Among various tourism services, land and coastal leisure travel has become increasingly popular with both domestic and international visitors. In Myanmar, the Wah Ale Island, located within the Lampi Marine National Park, has been attracting more European tourists than local visitors. As the tourism season comes to an end, tourist arrivals are expected to conclude by mid-May.The Lampi Marine National Park, situated in the Myeik Archipelago in Taninthayi Region with more than 800 islands, is globally recognized as a park that supports the survival of amphibians and marine research, and a recreational site for the local and foreign visitors for its stunning sea views. Due to its rich flora and fauna, including rare species, it is considered highly valuable for research.Foreign tourists visit the Wah Ale Resort through bookings every year to do a variety of activities, such as scuba diving to observe coral reefs, kayaking through mangrove forests and coastal caves, studying and documenting seagrass and rare marine species, swimming within the park, enjoying sunset views, walking along sandy beaches, and learning about the lifestyle of the local Moken (Salon) ethnic group. Visitors also explore the island’s forests to study biodiversity, wildlife, medicinal plants, and rare species of birds, butterflies, and orchids.“Most foreign visitors come to the Wah Ale Island based on their research interests. They are especially drawn to the natural beauty of the sea, marine ecosystems, forests, rare species, fish and shrimp breeding areas in mangrove forests, and coral reefs. Many are particularly interested in closely studying forest ecosystems. The eco-friendly accommodation and transport services also appeal to them. As the travel season is ending this month, all pre-booked visitors will have completed their trips by mid-May. The Lampi Marine National Park and Wah Ale Resort also contribute significantly to the Blue Economy,” said U Kyi Oo, warden of the park.The Lampi Island was recognized as a marine national park on 28 February 1996 and as an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2013. The Wah Ale Resort within the Lampi Marine National Park, which is the most visited site by European tourists, will see the end of its tourism season by mid-May. The park continues to attract more international than domestic tourists and stands as a proud national marine reserve that supports the country’s tourism sector. — Thitsa (MNA)/KTZHgnlm
Tue, 5-May-2026