Champoo Island

Champoo Island: The hair-washing island in the middle of the Salween River in Mon State

I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to travel to Mon State, Myanmar, and I must say one of the most memorable experiences was visiting “Champoo Island,” or the hair-washing island located in the middle of the Salween River. This small island seems simple but hides fascinating stories and deep beliefs of the Mon people.

Champoo Island does not have a bridge like other islands in the area. To visit, you must take a private boat from the town of Mawlamyine, which is very affordable, just a few dozen baht. I remember while crossing the Salween River by boat to the island, I saw the island on the right side, a small island with a prominent pagoda standing in the middle. The first feeling I had was the peace and sacredness that spread all around.

Legend and Sacredness of the Island's Pond

On the island, there is a pond called the “Sacred Pond” by locals, said to be guarded by a Naga serpent. This pond is where the local queen used to wash her hair and receive only good things in life. The motorcycle driver I rented told me that not only the local queen but also King Rama V of Thailand once visited this island. There are photos kept on the island to support this story, but I cannot confirm its authenticity.

The sacred pond is locked to prevent anyone from washing their hair directly in it, but there is a small opening to scoop water. I tried scooping water into my hands and poured it over my head as locals advised. Although I didn’t wash my hair for real, I felt blessed with good luck and prosperity. This was the moment I prayed for happiness, peace, and success for myself and my family. Amen.

Atmosphere and Lifestyle on the Island

The island has resting pavilions and Thai-style Buddha statues for worship. The nun who takes care of the place is very kind and also cares for several small dogs. These little dogs can open the door by themselves, which is a very cute and warm sight. There is also a statue of a female Naga, considered the guardian of the sacred pond. You definitely don’t want to miss seeing this.

I recommend that if you want to visit this island on your own, you should contactThe Breeze guest housein Mawlamyine, where I stayed for 6 nights. They have contacts and can conveniently arrange trips to the island. Or if you like riding motorcycles, you can rent one here for just 300 baht per day and ride to Mudon town and stop by Champoo Island as you wish.

Connecting with Mawlamyine and Mawlamyaing

When visiting Champoo Island, I usually recommend traveling from Mawlamyine, an important city in Mon State. This city has charm in both culture and diverse cuisine.Chinese Restaurant in MawlamyineI tried BONE GYI RESTAURANT, which serves unique Mawlamyine fried chicken and shrimp fried rice. If you come around here, don’t forget to stop by and try them.

Additionally, Mawlamyine is the starting point for traveling toMawlamyaingwhich is the old capital of the Mon people and also the gateway to Champoo Island. I once rented a motorcycle to tour Mawlamyaing and stopped by Champoo Island on the same day. It was convenient and gave me a genuine local lifestyle experience.

Personal Experience and Advice from mr.hotsia

I, mr.hotsia, must say that Champoo Island offers a special feeling beyond typical tourist spots. Besides seeing nature and culture, you also experience the deep beliefs and history embedded in the hearts of the locals.

My advice for travelers wanting to visit this island is to have a local acquaintance or guide. Without a guide, it might be hard to find the sacred pond, the island’s highlight, and taking a private boat from Mawlamyaing to the island will be much easier.

Another thing I want to share is the atmosphere where I stayed atThe Breeze guest housein Mawlamyine. It is a quiet accommodation by the Salween River with beautiful morning river views. I worked here for several days and felt like living like a local. They offer currency exchange and have friendly staff, making travel to Mawlamyaing and Champoo Island much more convenient.

Summary of Impressions

Champoo Island is not just an ordinary island in the middle of the Salween River. It is a place full of stories, faith, and tranquility that I, mr.hotsia, want everyone interested in Mon culture to visit and experience for themselves.

If you have the chance to come to Mon State, don’t forget to stop by this hair-washing island and try the sacred water to receive good blessings. I wish everyone good luck and happiness as I have experienced. Amen.