It also is the capital of Rakhine (Arakan) State and one of Myanmar’s most strategic development hotspots. The town itself has limited attractions to explore, though the lively morning fish market displays a variety of catch not found elsewhere (sharks, sting rays, eels) and the evening’s play of the sun colors the waterfront beautiful shades of dusk. The British founded the city in 1826 to expedite trade between India and the Orient, and Sittwe’s population is made up of approximately a quarter of Indian Muslims. Sittwe is the main transit point for explorers on their way to Mrauk U.
