Temperate and picturesque, Inle Lake is one of the nation's top attractions. Ringed by mountains and dotted by stupas and monasteries, the lake supports a remarkable, water-based culture, where floating farms grow fruit and vegetables, and many depend on fishing for their livelihood. The neighboring villages are populated by some 70,000 Danaw, Danu, Intha, Kayah, Taung-yo and Shan peoples, who live in houses on stilts over the lake's 45 square-mile (117 square-kilometer) surface. Inle Lake is a pleasant, relaxing addition to any trip; popular activities include bicycling, hiking, boating, and a visit to a series of floating markets and villages.