Sittwe

Sittwe is the capital of Rakhine State. It is situated at South West of Myanmar at Rakhine Coast. It has a long coasting bordering on the Bay of Bengal. There is a view point to be enjoy along the coast. Culture and traditional heritage and colourful Rakhine races are filled in Sittwe. Regular flights from Yangon to Sittwe takes about 30 minutes. It is also the gate way to Mrauk U, an ancient city of Rakhine Kings. 2 or 3 stars hotels are there.

Mrauk U

One of the best archaeological site as attraction is situated in Rakhine State, on the South-Western part of Myanmar. The ancient capital founded by Rakhine King Minsawmon in 1433 AD. Mrauk U period flourished between 15th century and 18th century. The city is 80 km from the north of Sittwe, port city once known as the Golden Gate by the west. Mrauk U can reach from Sittwe through a very pleasant river journey about 4 hours. The early 17th century was Rakhine's Golden Age for it's trading with western countries such as Holland, Spain, Portugal, Maldives, Italy and south India.

The temples and Pagodas are strategically located on the hilltops and look like fortresses. There are many countless Images spreading all over with some are in ruins and influenced by Indian culture and civilization.Shitthaung Pagoda, Kothaung Pagoda, Anndawthein, Laungbonpyauk, Dukkhanthein, and Pitaakataik are famous ancient Temples with countless stupas. About 8km from Mrauk-U is Ve'Sali, an archeological zone from 4th century. This ancient city is earlier than Mrauk-U period. Ve'Sali was succeeded by a series of small cities although Mrauk-U remained. 2 or 3 stars hotels are there.

Chin Villages, Mindat, Kanpatlat and Mt. Victoria

The Chin live in the Northwest border areas or further south in the Rakhine State. Mt.Victoria of 3400 meter high is the perfect place for nature lovers. Soft trekking, butterfly and bird watching are available. Some of the women there tattoo their faces completely in tasteful designs. The ritual is entirely voluntary and as the practice is dying out, not many young women are seen with tattooed faces. But the old traditional of this tattooing face still can be seen in some villages. Their hand woven cotton and silk in traditional designs and colors are collectors' items. 174 km from Bagan by jeep and roads are still very bad so this excursion is not recommended for rainy season (May to Oct). As for accommodations, only very simple guesthouses are available so this excursion is suitable only for the adventurous clients.