Indawgyi Myanmar 37/46: Enchanted by Two Red Shan Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 4/4

Indawgyi Myanmar 37/46: Enchanted by Two Red Shan Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 4/4

When talking about Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State, Myanmar, many people may not be familiar with this place. But for mr.hotsia, Indawgyi is a magical corner hidden in the peacefulness of nature and is home to two Red Shan sisters whom I had the chance to meet and fall in love with on this trip.

Indawgyi Lake is considered one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, spanning 13 kilometers from east to west and over 24 kilometers from north to south. Around the lake are more than 20 small villages inhabited by the Red Shan people, also known as “Shan,” as well as some Kachin residents. The area is about 166 meters above sea level and has been designated as the Indawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary since 1999. Because of this, it remains rich in both flora and fauna, especially rare bird species that are hard to find elsewhere in Myanmar.

mr.hotsia began the journey by renting a motorcycle from the accommodation to ride around the lake and visit various lakeside villages. In each village, I encountered the simple and warm lifestyle of the Red Shan people. Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang, two Red Shan sisters I met, represent the culture and beauty of this community. They shared stories about local traditions, traditional rice farming, and indigenous weaving techniques passed down through generations.

The lakeside atmosphere is very peaceful, with clear water where fish can be seen swimming beneath the surface. Most locals still live closely connected to nature, and eco-tourism helps preserve the environment and traditional ways of life very well.

Besides experiencing the natural beauty and culture, I also tried the local Red Shan cuisine, which has a mild flavor and uses truly local ingredients such as purple sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and fish caught from the lake. These simple dishes are full of deliciousness and warmth that I will never forget.

This visit to Indawgyi reminded me of an articleKachin Statethat I once wrote about the origin of the Irrawaddy River not far from this lake. The water here is not just nature flowing through but a lifeline and cultural link connecting various communities in Kachin State.

In the early morning, I also took a boat to watch the sunrise over the lake’s surface, which was a breathtaking sight. Various bird species flew around, including Greylag geese and the endangered Ai Nguar bird, making me feel this is truly a paradise for bird watchers and nature-loving travelers.

For those interested in visiting Indawgyi, I recommend preparing physically for motorcycle riding and traveling in an area that remains highly natural. The journey may not be as comfortable as typical tourist cities, but the unique experiences you gain are worth every kilometer traveled.

Additionally, if you want to follow more stories and cultures of the Myanmar people, I recommend my other articles such asIndawgyiwhich will take you deep into the lake and the Shan people's way of life, or try reading about the journey inHakhaa small town full of charm in Kachin State.

Before we part, I want to say that Indawgyi is not just an ordinary lake or viewpoint but a window into the Red Shan community’s way of life and the well-preserved natural beauty. If anyone has the chance to visit here, I am confident you will fall in love just like mr.hotsia.

If you want to see the real atmosphere from my journey, please click to watch the videoIndawgyi Myanmar 37/46: Enchanted by Two Red Shan Sisters, Nong Mia Mya San and Pinang 4/4on YouTube