Inle lake is located in Naung Shwe, Pinlaung and Peh Kon townships of southern Shan state. Elevation of the lake water is over 2900 feet (884 meters) above sea level. The wetland area including the lake is about 642.32 square miles. It was established in 1985.
Access
Yangon to Nyaung Shwe, 430 miles (688 km) by car. Yangon to Heho, 335 miles (536 km) by air way and Heho to Nyaung Shwe, 14 miles (22.4 km) by car. Yangon via Thazi to Shwe Nyaung, 320 miles (512 km) by train and Shwe Nyaung to Nyaung Shwe, 10 miles (16 km) by car.
Objective
To conserve and protect natual vegetation, wetland birds and fresh water fishes in Inlay sanctuary. To conserve geological features and scenic beauty of mountain areas. To conserved Inlay watershed and maintain water resource for Law-Pi-Ta hydroelectric power plant. To conserve and educate the local people in traditional floating agriculture practised by "In" lake-dwellers. To upgrade the Sanctuary so as to promote ecotourism.
Forest / vegetation types
Oryza granulate, Dalbergia spinosa, Hypericum prunizolium, Coladium spp., Desmodium oblongum, Enhydra zluctuans, Panicum sarmentosum grow on the natural floating islets. Salix tetrasperma, Ficus spp. Crataexa nurvala, Mitragyna parvizolia, Salmalia malabarica syn., Bombax malabaricum are found in shallow water or on the shores.
Wildlife
Wildlife said to be existing includes 37 species of birds, 27 species of wetland birds, 14 species of migratory birds, 40 species of freshwater fishes, otter and turtle.
Conservation, development and research programmes
Protection of land and wetland birds and conservation of their natural habitat and refuge. Construction of bird watch-towers. Cooperation with Inlay watershed conservation programme. Implementation of environment conservation and research.
Opportunities for study and recreation
Observation of world renowned wetland ecosystem 2950 feet above sea level. Observation and enjoyment of scenic beauty of the Shan plateau. Observation and reseatch on various types of birds. Observation and of endemic fish species such as Ngapweh (Chaudhuria caudata) and Ngaku-Shinpa (Silurus bumanensis). Observation of traditional agriculture practised by lake dwellers. |
