The Mandalay Region’s Irrawaddy Dolphin Conservation Area is experiencing a surge in domestic visitors, according to U Maung Maung Lay, Chairman of the Department of Fisheries’ Irrawaddy Dolphin Conservation Group. Tourists are flocking to witness the unique collaboration between local fishermen and dolphins during the Ayeyarwaddy River’s high water season.

This period offers two key advantages: abundant food sources for the dolphins due to high water levels and easier viewing of the traditional net-fishing practices where dolphins assist fishermen. As U Maung Maung Lay explains, “The high water brings plentiful food for the Irrawaddy dolphins, making it the prime time to see the largest gatherings in the Mandalay-Kyaukmyaung region. This attracts travellers to Indaung village, where dolphin sightings are commonplace. In May alone, we estimated around 300 visitors daily”.

The appeal extends beyond Indaung. Travellers are also drawn to Ayekyun village in Mandalay Region’s Madaya Township, where community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives are flourishing. Here, visitors can observe the daily spectacle of Irrawaddy dolphins grazing in the Ayeyawady River. — ASH/MKKS

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