Inlay Lake Wetland Sanctuary, Protected wetland sanctuary in Nyaungshwe Township, Myanmar.
Inlay Lake Wetland Sanctuary is a protected area that spans a large expanse and contains diverse landscapes, ranging from flat wetlands to higher forest zones. These different environments provide habitats for a wide range of plants and animals.
This area was established as a protected zone in 1985 by the Myanmar Forest Department to safeguard migratory birds and their habitats in Shan State. The designation helped secure one of Myanmar's key bird migration sites.
Local communities practice traditional fishing in designated zones, while cultivating vegetables on floating gardens that sit directly on the water.
The easiest access is via Heho Airport, which sits about an hour's drive away, with plenty of lodging options available in the nearby town of Nyaungshwe. It is best to visit during the dry season when paths are accessible and bird watching is more rewarding.
The sanctuary hosts roughly 255 bird species and over 180 orchid varieties, also serving as a potential nesting ground for the endangered sarus crane. This combination makes it a draw for nature lovers seeking to encounter rare birds and plants.
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