Lenya National Park

Lenya Overview

Lenya National Park, located in the southern Tanintharyi Region of Myanmar, is a remarkable protected area renowned for its biodiversity and lush tropical landscapes. The park spans an area of approximately 1,451 square miles (3,759 square kilometers), making it a vital conservation area in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

Positioned near the border with Thailand, the park is an essential part of Myanmar’s efforts to safeguard its natural heritage and serves as a haven for numerous species, some of which are endemic to the region.

The terrain of Lenya National Park is characterized by dense lowland tropical rainforests, rolling hills, and pristine rivers that meander through its verdant expanse. The park’s forests are primarily evergreen, with towering dipterocarp trees forming a lush canopy.

The undergrowth is rich with bamboo, ferns, and a variety of orchids that thrive in the humid environment. The park also features swamps and wetlands, which are crucial for supporting its diverse array of wildlife. The Lenya River and its tributaries add to the park’s beauty and ecological significance, creating vital water systems for the flora and fauna.

Lenya National Park is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including several globally threatened species. It is one of the last remaining strongholds for the critically endangered Myanmar snub-nosed monkey, which is endemic to the region.

Other key mammals include Malayan tapirs, Asian elephants, clouded leopards, and sun bears. The park’s birdlife is equally spectacular, with species like hornbills, the great argus pheasant, and the elusive Gurney’s pitta—a critically endangered bird—gracing its forests. The wetlands and rivers are also habitats for reptiles such as the reticulated python and various freshwater turtles.

Visitors to Lenya National Park are drawn by its untouched beauty and the chance to experience its rich biodiversity. Trekking through its dense forests offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching, while guided tours provide insight into the park’s unique ecosystems. Some adventurous visitors opt for river expeditions, exploring the waterways that weave through the park. The park is also culturally significant, as it is home to indigenous communities who have lived harmoniously with the environment for centuries. These communities often participate in ecotourism efforts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of their traditional practices and connection to the land.

Despite its immense ecological importance, Lenya National Park faces several conservation challenges. Illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and poaching threaten the park’s fragile ecosystems. Conservation efforts, however, are ongoing, with a focus on strengthening enforcement against illegal activities and fostering collaboration between the government, local communities, and international organizations. Successes in conservation include increased awareness and involvement of local populations in protecting the park’s resources, as well as initiatives to promote sustainable tourism.

Park Map

Lenya National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Lenya National Park is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of bird species that thrive in its lush and diverse habitats. The park’s avian population includes some of the most striking and rare species in Southeast Asia.

Great Hornbill
Known for its enormous casque and vivid plumage, the great hornbill is a symbol of the park’s avian diversity. Its loud calls resonate through the forest canopy.

Green Peafowl
A striking bird with iridescent green feathers, the green peafowl is as beautiful as it is elusive. These ground-dwelling birds are often seen near water sources.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
This smaller species of hornbill is known for its distinct pied coloration and sociable behavior. It is often seen in pairs or small groups.

Rufous-necked Hornbill
A rare and magnificent bird, the rufous-necked hornbill is characterized by its reddish neck and large, curved bill. It inhabits dense forests and is a treasured sight.

Crested Serpent Eagle
This medium-sized raptor is known for its piercing call and powerful build. It soars high above the forest, scanning for prey below.

White-bellied Sea Eagle
One of the largest birds of prey in the region, the white-bellied sea eagle is often seen near rivers and coastal areas, gracefully gliding in search of fish.

Blue-winged Pitta
A colorful and ground-dwelling bird, the blue-winged pitta is known for its vibrant plumage and melodious calls, often found in forested areas.

Oriental Darter
Also known as the snakebird, this species is often seen swimming with just its head above water. It hunts fish and is a common sight around water bodies.

Asian Fairy-bluebird
With its iridescent blue feathers, the Asian fairy-bluebird is a visual delight. It frequents the park’s forest edges and is known for its sweet song.

Scarlet Minivet
A brilliantly colored bird, the scarlet minivet is often seen in flocks, flitting through the treetops. Its striking red and black plumage makes it a favorite among bird watchers.

Lenya National Park, located in the stunning landscapes of Myanmar, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, showcasing the richness of Southeast Asia’s unique ecosystems. The park’s dense forests and rugged terrain are a haven for several iconic and rare species. Below are some of the more popular wildlife species found in the park:

Indochinese Tiger
A majestic predator, the Indochinese tiger prowls the forests of Lenya National Park. Known for its striking orange coat with black stripes, this elusive cat plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the park.

Asian Elephant
These gentle giants are frequently seen in the park. Asian elephants are smaller than their African counterparts but are equally impressive, with their significant cultural and ecological importance.

Clouded Leopard
With its distinctive cloud-like spots, the clouded leopard is an arboreal and nocturnal hunter. It is a rare sight, adding to its enigmatic charm within Lenya’s forested landscapes.

Malayan Sun Bear
The smallest bear species, the Malayan sun bear, is easily recognizable by the crescent-shaped patch of fur on its chest. It is an adept climber and spends much of its time in the trees.

Gaur
Known as the Indian bison, the gaur is the largest bovine species. These powerful herbivores are a vital part of the park’s ecosystem and are often seen grazing in the park’s clearings.

Leopard Cat
A small and agile wild cat, the leopard cat thrives in the dense undergrowth of the park. Its spotted coat provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat.

Banteng
This wild cattle species is admired for its muscular build and striking appearance. Banteng are social animals, often seen grazing in herds.

Sambar Deer
Sambar deer are the largest deer species in the region. With their large, rugged antlers, they are a common sight in the park’s open spaces.

Asian Golden Cat
This medium-sized wild cat has a beautiful coat that varies in color, from reddish-brown to gray. It is a secretive and solitary animal, adding to its mysterious allure.

Fishing Cat
True to its name, the fishing cat is a skilled swimmer and hunter of fish. This medium-sized feline is adapted to wetlands, making it a unique predator in the park.