Dawei, Myanmar
Region: Tanintharyi Region
Geographic Coordinates: 14.083300, 98.200000
Temperature Range: 22.0°C to 25.0°C (72°F to 77°F)
Climate: Seasonal climate patterns in Dawei, Myanmar include a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Temperatures remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 31-34°C and lows ranging from 22-25°C.
Population: 139900
Language: Burmese
Dawei, Also known as Tavoy, Is a coastal city located in the southern part of Myanmar. It is the capital of Tanintharyi Region and has a population of around 150, 000 people. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century when it was part of the Mon Kingdom. Dawei was once an important trading port for both local and foreign merchants due to its strategic location on the Andaman Sea. One of Dawei’s most notable landmarks is its beautiful beach, Maungmagan Beach.
This stunning stretch of sand is popular among locals and tourists alike who come to enjoy its crystal clear waters and serene atmosphere. Visitors can also take part in various water activities such as snorkeling or diving to explore the colorful marine life. Another attraction in Dawei is Shwe Taung Zar Pagoda which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. This pagoda is one of the oldest and most revered religious sites in Myanmar with its origins dating back more than 1, 000 years ago during the Mon period.
Visitors can climb up to this pagoda for panoramic views over Dawei. Dawei also boasts several natural attractions such as Mount Victoria National Park which offers breathtaking views over lush forests and mountain ranges that are home to many endangered species including tigers, Elephants, Bears, And leopards. The park also features several hiking trails that lead visitors through dense jungles where they can witness exotic flora and fauna.
In addition to natural attractions, Dawei has many cultural sites worth visiting such as King Bayinnaung’s Palace which was built during his reign from 1551-1581 AD when he conquered parts of Thailand (then Siam) and Laos before establishing his capital at Pegu (now Bago). The palace showcases traditional Burmese architecture with intricate carvings adorning every corner. For those interested in local cuisine, Dawei offers a range of delicious dishes that are unique to the region. One must-try dish is Mohinga, A fish soup made with rice noodles and served with various condiments such as lime, Chili, And fried garlic.
Other popular dishes include Shan-style tofu salad and grilled seafood. Dawei is a city rich in history, Culture, And natural beauty that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Myanmar’s diverse heritage. From its stunning beaches to its ancient pagodas and lush forests, There is something for everyone in this charming coastal town. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Dawei has it all!
- Maungmagan Beach
- Shin Motehti Pagoda
- Dawei Market
- Nabule Beach
- San Maria Beach
- Taungthaman Lake
- Shwe Taung Zar Pagoda
- Myaw Yit Pagoda
- Payagyi Pagoda
- Nyaung Wee Island
- Agriculture
- Fishing
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Shipping
- Energy
The region is known for its:
- Fertile land
- Crops such as rubber, palm oil, sugarcane and fruits
With a long coastline, fishing is another important industry in Dawei. The area also has significant deposits of minerals such as:
- Tin
- Tungsten
- Antimony
There are several factories in the area that produce:
- Textiles
- Garments
- Food products
- Construction materials
The region has several beaches and natural attractions that attract tourists from around the world. Additionally, there is a deep-sea port in Dawei which is expected to become a major hub for shipping once it becomes fully operational. Plans are also underway to build a large-scale power plant near Dawei to provide electricity to the region as well as export power to neighboring countries like Thailand.
- The ancient city of Tavoy: Dawei was once known as Tavoy and was an important port city in the region. It was a center of trade between India, China, and Southeast Asia.
- British colonization: In the 19th century, Dawei became part of British Burma after the British East India Company annexed it in 1826.
- King Thibaw: King Thibaw was the last king of Burma before it was annexed by the British Empire in 1885. He was exiled to India along with his family and died there.
- Japanese occupation: During World War II, Dawei was occupied by Japan from 1942 to 1945.
- The Karen National Union (KNU): The KNU is a political organization that has been fighting for Karen independence since 1947. They have had a presence in Dawei since their inception.
- U Ottama: U Ottama was a prominent Buddhist monk who played an active role in Burma’s struggle for independence from Britain during the early part of the twentieth century.
- Than Tun: Than Tun was one of the founders of Burma’s Communist Party and played an important role in Burmese politics throughout much of his life.
- Tin Maung Win: Tin Maung Win is a famous Burmese writer who hails from Dawei and has written many books on Burmese history and culture over his long career.
- Dawei Deep Sea Port Project: In recent years, there has been controversy over plans to build a deep sea port near Dawei that would be one of Southeast Asia’s largest ports if completed as planned.
- Shwe Taung Zar Pagoda
- Dawei Art and Cultural Museum
- Dawei Market
- Maungmagan Beach
- Tanintharyi Nature Reserve
- Kyaukka Latt Pagoda
- Bawgyo Pagoda
- Shwe Thar Lyaung Buddha Statue
- Myaw Yit Pagoda
- Shin Motehti Pagoda
- Dawei Pagoda Festival is an annual cultural event celebrated in February or March. It features a parade of monks, traditional music and dance performances, food stalls, and carnival games.
- Thargaya Festival marks the end of Buddhist lent and is held in October or November. It involves offerings of food to monks, traditional ceremonies, and entertainment such as puppet shows.
- Kandawgyi Water Festival (Thingyan) takes place in April to mark the beginning of the Burmese New Year. People splash water on each other to wash away bad luck from the previous year.
- Myeik-Dawei Traditional Boat Race is an annual boat race that takes place between teams from Myeik and Dawei in September or October. The boats are decorated with colorful flags and paddled by rowers dressed in traditional costumes.
- Taungyi Tazaungdaing Festival celebrates Buddha’s enlightenment during full moon day in November with illuminated hot air balloons released into the sky at night.
- Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival takes place near Inle Lake but attracts visitors from all over Myanmar including Dawei due to its significance for Buddhists across Myanmar where four Buddha images are carried around on a royal barge for 18 days during October/November each year.
Traditional Myanmar Dishes
- Mohinga – a traditional breakfast dish made with fish broth, rice noodles, and various herbs and spices.
- Ohn no khao swe – a noodle soup dish with coconut milk and chicken or beef.
- Shan-style noodles – a type of rice noodle dish served with pork or chicken broth.
Popular Restaurants in Dawei, Myanmar
- San Myint Mo Restaurant – known for its seafood dishes such as grilled fish and prawn curry.
- Aung Thit Sar Restaurant – serves traditional Burmese dishes like mohinga and ohn no khao swe.
- Pho Kyar Elephant Restaurant – offers Thai cuisine as well as Burmese dishes like Shan-style noodles.
- Golden Star BBQ & Beer Garden – specializes in grilled meats such as pork ribs and chicken wings.
- 7 Sisters Cafe & Restaurant – serves both Western and Asian cuisine including burgers, pasta, fried rice, and curries.
- Maungmagan Beach Park
- Dawei National Park
- San Maria Beach
- Myaw Yit Pagoda Hill Park
- Dawei Public Swimming Pool and Sports Complex
- Dawei Botanical Garden and Nature Reserve
- Shwe Taung Waterfall
- Myoma Market (for shopping and local food)
- Thargaya Elephant Camp (for elephant riding)
- Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda (for sightseeing and meditation)
