Indawgyi Myanmar 27/46: Trading Indawgyi Lake Fish

Indawgyi Myanmar 27/46: Trading Indawgyi Lake Fish

I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to explore the lifestyle by Indawgyi Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, located in Kachin State, Myanmar. The lake spans over 13 kilometers east to west and nearly 24 kilometers north to south. Around the lake are more than 20 villages of Tai Red and Kachin people who have preserved their traditional way of life in a fascinating way.

Indawgyi Lake is not only a natural water source but also a key center for lake fish trading for the local people. Especially at the morning market by the lake, I walked through a lively atmosphere where diverse ethnic groups gathered to buy and sell fresh fish caught from the lake, including various freshwater fish species caught daily by villagers rowing their boats.

Fishing methods at Indawgyi are quite simple and in harmony with nature. I saw locals using fish traps and small nets, as well as traditional wooden paddle boats moving slowly on the water. Fishing here is not just an economic activity but also reflects a sustainable relationship between people and nature.

I had the opportunity to talk with a fish vendor at the lakeside market. He said the best-selling fish are local species rarely found elsewhere, such as Indawgyi barb and small mullet fish commonly called lake fish by locals. The fish quality at Indawgyi is renowned for its freshness and great taste, perfect for local dishes like herbal fish curry or salt-grilled fish.

The Indawgyi fish market opens from early dawn. I enjoyed browsing the fish while smelling smoke from grilled fish stalls along the walkway. The atmosphere was like a morning market at home but full of a harmonious blend of cultures. Fish prices were considered cheap compared to their freshness and quality. I couldn’t resist buying some fish to cook at my accommodation during this trip.

Traveling to Indawgyi Lake is not easy because it is located in Mohnyin area of Kachin State, which remains very natural and receives few foreign tourists. I mostly rented a motorcycle from a nearby town and rode through small villages nestled on hillsides. The surrounding scenery evoked a true nature adventure.

For those interested in learning about the lifestyle and culture of the Tai Red and Kachin people in this area, I recommend reading the in-depth story aboutKachin Statewhich I have previously written. Here you will understand the history and relationship of the community with the Irrawaddy River, an important water source of Myanmar.

Another highlight I recommend is a boat trip on Indawgyi Lake in the morning and evening, especially during migratory bird season. This is an excellent birdwatching spot with various species such as Greylag geese and the rare Ai Ngu birds. Renting a boat with a local guide allows close encounters with nature and learning about wildlife in the 780-square-kilometer Indawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary.

If you enjoy market atmosphere and local food, I suggest stopping to taste roadside dishes in communities near the lake. Here you can find fresh freshwater fish dishes and local cuisine made from lake ingredients, such as spicy fish curry and crispy fried fish served with hot sticky rice—delicious and unforgettable.

For travel lovers seeking an unspoiled natural experience, Indawgyi is a very interesting destination. I, mr.hotsia, have traveled here and felt the warmth of the community and the intact nature. I want everyone to come and experience it for themselves.

If you want to read more stories about Indawgyi Lake and the life of the Tai Red people here, you can follow the articleIndawgyithat I have written, including stories about food in Myanmar connected to lakeside lifestyles in the articleFood in Bagan, Pagan, Myanmarwhich may help provide a clearer picture of the culture and cuisine of people in this region.

For video clips where I share my real experience at the Indawgyi Lake fish market, you can watchIndawgyi Myanmar 27/46: Trading Indawgyi Lake Fishto feel the atmosphere and fresh fish trading from the lakeside through my perspective, mr.hotsia.