Indawgyi Myanmar 2/46: Arrived at Indawgyi, the land of Red Tai, Kachin State, Myanmar travel to Indawgyi Lake

Indawgyi Myanmar 2/46: Arrived at Indawgyi, the land of Red Tai, Kachin State, Myanmar

Hello, I am mr.hotsia sharing the journey to Indawgyi Lake located in Kachin State, Myanmar. This is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia and a natural site I intended to experience deeply myself.

Upon arriving at Indawgyi, the first feeling I sensed was the tranquility and vastness of the lake stretching 24 kilometers north to south and about 13 kilometers east to west. Around the lake are villages of the Red Tai people, known in Myanmar as “Shan,” as well as Kachin people who still maintain traditional lifestyles. Most locals still primarily engage in agriculture and fishing.

This lake is located in Mohnyin district of Kachin State, an area I have written about before in articlesKachin Statebecause this state is the origin of the Irrawaddy River, Myanmar’s main river, making Indawgyi ecologically and culturally significant to the local way of life.

Traveling to Indawgyi Lake

Traveling here is not easy for foreign tourists, especially if you want to truly experience the local life blended with the nature of Kachin State. I chose to rent a motorcycle from Mohnyin town and rode along roads that are still quite raw and challenging, taking about 1-2 hours from the town. This reminded me of the journey to Myitsone that I previously shared about,Kachin Statewhich is the charming origin of the Irrawaddy River as well.

Riding a motorcycle in Kachin requires caution and always wearing a helmet. Some roads are still dirt and steep, but this challenge made the experience enjoyable and allowed me to truly feel the atmosphere of this region.

Atmosphere and lifestyle of the Red Tai people by Indawgyi Lake

I stopped at small lakeside villages inhabited by warm and friendly Red Tai people. Most villagers still live simply, growing rice, gardening, and fishing in Indawgyi Lake. The atmosphere here is filled with natural scents and a peacefulness rarely found in crowded tourist spots.

Additionally, Indawgyi is an important wildlife sanctuary in Myanmar, established in 1999 by the Ministry of Ecotourism, covering over 780 square kilometers. It is home to many rare mammals and birds, including endangered species such as the Greylag goose and the Lesser Adjutant stork, which I had the chance to see in January.

For bird watchers, Indawgyi is a true paradise. You can rent boats from guesthouses in the villages to cruise and observe various water birds while learning about the local lifestyle where boats are the main mode of transport.

Food and dining at Indawgyi

Regarding food, I tasted simple local dishes with surprisingly rich flavors. The Red Tai here focus on dishes made from local ingredients, such as river fish stir-fried with spices and traditionally cooked sticky rice. The flavors are bold but not overly spicy, similar to what I experienced inFood in Bagan, Paganwhich is equally diverse and flavorful.

Besides food, I also found a small market by the lake where locals sell fresh vegetables, fruits, and handicrafts that reflect the unique identity of the Red Tai and Kachin peoples. I enjoyed walking through the market and exchanging stories with the friendly local vendors.

Impressions and advice by mr.hotsia

Indawgyi is not just an ordinary lake; it is a gathering place of the lifestyle and culture of the Red Tai ethnic group in Myanmar, who have remarkably preserved their traditions. The tranquility of nature and warmth of the people made me feel like I traveled back in time to an era still enchanted by riverside life.

I recommend preparing well for a journey that may not be very comfortable, but I assure you it is worth every kilometer traveled. Although the roads are dusty and winding in parts, what I saw and experienced made me forget all fatigue.

If you are interested in truly knowing and experiencing this area, don’t forget to check the detailed stories and deeper insights ofIndawgyi that I have written beforeincludingKachin Statewhere Indawgyi is located, which will help you better understand the context of this area.

Follow my journey mr.hotsia atVideo Indawgyi Myanmar 2/46: Arrived at Indawgyi, the land of Red Tai, Kachin State, Myanmarwhich takes you to experience the real atmosphere I personally recorded.

Finally, visiting Indawgyi is not just tourism; it is an experience to learn about the lives of the Red Tai and Kachin people who still hold firmly to their traditional ways and the beautiful nature of Kachin State in Myanmar.