The town of Pindaya sits on the edge of Nattamiekan Lake — also called Angels Lake — a placid stretch of water in the Shan Hills that reflects the surrounding hills and, on clear mornings, the limestone ridge where the cave temple sits above. The lake is the geographical heart of the town, and the view across the water to the cliff face and the pagoda at the cave entrance is the defining image of Pindaya.
Early morning is the best time to be at the lakeside, when the light is low and mist sometimes hangs over the water. Local fishermen work the lake in traditional flat-bottomed boats. A path runs along the shore and connects the town to the road that leads up to the cave complex.