Myeik, Myanmar
Region: Tanintharyi Region
Geographic Coordinates: 12.433300, 98.600000
Temperature Range: 23.0°C to 33.0°C (73°F to 91°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
Population: 284498
Language: Burmese
Myeik, Previously known as Mergui, Is a charming coastal town located in the southernmost part of Myanmar. It sits on an island in the Andaman Sea and is surrounded by over 800 beautiful islands. The town has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when it was an important trading port for Europeans and Asian merchants. One of the most fascinating aspects of Myeik is its diverse mix of cultures.
The town has been influenced by various ethnic groups such as Burmese, Thai, Malay, Indian and Chinese who have all left their mark on its architecture, Cuisine and traditions. Visitors can see this cultural diversity reflected in colorful markets where vendors sell everything from fresh seafood to traditional handicrafts. The main attraction of Myeik is undoubtedly its stunning archipelago which consists of hundreds of islands with pristine beaches, Crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Many visitors come to explore these islands by boat or kayak and take part in activities such as snorkeling or diving to discover the vibrant coral reefs that surround them. Another highlight of Myeik is its rich culinary scene which offers a unique blend of flavors from different cultures. Visitors can sample local dishes such as Mohinga (rice noodle soup), Ohn No Khauk Swe (coconut chicken noodles) or seafood delicacies like grilled fish or prawns served with spicy dipping sauces.
For those interested in history and culture, Myeik has several notable landmarks including ancient pagodas like Shwe Thaung Pagoda which dates back to the 16th century when it was built by King Bayinnaung. There are also colonial-era buildings that reflect the town’s past under British rule. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Myeik also offers visitors a chance to experience traditional festivals such as Thingyan (water festival) or Tazaungdaing (festival of lights) which are celebrated with great enthusiasm in the town.
Overall, Myeik is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, History and natural beauty. With its stunning archipelago, Delicious cuisine and rich cultural heritage, It is no wonder that more and more travelers are discovering this hidden gem in Myanmar.
- Shwethalyaung Pagoda
- Myeik Archipelago
- Kyal Laik Hill
- Dawei Beach
- Tanintharyi Nature Reserve
- Myeik Jetty
- Thein Daw Gyi Pagoda
- Mergui Archipelago
- Kyauk Phyar Gyi Temple
- Lone Tree Island
- The major industries and businesses in Myeik, Myanmar are:
- Fishing
- Seafood processing
- Agriculture (especially rubber and palm oil)
- Tourism
- Small-scale manufacturing
- The city is known for its high-quality seafood products such as:
- Lobster
- Crab
- Prawn
- Fish
- There are also some small-scale factories producing:
- Textiles
- Wood products
- Construction materials
- In recent years, tourism has been growing in the area due to the beautiful islands nearby such as the Mergui Archipelago.
- The city of Myeik was once a major trading port during the ancient Pyu era, serving as a gateway to the Indian Ocean.
- During the 16th century, Myeik was under the control of the powerful Ayutthaya Kingdom in Thailand.
- In 1824, British forces captured Myeik during the First Anglo-Burmese War.
- Local leaders and activists from Myeik played an important role in Myanmar’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
- U Ottama, a prominent monk and political activist involved in Myanmar’s independence movement, spent time studying and teaching at monasteries in Myeik.
- For centuries, pearl diving has been an important source of income for local communities around Myeik.
- Environmental damage caused by offshore oil drilling projects near Myeik and other coastal areas of Myanmar has raised concerns in recent years.
- Notable people associated with or from Myeik include U Ba Than Gyi (a writer and politician), Daw Khin Kyi (mother of Aung San Suu Kyi), and U Thant (former Secretary-General of the United Nations).
- Shwe Thaung Yan Pagoda
- Myeik Archipelago
- Myeik Public Market
- Seik Nge Jetty
- Thein Daw Gyi Pagoda
- Kyal Laik Island Beaches
- Than Lwin Bridge
- Mergui Archipelago Heritage Museum
- Kyauk Phyar Cave Temple
- Dawei-Kawthaung Road
- Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Myeik, Myanmar.
- There are a few local clubs that participate in regional tournaments:
- Myeik United FC, founded in 2010
- Currently playing in Myanmar National League (MNL), the top professional league for football in Myanmar
- Myeik City FC, which competes in regional leagues and tournaments
- Mawlamyine University FC, a university-based team from nearby Mawlamyine that has participated in various competitions
- Sports culture isn’t well-developed or widely supported throughout Myanmar due to political instability and economic challenges that the country faces.
- Despite these obstacles, there are still many dedicated athletes and fans who continue to pursue their passions.
- Myeik Boat Race Festival: This annual festival takes place in November and showcases traditional boat races on the river.
- Kason Festival: Celebrated in May, this Buddhist festival involves pouring water over Buddha statues to symbolize purification.
- Thadingyut Festival: Also known as the Festival of Lights, this October celebration marks the end of Buddhist Lent and features candle and lantern lighting to honor Buddha.
- Thingyan Water Festival: Held across Myanmar every April, this festival involves splashing or spraying water on others as a way of washing away sins from the previous year.
- Independence Day Celebration: On January 4th, Myanmar’s Independence Day is commemorated with parades, cultural performances, and other festivities throughout Myeik.
- Chinlone Tournament: Throughout the year in Myeik, tournaments are held for Chinlone – a traditional Burmese sport where players kick a woven ball without using their hands or arms.
- Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival: This annual September/October event at Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda on Inle Lake near Myeik features boat processions carrying sacred images around the lake for several days.
- Myeik Seafood Market – a bustling market where you can find fresh seafood cooked to order.
- Shwe Ngar Restaurant – known for its delicious seafood dishes and traditional Burmese cuisine.
- Aung Mingalar Shan Noodle Shop – famous for its Shan noodles, a traditional dish made with rice noodles, pork or chicken, and vegetables.
- Kyeintali Street Food Market – a street food market where you can try various local snacks such as samosas, fried fish cakes, and grilled meats.
- Hnin Si Gone Restaurant – serves authentic Burmese dishes such as mohinga (fish soup), curry dishes, and salads.
- Shwe Hin Tha Restaurant – specializes in grilled fish and other seafood dishes.
- Ko San Road Cafe & Restaurant – offers both Western-style food and traditional Burmese dishes like tea leaf salad and curries.
- Thein Phyu Phyu Mon Seafood Restaurant – another great spot for fresh seafood cooked to order in a variety of styles including steamed, fried or grilled.
- Myeik Archipelago National Park is a stunning national park that consists of 800 islands and boasts an array of marine life, such as coral reefs, sea turtles, and dolphins.
- Dawei-Kawthaung National Park is situated in the Tanintharyi Region of Myanmar and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.
- Myeik Waterfall is a popular spot for picnicking and swimming located approximately 10 km from the city center.
- Shwe Thaung Yan Beach is an exquisite beach with crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Bo Cho Island can be reached by boat from Myeik in about 45 minutes; it presents pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Moken Village Tours offer visitors the chance to visit traditional sea gypsy villages near Myeik to learn about their unique culture and way of life.
- Kayaking Tours are available for nature lovers who wish to explore mangrove forests in the surrounding area with a guide.
- Several dive centers in town offer Scuba Diving Trips where you can explore the diverse underwater world around Myeik Archipelago.
