Things To Do
in Sittwe
Sittwe is a coastal town located in the Rakhine State of Burma. It serves as an important port city along the Bay of Bengal. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnic groups living together.
Sittwe is known for its seafood and bustling marketplaces, as well as the nearby Mrauk U archaeological site.
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyaikhtiyo" - Thank you
- "Nehn hma kyi" - How are you?
- "Nya naing" - Goodbye
- "Pyan nar" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Sittwe waterfront, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as the sun rises. Stop by a local café for traditional Burmese tea and snacks.
Visit the Sittwe Port to see the bustling activity of boats and fishermen. Then, explore the nearby Sittwe Museum to learn about the local culture and history.
Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the beach, catching the beautiful sunset. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling regional dishes.
Head to the nearby Maungdaw mountain range for a morning hike, taking in the stunning natural scenery. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at a picturesque viewpoint.
Return to Sittwe and grab lunch at a local eatery, trying out traditional curries. Spend the afternoon visiting rural villages, observing local crafts and lifestyles.
Relax in a local park, enjoying the cool evening air. Visit a night market to sample street food and shop for handmade souvenirs.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of various ethnic influences
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and the nearby Arakan Mountains
- Growing tourism industry that provides opportunities for local businesses
- Access to unique local cuisine and traditional crafts
- Relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities
- Limited infrastructure and public services
- Challenges related to political stability and ethnic tensions
- Healthcare facilities may be insufficient for serious medical needs
- Frequent monsoons and vulnerability to natural disasters
- Limited employment opportunities in certain sectors
Best Activities in Sittwe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
To enjoy panoramic views of Sittwe and the surrounding area
Tours
Uncover the best of Sittwe with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sittwe
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
A picturesque waterfront area with opportunities for photography.
Scenic beach area providing stunning views for photography.
Food in Sittwe
Sittwe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Burmese dish consisting of rice noodles in a fish and lemongrass-based broth, garnished with cilantro, boiled egg, and crispy fritters. Best enjoyed at street stalls or local teahouses.
Must-Try!
A flavorful curry made with tender chunks of fish or prawns in a rich and aromatic sauce, typically served with steamed rice. Found in authentic Rakhine restaurants across Sittwe.
A popular sweet treat made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and jaggery, often wrapped in banana leaves. Look for vendors selling this delightful dessert in Sittwe's markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sittwe better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Sittwe Market to sample an array of freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices. The market also offers a variety of street food such as skewered meats, samosas, and fried snacks.
After dusk, head to the vibrant Strand Road Night Market for a lively street food experience. Indulge in grilled fish, spicy salads, and local snacks while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this popular food hub.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Sittwe is a city with a significant Buddhist population, so it's important to show respect for religious sites and customs. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering temples and pagodas, and refrain from any behavior that may be seen as disrespectful to Buddhist traditions.
In Sittwe, it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or in public areas. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and women may also consider covering their shoulders and knees out of respect for local customs.
In Burmese culture, showing kindness and humility is highly valued. Visitors to Sittwe should strive to be polite, patient, and respectful in their interactions with locals, and should also be mindful of their body language and gestures to ensure they are conveying a sense of respect and humility.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sittwe with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sittwe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Sittwe, Burma. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or other service industries. However, if someone wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, a small tip may be given, but it is not the norm.
In Sittwe, Burma, cash is the predominant form of payment. Credit and debit card acceptance is limited, and it's advisable to carry enough cash for daily expenses. Some larger hotels and restaurants catering to tourists may accept card payments, but it's always best to confirm beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sittwe.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
During the monsoon season, Sittwe experiences heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can disrupt travel and outdoor activities. However, the lush greenery and less crowded tourist attractions may appeal to some visitors.
This is considered the best time to visit Sittwe, as the weather is relatively drier and cooler. It's ideal for exploring the city and nearby attractions without the discomfort of extreme heat or rain.
The hot season in Sittwe can be quite intense, with high temperatures and humidity. Visitors may find it uncomfortable for outdoor activities, but it's still possible to explore the city if one can tolerate the heat.
Sittwe at Night
Hiking in Sittwe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic mountain near Sittwe offering hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mountain range near Sittwe known for its diverse flora and fauna, featuring several hiking trails.
A coastal hiking trail that runs along the beautiful beaches near Sittwe, combining hiking with stunning ocean views.
A popular local hiking destination offering a moderate challenge and rewarding vistas at the summit.
Located a bit farther from Sittwe, this area has a variety of trails suitable for a range of hiking experiences.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sittwe through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sittwe by plane.
The main airport serving Sittwe, located just a few kilometers from the city center.
The largest international airport in Myanmar, located in Yangon, approximately 300 miles from Sittwe.
Another major airport in Myanmar, located in Mandalay, about 400 miles from Sittwe.
The airport serving the capital city of Myanmar, Naypyidaw, located around 480 miles from Sittwe.
An airport serving Heho in the Shan State, approximately 500 miles from Sittwe, often used by travelers to reach Inle Lake.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Myanmar, comprising a significant part of the population in Sittwe.
A Muslim minority group that has faced persecution and is a notable demographic in Sittwe.
The indigenous ethnic group of Rakhine State, which includes Sittwe.
A smaller demographic community that has historical ties to the area.
A minority group in Sittwe, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape.
The Soul of Sittwe
Discover the essence of Sittwe through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Sittwe, with many local clubs and frequent matches played in the city.
A traditional sport in Myanmar, Sepak Takraw involves players using their feet, head, knees, and chest to pass a rattan ball over a net.
Martial arts, particularly Lethwei (Burmese bare-knuckle boxing), are practiced widely in Sittwe and are a significant part of local culture.
Volleyball is a common recreational activity in Sittwe, played both formally and informally in various settings.
Though less popular than football, cricket has a growing following in Sittwe, with local teams participating in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sittwe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Rakhine and Burmese cuisine heavily feature seafood and meats, several restaurants in Sittwe accommodate vegetarians and vegans, offering dishes prepared with fresh vegetables, tofu, and local spices.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find rice-based dishes, salads, and grilled seafood options that are typically gluten-free. Communicating dietary needs clearly when ordering can help ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sittwe with these cultural adventures.
