Backpacking Southern Khmer 16/41: Thoughts After Mon-Style Stir-Fried Chicken in Mawlamyine

Backpacking Southern Khmer 16/41: Thoughts After Mon-Style Stir-Fried Chicken in Mawlamyine

I, mr.hotsia, am currently writing this article in Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar, after tasting the unique flavor of Mon-style stir-fried chicken at a favorite riverside restaurant along the Salween River. I must say this experience made me feel much more connected to this city than I had ever imagined. Although Mawlamyine is known to Thai people through old songs and legends, living here reveals a unique charm that cannot be found anywhere else.

The Chinese restaurant I am referring to isBONE GYI RESTAURANTwhich is located on the road along the Salween River, near The Breeze Guesthouse where I stayed several nights. This restaurant is my frequent destination to order Mon-style fried chicken and shrimp fried rice because of its harmonious blend of Chinese and Mon local flavors. Although the restaurant has quite a few flies, the owner lights candles to keep them away and maintains cleanliness as much as possible. I happily enjoy my meal with the view of the Salween River right in front of me.

The food here is very affordable: Mon-style fried chicken costs about 120 baht, shrimp fried rice 100 baht. I usually order these two dishes with plain rice for an afternoon meal to recharge before going out to explore the city. Sometimes I chat with the owner who once lived in Thailand, which makes me feel that the food and culture here are more connected to ours than I had thought.

Mawlamyine is a city where Burmese and Mon people live together harmoniously, with diverse cultures and interesting cuisine.Mawlamyine CuisineOverall, it resembles Burmese food in many areas, but here it stands out with Chinese restaurants mixed in and is famous for fried chicken and fried rice dishes I tasted. Mawlamyine also has delicious Thai food from Thai people who once lived here. If anyone misses stir-fried holy basil with fried egg, don’t worry, it’s available here and won’t disappoint.

I chose to stay atThe Breeze Guesthousewhich is the best and most worthwhile accommodation in Mawlamyine for me. Located by the Salween River, it offers beautiful river views in the morning, a peaceful atmosphere perfect for working and relaxing. The owner and staff are very friendly, like family. I spent 6 nights here, watching people pass by, observing riverside life, and writing travel stories.

After enjoying my favorite meals, I often go out to explore Mawlamyine on my own.Exploring Mawlamyine IndependentlyThis journey gave me new perspectives of the city, including beautiful ancient temples with historical significance, as well as markets and communities that clearly preserve the traditional Mon way of life.

Regarding travel between Mawlamyine and nearby towns, I recommend trying a round-trip motorcycle taxi to Mottama, the old capital of the Mon people, which also has a white pagoda by the Salween River to enjoy the old atmosphere. The cost is not expensive, about 100 baht round trip. This kind of travel helps you experience the local lifestyle and nature better.Mottama 2013is another destination I highly recommend for visitors to Mawlamyine.

Additionally, I visited a small island called Shampoo Island, located not far from Mawlamyine. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. If you want to go without extra cost, I suggest telling the boat driver from the start.Shampoo Islandis a favorite destination of mine because besides experiencing clear water, the peaceful atmosphere helps me recharge before heading back to the city.

Mawlamyine also has many other attractions, including authentic Mon architecture temples and beautiful Burmese dance performances where I had the chance to appreciate the meticulousness and care of the Mon people.Burmese Danceis another aspect that deepened my understanding of the local culture.

This trip of mine, mr.hotsia, was not just tourism but a true learning experience of the lives of people in Mawlamyine. I tasted unforgettable food and experienced the beautiful and peaceful atmosphere along the Salween River. I hope this story inspires many who want to travel to Myanmar, Mon State, to open their world and experience the hidden beauty of Mawlamyine themselves.

For those interested in more details about the food and culture of the Mawlamyine people, you can read the articleMawlamyine CuisineOr if you like in-depth travel styles, check outBackpacking Southern Khmer 16/41: Thoughts After Mon-Style Stir-Fried Chicken in Mawlamyineon my YouTube channel as well.