Things To Do
in Pauktaw

Pauktaw is a picturesque town located in Rakhine State, Burma, known for its serene landscapes and vibrant culture. Nestled near the eastern shore of the Bay of Bengal, it offers stunning views of the water and lush greenery. The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Mrauk U, famed for its ancient temples and historical significance.

Visitors can experience the warmth of local communities and partake in unique cultural traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Mrauk U, a short boat ride from Pauktaw, where you can explore the unique architecture and learn about the history of Buddhism in the region.

afternoon
:

Head back to Pauktaw and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, then visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handicrafts.

evening
:

Wind down with a sunset view by the beach, followed by dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and local dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Immerse in Nature
morning
:

Take an early morning boat tour along the coast to witness the local fishing practices and enjoy the tranquility of the Bay of Bengal.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby fishing villages to understand the local way of life, and enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies.

evening
:

Return to Pauktaw for a cultural performance or traditional music night, giving you an insight into the local arts and customs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Local Meal$2-5
Coffee$1-2
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$15-30
🛍️Souvenirs$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Friendly and welcoming local communities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier may be challenging.
  • Transportation can be difficult in remote areas.
  • "မင်္ဂလာပါ" - Hello
  • "ကျေးဇူးတင်ပါတယ်" - Thank you
  • "ဘာလဲ" - What is this?
  • "ဘယ်ရောက်လဲ" - Where is it?
  • "အကောင်းဆုံး" - Best wishes

Places to Visit in Pauktaw

Visit one of these nice places.

Mrauk U Temples

The ancient temples provide a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Pauktaw Beach

A serene beach ideal for capturing sunsets over the Bay of Bengal.

Local Villages

The vibrant colors and traditional architecture of nearby fishing villages make for captivating photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pauktaw

Pauktaw offers a delightful blend of flavors that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Rakhine State. Local cuisine is heavily influenced by the availability of fresh seafood and local spices, creating a unique culinary experience.

Pauktaw Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A traditional fish soup served with rice noodles and herbs, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Rakhine Curry

Spicy and aromatic curry made with fresh fish or meat, accompanied by rice.

Tea Leaf Salad

A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves, mixed with nuts, peas, and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pauktaw Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handicrafts.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offer snacks like samosas, fried bananas, and local sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pauktaw experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by three main seasons: a cool dry season from November to February, a hot dry season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. Temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to over 35°C (95°F) in summer. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, particularly in July and August, while the dry months provide pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, particularly when visiting sacred sites.

Respect Local Customs

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pauktaw is generally considered safe for tourists, although it is advisable to stay vigilant in crowded places. Travelers should avoid political demonstrations and be mindful of their surroundings. Basic safety precautions, such as securing valuables and not traveling alone at night, are recommended.

Tipping in Pauktaw

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, and leaving small amounts (5-10%) in restaurants is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is the preferred payment method; ATMs are available but may charge high fees.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cool and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March to May)

Hot temperatures can make outdoor exploration challenging; early mornings are best.

Monsoon (June to October)

Expect heavy rainfall, making some areas less accessible; however, the lush landscapes are beautiful.

Festival Season

Various local festivals occur throughout the year, showcasing unique customs and celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Pauktaw at Night

The nightlife in Pauktaw is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and restaurants offering evening entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live music performances at certain venues and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it an ideal setting for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Pauktaw

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mrauk U Hill Trail

A moderate hike offering breathtaking views of Mrauk U’s temples and the surrounding landscape.

Kyein Daung Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.

Airports

How to reach Pauktaw by plane.

Sittwe Airport

The nearest airport, located about 2 hours away by road. It serves domestic flights and is the main entry point for travelers heading to Pauktaw.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pauktaw is relatively walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and markets located within walking distance of each other. The town's flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and walking allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local culture. However, be mindful of uneven sidewalks and occasional traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rakhine Ethnic Group

The indigenous people of Rakhine State, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.

Burmese Migrants

People from other parts of Burma who have moved to Pauktaw for work, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Widely played and cherished by locals, with matches often held in community fields.

Sepak Takraw

A popular traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball and using feet, head, knees, and chest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pauktaw is generally light, with most transportation consisting of motorcycles, bicycles, and local taxis. Public transportation options are limited, and many visitors prefer to walk or hire local guides for excursions. Roads may be less maintained in rural areas, so caution is advised.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pauktaw.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Pauktaw are limited, with basic services available at local clinics. For serious medical emergencies, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Sittwe for better healthcare access. Travelers should carry a basic first-aid kit and consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Burma

Read more in our Burma 2025 Travel Guide.

Burma Travel Guide