Huge Burmese Salted Snakehead Fish at Indawgyi Lake, Kachin State

Huge Burmese salted snakehead fish at Indawgyi Lake, Kachin State

When it comes to unique travel experiences in Myanmar, for me, mr.hotsia, one of the most unforgettable memories is tastinga gigantic Burmese salted snakehead fishat Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State, a land that offers not only stunning nature but also the charm of local lifestyles and traditional cuisine perfectly combined.

Indawgyi Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia. I have written about this place in an articleIndawgyibefore, but this time I want to share a deeper story—my experience of the local lifestyle around the lake and the rare large salted snakehead fish that I could hardly believe with my own eyes.

Journey to Indawgyi Lake and the Beauty of Kachin State

Traveling to Indawgyi Lake is not easy for general tourists because it is located in the Mohnyin administrative area of Kachin State, a region with diverse ethnic groups, especially the Red Tai or Shan people and the Kachin who live in over 20 villages around the lake.
I, mr.hotsia, rented a motorcycle from the major town of Mohnyin and rode through winding dirt roads and natural paths, taking about 2-3 hours to reach the lake. The charm of this journey is seeing small villages that still maintain traditional lifestyles, large trees covering the area, and peaceful small rivers flowing through.

In this atmosphere, at Indawgyi Lake which is 13 kilometers wide and 24 kilometers long, I encountered diverse wildlife, especially many rare bird species flying over the water and surrounding forests. The tranquility and richness of nature have made this area a wildlife sanctuary since 1999, a highlight I have mentioned in previous articles.Kachin Statewhere I have traveled before

Huge Burmese Salted Snakehead Fish That Will Make You Say Wow!

What impressed me most from visiting Indawgyi Lake this time was tasting the salted snakehead fish made by the locals. The snakehead fish here is not the small type we are familiar with at home but a fish much larger than my hand, thick-bodied with dense meat, salty with the aroma of spices preserved in the traditional Burmese way.

I found this salted snakehead fish at a small market by the lake where locals sold fresh fish along with local vegetables and spices used together. It is a simple dish full of flavor and memories of the lakeside community.
Tasting salted snakehead fish with hot steamed rice by Indawgyi Lake is an unforgettable happiness, and I, mr.hotsia, want everyone to experience this atmosphere at least once.

Local Lifestyle and Culture Around the Lake

Besides food and nature, what makes traveling to Kachin State and Indawgyi Lake unique is experiencing the lifestyle of the Shan and Kachin people here.
I talked with many locals who mostly live simple lives, farming rice and vegetables, and small-scale fishing around the lake. Communication may not be easy as English is not widely spoken, but through gestures and smiles, I always felt warmth whenever I met them.
In some villages, traditional handicrafts are still made, and seasonal festivals are held that deeply express their connection to nature and this lake.

Travel Tips for Those Wanting to Experience Indawgyi

If you are planning a trip to Indawgyi Lake, prepare for a challenging journey full of the charm of nature and local culture.
Renting a motorcycle or hiring a car from Mohnyin town is the most convenient option, but be sure to check the vehicle condition and prepare dust and sun protection gear because the roads are not as comfortable as in big cities.
Don't forget to bring drinking water and snacks as shops or restaurants in the area are few and mostly serve local food.
Most importantly, respect and open your heart to learn about the local lifestyle. I, mr.hotsia, assure you will gain valuable experiences.

Follow More Travel Stories and Burmese Food

For those interested in my travel stories in Myanmar, such asFood in Bagan, Paganor the horse cart experience in Bagan atthis linkDon't forget to check them out because each place has its own charm and stories.
And if you want an in-depth story about Kachin State and the origin of the Irrawaddy River, try readingthis articlewhich will give you a clearer overview of this region.

Finally, I, mr.hotsia, invite everyone to experience the true beauty and flavors of Myanmar through Indawgyi Lake and the giant salted snakehead fish. This is another side of Myanmar that still preserves the raw and fresh nature and culture amazingly.

Watch my video atHuge Burmese Salted Snakehead Fish at Indawgyi Lake, Kachin Stateto see the real atmosphere and taste I mentioned.