Indawgyi Myanmar 23/46: Nong Na Chawai Sim So Embarrassed She Dropped the Bowl!

Indawgyi Myanmar 23/46: Nong Na Chawai Sim So Embarrassed She Dropped the Bowl!

When talking about large freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia that are still relatively unknown, Indawgyi or Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State, Myanmar is one of those places that I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to experience myself. I must say this experience was both exciting and heartwarming, unforgettable.

Indawgyi Lake is located in Mohnyin District of Kachin State. It is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the region, approximately 13 kilometers wide and 24 kilometers long. Around the lake are more than 20 villages, mostly inhabited by Shan or Tai Daeng people, as well as Kachin communities who remarkably maintain their traditional way of life.

I traveled here with the intention to experience lakeside life and try local desserts at Nam Orim village, a small riverside village warmly welcoming visitors. "Nong Na Chawai Sim," a Shan girl there, acted as the hostess presenting a special shaved ice dessert served in local ceramic bowls.

I must say that moment was very cute. Nong Na Chawai Sim was so shy she dropped the shaved ice bowl right on the table. Although a small incident, it was filled with genuine feelings and care that I clearly felt. Honestly, I was shy for her too because the friendliness here made me feel like visiting relatives’ home, not just a passing tourist.

To get to Indawgyi, although public transport is not very convenient, you can rent a motorcycle from Mohnyin town and ride about 40 kilometers to the lake. The route is full of scenic views of forests, mountains, and indigenous villages that still preserve traditional lifestyles. So the journey is not just crossing distance but traveling through a blend of culture and nature.

Additionally, Indawgyi is an important wildlife sanctuary in Myanmar. This over 780 square kilometer area is home to many rare mammals and birds, especially birds seen in January such as Greylag geese and the striking purple swamphen. For bird watchers and nature conservationists, Indawgyi is a must-visit destination.

The local food here is equally interesting. I tasted various local dishes made by villagers, mostly from fresh ingredients from the lake and surrounding farmland. The shaved ice dessert by Nong Na Chawai Sim was my favorite—sweet, fragrant, and refreshing, perfect for Myanmar’s hot weather.

If you want to know Indawgyi more deeply, try watching the video I recorded on this trip atIndawgyi Myanmar 23/46: Nong Na Chawai Sim So Embarrassed She Dropped the Bowl!You will see the charm of the people here and the lakeside atmosphere that I couldn’t fully describe in this article.

Connection with Kachin State and travel in Myanmar

Indawgyi is located in Kachin State, which I have previously written about in the articleKachin StateThis state is the source of the Irrawaddy River, Myanmar’s main river, and also home to Myitsone, the fascinating starting point of the Irrawaddy River.

If you are interested in deep natural and cultural adventures, I recommend planning a trip to Kachin State combining both Indawgyi Lake and Myitsone. You will see diverse lifestyles and landscapes and experience the beauty of well-preserved nature.

Real experience from the field

I, mr.hotsia, am not a shortcut or luxury resort traveler but someone who loves deep travel and experiencing local life. Indawgyi is another destination that fits this well. I remember sitting on a boat touring the lake through various villages, talking with locals, learning about different cultures and languages. Even when communication was difficult, smiles and friendliness completed the experience perfectly.

Moreover, traveling in Kachin State requires good preparation because some roads are still dirt tracks, some villages require boat or foot travel, and the weather changes quickly. These factors add charm and challenge to the journey.

Summary

If you are looking for a unique Myanmar travel experience, Indawgyi in Kachin State is the answer I, mr.hotsia, want to recommend. With beautiful nature, warm communities, and a lifestyle that retains its uniqueness, this lake is not just a tourist spot but a life experience you will never forget.

Don’t forget to read other related articles about Myanmar such asKachin Stateto understand the overall picture and travel routes, as well as explore the lifestyles of Bagan and Yangon in the articlesFood in Bagan, MyanmarandHorse Carriage Rides in Bagan, Myanmarto complete your Myanmar trip perfectly.