Kayin State 2/10: Light Meal with 6-Legged Duck, Riding to Hloy Gaw, Myanmar eating 6 burmese fried duck

Kayin State 2/10: Light Meal with 6-Legged Duck, Riding to Hloy Gaw, Myanmar

This time, mr.hotsia takes everyone south to Kayin State, Myanmar, a land that still preserves the raw and simple lifestyle of the locals in an interesting way. This journey is not just about visiting places but experiencing local flavors that cannot be found elsewhere, especially the "6-legged duck," a signature dish that mr.hotsia had to quickly eat as a light meal before continuing.

Riding to Hloy Gaw: Route and Atmosphere

Traveling from the main city of Kayin State to Hloy Gaw involves riding through narrow roads surrounded by lush green mountains. Along the way, mr.hotsia witnessed the simple yet warm lifestyle of the people. The vehicle was not a modern car but a local one familiar with this route, making the journey feel closer to nature and the community.

Along the way, there were small rest stops where locals sold native products including fresh vegetables, fruits, and fragrant Burmese snacks. It also offered a glimpse of daily life that was peaceful and unhurried, making mr.hotsia feel like traveling back in time to the true past of this country.

6-Legged Duck: A Local Dish Not to Miss

Upon arriving at Hloy Gaw, the first thing mr.hotsia had to do was find the famous 6-legged duck dish. This crispy fried duck is seasoned with unique spices, creating a harmonious Burmese flavor combined with a distinctive aromatic spice scent. Some may wonder why it’s called 6-legged duck; the answer is that the duck is marinated and fried until the skin is extra crispy, large in size, and appears to have multiple legs, which is a unique characteristic of this dish.

mr.hotsia recommends eating it with hot sticky rice or Burmese-style steamed rice, topped with a sweet and sour dipping sauce made from tamarind and fresh chili, perfectly enhancing the flavor. This experience made mr.hotsia feel that food is more than just eating; it is a connection to the culture and lifestyle of the people in Kayin State.

Lifestyle and Roadside Food: Experience the Sincerity of Kayin People

During the ride to Hloy Gaw, mr.hotsia stopped at markets and roadside eateries that still maintain traditional local styles. These shops mostly open only a few hours a day but offer rare local dishes, many prepared with fresh local ingredients such as native vegetables, freshwater fish, and homegrown herbs.

mr.hotsia tried Burmese chicken curry with rich flavors, where spices deeply infused the chicken and side dishes. There was also hot tea and Indian-style roti popular in this area, perfect for travelers needing energy before continuing on unfamiliar routes.

Connection with Kachin State and Indawgyi Lake

For travelers wanting to explore beyond Kayin State, mr.hotsia recommends visitingKachin StateLocated north of Kayin State, it is the source of the important Irrawaddy River. Traveling in Kachin State is quite challenging but full of natural beauty that is hard to find elsewhere.

Another interesting destination isIndawgyi LakeA large freshwater lake with high biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Summary of Experience: Kayin State According to mr.hotsia

Kayin State, from mr.hotsia’s perspective, is not just a land of high mountains and beautiful nature but a path full of stories about its people, unique food, and a lifestyle that preserves the authenticity of rural Myanmar. Eating the local 6-legged duck, riding through dirt roads, and talking with locals made mr.hotsia feel like experiencing Myanmar in a way unlike any other.

For those who enjoy adventurous travel without luxury and love local food, Kayin State is a destination to add to your list. mr.hotsia guarantees that when you come here, you will fall in love with Myanmar from a new perspective you never knew before.