This is the making of Red Thai Mango Sticky Rice at Indawgyi Lake, Kachin State, Myanmar (Indawgyi Lake Kachin)

Boat trip making mango sticky rice by Indawgyi Lake, Kachin State, Myanmar

When mr.hotsia had the opportunity to travel toIndawgyi Lake(Indawgyi Lake) in Kachin State, Myanmar, one impressive experience worth sharing was making traditional “Red Thai” mango sticky rice amidst the peaceful and beautiful natural atmosphere of the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

Indawgyi Lake, located in the Mohnyin administrative area of Kachin State, is approximately 13 kilometers wide and 24 kilometers long. Surrounding the lake are villages of various ethnic groups, especially the Red Thai and Shan people, who still firmly maintain their traditional agricultural lifestyle. Here, mr.hotsia saw locals preparing ancient-style mango sticky rice using a native mango variety called “Red Thai,” known for its unique sweet taste and fragrant aroma unlike mangoes found in major cities.

For mr.hotsia, making mango sticky rice here is not just a dessert but a small ritual connected to the culture and way of life of the villagers. I collaborated with a Red Thai local named “Tinsaou,” a Shan-descended Myanmar woman. She explained that sticky rice is steamed using a traditional charcoal stove along with fresh coconut milk made from local coconuts, rich in sweet creaminess that perfectly complements the flavor of Red Thai mangoes.

Besides tasting exquisite mango sticky rice, mr.hotsia also witnessed the simple lifestyle of lakeside villagers at Indawgyi Lake, who still use wooden boats to fish and farm around the lake area, which is a wildlife sanctuary protecting many rare species of animals and water birds. Traveling and experiencing this atmosphere gave me a deep understanding of the relationship between people and nature here.

Travel and Lifestyle by Indawgyi Lake

Traveling to Indawgyi Lake is not easy, but for mr.hotsia, renting a motorcycle from Mohnyin town was the most convenient and enjoyable option. The distance from Mohnyin to the lake is about 50 kilometers, with rough roads passing small villages where I stopped to observe the lifestyles of Kachin and Red Thai people along the way.

Upon arrival at the lake, I chose to stay at a small guesthouse by the water, which offered the chance to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the wide water surface and was also a great spot for birdwatching hornbills and various rare waterbird species. Most locals here practice sustainable agriculture and fishing, cooperating with government agencies to manage natural resources and maintain ecological balance.

Tasting Local Food and Red Thai Desserts by the Lake

Besides the highlight mango sticky rice, mr.hotsia also sampled local dishes of the Red Thai and Shan people here. Most dishes focus on fresh ingredients from the lake and forest, such as grilled river fish with herbs, chicken curry with ginger, and homemade sour pickled vegetables from local produce. Especially the chicken curry, which is spicy yet mellow, became a dish mr.hotsia had to ask for extra rice every meal.

The Red Thai mango sticky rice dessert here has a mango aroma distinct from what I have tasted in Bangkok or other provinces. The sticky rice is perfectly soft and chewy, not overly sweet, completing the experience of that day perfectly.

Connecting to Travel in Kachin State

If you are interested in deeply learning about the lifestyle and nature of Kachin State, mr.hotsia recommends reading the articleExploring the Source of the Irrawaddy River, Mitgina, Kachin Statewhich helps to better understand the geography and history of this area, including suitable travel routes for adventurous travelers who enjoy challenges.

After experiencing the tranquility and delicious food by Indawgyi Lake, mr.hotsia believes you will fall in love with the natural beauty and Red Thai culture in Kachin State just as much. Don’t forget to capture photos and stories as precious memories on your Myanmar travel journey.

For those who want to watch mr.hotsia’s video experience making Red Thai mango sticky rice by Indawgyi Lake, you can watch it hereThis is the making of Red Thai Mango Sticky Rice at Indawgyi Lake, Kachin State, Myanmarto see real images and atmosphere from the field that mr.hotsia experienced.