One of the oldest lodges on Inle Lake, the Golden Island Cottages (Nampan) are a collection of 52 traditional bamboo bungalows, situated in the middle of the lake on raised wooden platforms. The hotel is decidedly old fashioned and lacks some of the facilities of neighbouring lodges, but it is very comfortable and exceptionally good value.
Along with its sister lodge, Paradise Inle, Golden Island Cottages is our preferred low-cost option on Inle Lake. The facilities are basic, but the marvellous location and traditional accommodation allows this property to stand out over similarly priced lodges. It is located on the northern section of Inle and so offers easy access to the lake’s main attractions, such as the Jumping Cat Monastery and Shwe Indein. The hotel is run as a very successful community project and the staff, who are friendly and helpful, are all employed from the local Pa-O tribe.
NB. There's a second Golden Island resort, appropriately named Golden Island Cottages II (or Thale-U), that is largely identical to the first, only smaller (30 rooms) and located closer to the centre of the lake.
Accommodation
Counting both Golden Island resorts, there are 82 rooms in total spread across three room categories: standard, superior and deluxe. The older standard rooms are really beginning to show their age; superior or deluxe are preferable. All of the rooms are made from local bamboo and thatch. Furnishing is simple but comfortable with en-suite bathrooms, balcony/terrace, coffee tea making facilities and Wi-Fi. Please note there is no TV or air conditioning.*
The cottages and public spaces are suspended over the water with lake views on all sides. We recommend choosing one of the new deluxe rooms which have good sized balconies to make the most of the views—these are much more appealing than the standard rooms, and the difference in price is negligible outside of peak season.
*For most of the year, the lack of air-con is not a concern, as Inle does not see the same high temperatures as other regions of Myanmar (you’re more likely to be surprised by how cold it can get). During Mar-May, however, the temperatures can easily reach 35°c. We wouldn’t recommend the Golden Island Cottages during this time of year.
Dining
There is a choice of indoor or outdoor dining. The dishes on offer include local Burmese and Chinese specialities.
As with all hotels on Inle Lake, you’re dining options are very restricted. There are no nearby restaurants.
Facilities
Restaurant
Bar and lounge
Massage room
Child Policy
Children are welcome.
NB. Please note that the rooms at Golden Island Cottages sit directly above the water and are connected by simple wooden platforms. Though the lake is shallow, there is a small risk for children. A lodge on the shores of the lake, such as Inle Princess, might be more suitable for families with very young children.
Responsible Tourism
Golden Island Cottages is run as a community project, staffed and managed entirely by local people.
