Ostello Bello

Top choice in Nyaungshwe


This very well-organised hostel – part of an expanding chain – has become the go-to place for backpackers in Nyaungshwe. A variety of dorms is on offer, from four to 14 beds, all fair-sized with decent mattresses, bathrooms inside and cage lockers. Private rooms aren't big but they are comfortable and some come with balconies. Switched-on staff, too.

But the bigger draws are the great rooftop terrace with a daily happy hour from 5pm to 9pm, free pasta served three times a day, the hostel's own Inle Lake tours, the central location and any number of daily events to keep you entertained.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Nyaungshwe attractions

1. Independence Monument

0.16 MILES

The independence monument – a white obelisk – is tucked away at one end of a sports field. Next to it is a gold statue of Sao Shwe Thaike, the last saopha…

2. Yadana Man Aung Paya

0.23 MILES

The oldest and most important Buddhist shrine in Nyaungshwe, this handsome gilded stupa is hidden away inside a square compound south of Mingala Market…

3. Mingala Market

0.24 MILES

At the entrance to town, this busy market is packed with locals every morning, when traders from the lake bring in fresh fish and produce from the…

4. Cultural Museum

0.56 MILES

This equal parts imposing and melancholy structure is the former haw (palace) of the last saopha (sky prince) of Nyaungshwe, Sao Shwe Thaike, who also…

5. Shwe Yaunghwe Kyaung

1.68 MILES

This is probably the most photographed monastery in Nyaungshwe: the unique oval windows in the ancient teak thein (ordination hall) create a perfect frame…

6. Yan Aung Nan Aung Hsu Taung Pye Paya

2.37 MILES

In the village of Nanthe, this Buddhist temple complex features a 26ft-high sitting buddha surrounded by stucco deva (celestial beings) and chinthe (half…

7. Red Mountain Estate

2.69 MILES

This winery is open daily for tastings (K5000 for four wines). There's an attached restaurant with a menu of mostly Western dishes, as well as good views…

8. Maing Thauk

6.07 MILES

Half of the village of Maing Thauk is set on dry land, while the other half sits on stilts over the water, linked to the shore by a 450yd wooden bridge…