SITTWE 3: Sittwe, Rakhine State, Myanmar

Sittwe, the ancient port city of Rakhine State, Myanmar

If you ask mr.hotsia where in Myanmar still carries the raw charm and allure of a coastal port city largely untouched, Sittwe is the answer I want everyone to experience for themselves. Sittwe is the main city of Rakhine State, located in western Myanmar along the Andaman Sea coast, where the Rakhine River flows into the sea. This place is a gateway to the sea and was an important trade route in the past.

I, mr.hotsia, traveled to Sittwe with the intention of experiencing the local lifestyle and exploring the riverside fresh market. This place is clearly different from other tourist cities in Myanmar. Sittwe still maintains a simple vibrancy and a rich cultural diversity blending Rakhine, Muslim, and Burmese communities living harmoniously together.

Walking the Sittwe Riverside Market: A Paradise for Seafood and Culture Lovers

For mr.hotsia, the first thing to do when visiting Sittwe is to walk through the riverside market. This market not only offers fresh seafood like fish, shrimp, mantis shrimp, crab, fresh coconut, and local vegetables but also represents the strong food culture and trade of the Rakhine people. Various products are neatly arranged with vibrant colors amid the rhythmic sounds of bargaining and conversation.

I, mr.hotsia, was impressed to see traditional food preparation methods such as fermenting fish paste and making spicy coconut milk curry, which is distinctly different from what I have tasted in central Myanmar. If you come here, don’t forget to try Hilsa fish, a famous fish in this region deeply connected to the trade history between Bangladesh and Myanmar (for those interested, check out the videoDeep Dive Bangladesh EP 52)

Riverside Life Experience and Journey to Sittwe

Traveling to Sittwe is not as easy as to major tourist cities in Myanmar. I chose to travel by boat from other cities along the Irrawaddy River and also by land where some roads are still dirt and dusty. Be sure to bring a good face mask. These challenges make the journey more meaningful and memorable.

Sittwe is located not far from Kachin State, where I previously visited the source of the Irrawaddy River at Myitsone, the confluence of the Mali and Mekha rivers (read moreKachin State). Seeing both the source and mouth of the Irrawaddy River flowing through Sittwe helps provide a comprehensive view of the ecosystem and culture deeply connected throughout Myanmar.

Local Food in Sittwe: Unique Flavors

I, mr.hotsia, must say the food in Sittwe is outstanding due to the blend of flavors and ingredients from both the sea and mountains. My favorite dish is curry with fresh fish and bold spices, similar to flavors found in Rakhine State, with some dishes resembling coastal cuisine from Bangladesh.

There are also small local roadside eateries I recommend trying, offering traditional snacks and delicious drinks. Although not a popular tourist city, Sittwe’s food scene definitely stands out.

Lifestyle and Culture That Remain Authentic

What impressed me, mr.hotsia, most is the lifestyle of the people in Sittwe, which remains simple and closely tied to nature and the river. Whether it’s traditional fishing methods, using small wooden boats as main transportation, or local festivals that are well preserved.

Talking with locals and seeing the local market made me feel that Sittwe is a city that still holds the heart and spirit of Myanmar in its true form, unlike tourist cities focused only on convenience or modernity.

Conclusion: Sittwe, a City Waiting for You to Discover

If you are looking for a unique destination in Myanmar, Sittwe is the answer that mr.hotsia can confirm is worth the trip. Whether it’s experiencing coastal life, walking through a colorful fresh market, or tasting rich local cuisine, Sittwe is also a fascinating cultural and natural connection point.

For those who love deep nature and cultural travel, I recommend planning a trip here and if you have time, continue to nearby cities likeKachin Stateor experience the ecologically important Indawgyi Lake atIndawgyias well.

Finally, mr.hotsia would like to share a video I filmed while in Sittwe to give you a real sense of the atmosphere and appeal of this city.
SITTWE 3: Sittwe, Rakhine State, Myanmar