Indawgyi Myanmar 29/46: Eating Red Thai Khao Soi at Indawgyi Lake local village

Indawgyi Myanmar 29/46: Eating Red Thai Khao Soi at Indawgyi Lake local village

I, mr.hotsia, had the opportunity to travel to Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State, Myanmar, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia. The lake is about 13 kilometers wide and stretches 24 kilometers from north to south. Around the lake are more than 20 local villages that have preserved their traditional way of life in a fascinating way, especially the Red Thai people, also known as the Shan. This was my intended destination to deeply experience both nature and culture.

Indawgyi Lake is located in the Mohnyin administrative area ofKachin Statewhich is famous as the source of the Irrawaddy River, the main river of Myanmar. I rode a motorcycle along small paths through villages surrounding the lake. Most of the area remains ecologically intact and includes important wildlife sanctuaries, home to many rare mammals and birds seldom seen elsewhere.

Local lifestyle and cuisine: Unique Red Thai Khao Soi

One of the most impressive experiences was tasting the Red Thai Khao Soi. The Khao Soi here is completely different from the Khao Soi in Chiang Mai. Although they share the same name, the flavor and ingredients are unique. The original Red Thai Khao Soi I ate in a lakeside village was full of balanced spices, combined with fresh meat and chewy noodles. Importantly, the curry aroma was not too strong, making it easy to eat continuously without feeling greasy.

Most locals still cook traditionally using charcoal stoves and ingredients sourced from the natural surroundings, such as local vegetables and meat from small farms. I saw local cooks preparing Khao Soi and enjoyed exchanging stories with them. The warmth of the Red Thai people made eating Khao Soi in this village not just about food but a deep connection to a lifestyle intertwined with nature.

Exploring Indawgyi Lake: Wooden boats and lakeside villages

After enjoying Khao Soi, I decided to take a local wooden boat to tour Indawgyi Lake. Renting a boat from villagers was easy and affordable. The boat drifted through clear water surrounded by lush green mountains. Especially in January, you can see many rare birds flying by, including Greylag geese and the elusive Ayeyarwady duck, which are hard to spot elsewhere in Myanmar.

Along the way, passing small villages lined along the lake shore, I stopped to talk with locals and experience their simple lifestyle. Although in a remote area, the Red Thai and Kachin people here strongly preserve their cultural traditions, including weaving, making jewelry, and organizing various festivals, which I had the chance to witness up close.

Travel and tips for travelers

Traveling to Indawgyi Lake is not easy due to its remote location in Kachin State. But if you enjoy adventure and want to experience Myanmar from a different perspective, I recommend planning ahead and preparing well, especially regarding language and finding accommodation in the small villages around the lake.

For myself, mr.hotsia, I chose to stay at a small guesthouse in a village near the lake, giving me the chance to chat with the homeowner and villagers in a friendly way. There are no fancy restaurants or commercial tourist spots here, but the charm lies in the simplicity and sincerity of the people.

If anyone is interested in more stories and the atmosphere of Indawgyi, you can read in-depth details aboutIndawgyi, Indawgyi Lakeand Kachin State from my article, which thoroughly describes the nature and culture of this area.

Summary of impressions from Indawgyi

Indawgyi Lake and the surrounding Red Thai villages are perfect for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and experience authentic community life. I, mr.hotsia, saw and tasted the uniquely flavored Red Thai Khao Soi and immersed myself in the pure nature and fresh air that are rare to find nowadays. Visiting here is not just tourism but a journey into the true heart of Myanmar.

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