel at home as well. You sense a real commitment to the local culture and environment at Inle Princess, which isn’t always apparent in other resorts.
Accommodation
Inle Princess’ cottages have been designed in the traditional style of the Shan and Intha people, with teak wooden floors and enormous open windows that allow in the light and take advantage of the views. They have rear entrances and open onto small private terraces overlooking the lake. Inside, local fabrics and furnishings add a bit of colour to the rooms, while the clay oven-style fireplaces—our favourite feature—create a very cosy atmosphere, perfect for those chilly nights and mornings which surprise so many visitors to Inle Lake.
Despite their resemblance to the traditional lake cottages, the guest chalets at Inle Princess feature all the key mod-cons, including air-conditioning and heating, Wi-Fi (very intermittent), and tea/coffee facilities. The bathrooms are generously sized and equipped with quirky standalone bathtubs designed to resemble row boats and, in some of the rooms, outdoor showers with a view.
Most of Inle Princess' 46 rooms enjoy a view of the lake (albeit in some cases obscured), but a small number face the Shan Hills behind the lodge. The view does vary quite substantially between rooms, even within the same category, so do let us know your preferences before you book and we’ll try and get you the best room available. Don’t underestimate the mountain view!
Dining
Inle Princess’ smart restaurant, again designed in traditional style and with an outdoor terrace, serves local as well as wider Asian and Western cuisine.
There’s a variety of dinner venues, including the open, thatched dining area, your own room terrace (perfect for private dinners), or, for a candlelit dinner for two, the wine cave.
Facilities
- Restaurant and bar
- Spa
- Internet access
- Gift shop
- Well-stocked wine cellar
Child Policy
Inle Princess has no age restrictions.
