Indawgyi Myanmar 36/46: Enchanted by Two Red Tai Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 3/4

Indawgyi Myanmar 36/46: Enchanted by Two Red Tai Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 3/4

When talking about one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, the name Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State, Myanmar always comes to my mind first. This trip by mr.hotsia was not just to enjoy the peaceful natural scenery of the lake but also to experience the warmth of two Red Tai sisters who have fascinating life stories and culture.

Indawgyi is located in the Mohnyin administrative district of Kachin State. The lake is about 13 kilometers wide from east to west and 24 kilometers long from north to south. Around the lake, there are more than 20 villages inhabited by Red Tai and Kachin people. I had the chance to take a boat ride on the lake in the morning; the weather was cool, the water clear, and I saw a variety of bird species. This atmosphere reminded me of a rare tranquility hard to find in big cities.

But what impressed me the most on this visit was meeting the two Red Tai sisters, “Nong Mia Mya San” and “Pinang,” in a lakeside village. Their warmth and smiles were like a guiding light in the darkness. The Red Tai culture is remarkably well preserved, from traditional tribal clothing, speaking the native language, to the local food they prepared for me to taste.

This journey of mr.hotsia started from Myitkyina city, which is not far from the source of the Irrawaddy River (read more atKachin State). I chose to rent a motorcycle to ride to Indawgyi, which took about an hour. The views along the way passing through Red Tai villages and various tribes allowed me to absorb a simple yet valuable way of life.

Upon arriving at Indawgyi Lake, I found a guesthouse that served as the starting point for renting boats to watch birds and enjoy the lake views. January, when I visited, is the best time to see many rare bird species. Greylag geese and the elusive Lesser Adjutant stork appeared up close. I recommend bringing a camera and binoculars because these birds will surely amaze you.

Additionally, I experienced the lifestyle in the Red Tai lakeside villages, including rice farming, hand weaving, and unique local dishes such as sticky rice with a special Red Tai chili paste. The friendliness of the villagers and their warm smiles made every step in Indawgyi an unforgettable memory.

The two sisters, “Nong Mia Mya San” and “Pinang,” told me about the traditions and rituals of the Red Tai people that continue to be passed down, such as the Rocket Festival and traditional folk games held during various festivals. I shared meals with their family and tasted local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the lake and surrounding forests. It felt like revisiting my childhood home.

If you want to experience Myanmar from a perspective different from main tourist cities like Yangon or Bagan, Indawgyi and Kachin State are the best answers.Indawgyi Lakeis not just an ordinary tourist spot but a place to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the two Red Tai sisters, where I truly felt the heart of humanity.

The memories I brought back are not just the clear lake views or the morning bird songs but the warmth of the people here that made mr.hotsia feel this trip was not just about sightseeing nature but truly experiencing the life and heart of the Red Tai people in Indawgyi.

For anyone interested in experiencing this atmosphere, I recommend preparing well, especially regarding travel and language, because this is not a major tourist city like Bagan or Yangon. However, the simplicity of life and the beauty of nature will make you fall in love unexpectedly.

Before we part, mr.hotsia wants you to open your heart and see Indawgyi not just as a lake but as the home of the two Red Tai sisters who offer warmth and stories more impressive than you might have imagined.

If you are interested in travel stories and lifestyles of people in Kachin State, including in-depth nature and cultural attractions, mr.hotsia has written several articles. You can click to read more atKachin StateandIndawgyito prepare before your trip.

Finally, if you want to see the real atmosphere of Indawgyi, you can watch mr.hotsia’s video on YouTube here:Indawgyi Myanmar 36/46: Enchanted by Two Red Tai Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 3/4Wishing everyone an enjoyable trip and great experiences from Myanmar.