Experience the wilderness: Five Fascinating Destinations in Myanmar

It won’t be exaggeration if you call Myanmar a land of rare treasures. Whether you’re a history buff or someone who wants to experience spirituality in its true sense, Myanmar won’t disappoint you. Another aspect that makes holiday packages to this Southeast Asian nation sell like hot cakes is its exotic wildlife. Myanmar travel agency features many acclaimed wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, which harbor some of the rarest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet. And the good news is that most of these wildlife destinations offer lodging facilities. Here, we have compiled a list of five highly popular national parks in Myanmar. 

Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park

Near Mingin Township in the Sagaing division, Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park boasts a large population of Asian elephants. The giant creatures can be seen roaming around the park in large herds. Other endangered animals you can spot here include the elusive clouded leopards, civets, Burmese brow-antlered deer, and giant monitor lizard. If you’re a shutterbug or a birding enthusiast, this park is definitely a place for you. Apart from stunning landscapes, you have opportunity to shot a variety of native and migrated birds. 

Khakaborazi National Park

Far from the chaotic city life, this park consists of the scenic pine and deciduous forests, shimmering streams and waterfalls, and snow-clad mountain peaks. Thousands visit here to explore the region’s unique mountainous biodiversity and an enchanting wildlife including the rare black orchids. The park is also famous for its trekking opportunities. It serves as a base camp for climbers who aim at scaling the majestic peaks of Kakaborazi Mountain. 

Hlawga National Park

Hlawaga National Park, nearly 35kms north of Yangon, is a big hit with families and eco-tourists alike. Apart from an enthralling array of flora & fauna, the park offers various fun-filled activities such as elephant ride, trekking, rock climbing and boating. It surely is an ideal destination for those who want to go on a wildlife holiday with kids. Here, you can see as many as 21 different species of mammals, 8 reptile species, and 145 bird species. There is also a min-zoo featuring tigers, leopards, bears, crocodiles and more. 

Lenya National Park

This national park is famous particularly for its large popular of endangered Gurney’s Pitta. Once on the verge of extinction, this pretty bird is seen here quite commonly, and is favourite among birders and photographers alike. The lush green forests also harbor many tigers, elephants, and tapir. Situated in the Tanintharyi Region, Lenya National Park is certainly a must-visit. 

Chatthin Wildlife Sanctuary

With a land area of 103.55 square miles, Chatthin Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place to see exotic wildlife in action. The park is located in Sagaing division, and is home to many endangered species of birds, animals and reptiles. Other than the native Cervus eldi Thamin, there are barking deer, wild boar, wild dog, leopard, and cat species you can spot in the sanctuary. Its low indaing forests and grassy plains allow better visibility. Birding enthusiasts are in for a treat too, as the park is home to over 158 species of birds.