List of Lakes in Myanmar

Myanmar’s lakes shape local climates, feed rivers and farms, and support communities from lowland deltas to upland reservoirs. Whether natural or man-made, they reflect the country’s varied terrain and are important for fishing, irrigation and wildlife.

There are 22 Lakes in Myanmar, ranging from Hlawga Lake to Yezin Dam. For each entry the list shows Region (State/Region),Area (km2),Type & brief notes (max 15 words); you’ll find these details below.

Which lakes are best for birdwatching or wildlife viewing?

Several shallow floodplain lakes and reservoirs near wetlands attract migratory birds—look for larger seasonal lakes and those with intact reedbeds or nearby forest; local guides or community groups can point you to prime spots and seasonal peaks.

How reliable are the area figures and what causes variation?

Area measurements come from surveys and satellite data but can vary with seasons, water management and survey methods; use the figures as estimates and check recent local reports for projects or seasonal changes.

Lakes in Myanmar

Images and Descriptions

Indawgyi Lake

Indawgyi Lake sits in northern Myanmar and is one of the country’s largest inland lakes. It forms a rich wildlife sanctuary and holds many fish and bird species. It attracts researchers and birdwatchers for its high biodiversity. It appears on lists of notable Myanmar lakes for ecology and remote scenery.

Inle Lake

Inle Lake lies in southern Shan State and hosts floating gardens and stilt villages. Local fishermen use one-leg rowing and sell produce from boats. The lake is a top tourist site for culture, boat trips, and markets. It ranks among Myanmar’s most famous lakes.

Thapanseik Reservoir

Thapanseik Reservoir serves irrigation and local water needs in central Myanmar. It is a man-made reservoir created by damming a river. The site supports fisheries and nearby farming communities. It fits the list as a major working water body rather than a natural lake.

Ngamoeyeik Reservoir

Ngamoeyeik Reservoir sits near the Yangon area and stores water for local use. It functions as a utility reservoir and supports small-scale fishing. People visit for local recreation and bird sightings. The reservoir is included as an important urban water feature.

Paunglaung Reservoir

Paunglaung Reservoir forms behind a large hydro dam on a central river. It provides irrigation and power and creates scenic waterways. Boats and riverside villages appear along its shores. The reservoir is notable for infrastructure and landscape change.

Moeyungyi Wetland

Moeyungyi Wetland lies in lower central Myanmar and acts as a seasonal wetland and bird habitat. It supports many migratory and resident waterbirds. The site offers quiet birdwatching and field research opportunities. It appears because of its conservation value among Myanmar wetlands.

Kinda Reservoir

Kinda Reservoir stores water for farming and local water supply in central Myanmar. It is a man-made lake with shoreline villages and fishing. The reservoir supports irrigation projects and rural livelihoods. It represents the many utility reservoirs on the country’s lake list.

Mone Dam Reservoir

Mone Dam Reservoir sits in Mon State and holds water behind a concrete dam. It serves irrigation and local fisheries. Nearby communities use the reservoir for daily water and small boats. The reservoir is included as a regional water resource.

Sedawgyi Reservoir

Sedawgyi Reservoir lies near central Myanmar highlands and serves irrigation and flood control. It creates open water and reed margins that attract birds. Locals use its shores for picnics and fishing. It is notable as a mid-size man-made lake in the region.

Shweli 1 Reservoir

Shweli 1 Reservoir forms on the Shweli River in northern Myanmar. It supports hydroelectric power and river regulation. The reservoir changes river flow and creates new shoreline habitats. It appears as a major river-reservoir example in Myanmar.

Meiktila Lake

Meiktila Lake sits beside the town of Meiktila in central Myanmar. It is an artificial lake used for water supply and temples on its banks. The lake offers local recreation and a cultural setting. It is listed for its role in town life and tradition.

Hlawga Lake

Hlawga Lake sits inside Hlawga Wildlife Park near Yangon. It is a managed reservoir and park habitat with birds and small wildlife. The lake supports walking trails and boat views inside the protected area. It appears as an easy-access nature spot near the city.

Inya Lake

Inya Lake lies in Yangon and forms a large urban water body with parks and hotels on its shores. It is popular for walks, rowing, and city views. The lake balances green space and recreation inside the capital region. It is included as a major city lake.

Taungthaman Lake

Taungthaman Lake lies near Amarapura, close to Mandalay. It holds the famous U Bein Bridge, the long teak footbridge across its shallows. The lake hosts boat rides and sunset views. It ranks high on lists of Myanmar lakes for cultural and visual impact.

Pindaya Lake

Pindaya Lake sits in western Shan State near the Pindaya caves. It is a small scenic lake with boat rentals and mountain views. Pilgrims and visitors use the lake as a calm stop near cave temples. It is included for its tourist and local charm.

Kandawgyi Lake

Kandawgyi Lake sits in central Yangon next to Kandawgyi Park and the royal palace-style Karaweik. It is an urban landscaped lake with walking paths and city skyline views. The lake serves leisure, tourism, and public gatherings. It ranks among Yangon’s signature lakes.

Rih Dil

Rih Dil lies in Chin State near the India border and forms a deep, clear mountain lake. It holds cultural importance for local Chin communities and features steep, wooded slopes. The lake sees ceremonial visits and bright scenery. It is included for cultural and cross-border interest.

Samkar Lake

Samkar Lake represents a smaller, lesser-known lake in Myanmar. It supports local fishing and seasonal bird visits. The lake appears in regional lists as an example of minor but useful freshwater bodies. It serves nearby villages and rural habitat needs.

Tigyaing Lake

Tigyaing Lake sits in Sagaing Region as a seasonal floodplain lake. It fills during the rains and attracts waterbirds and fish. Local communities use the lake for fishing and grazing when waters recede. It is notable for wetland ecology and birdlife.

Yezin Dam

Yezin Dam creates a reservoir near the forestry and research zones outside Naypyidaw. It supports irrigation, research, and university fieldwork. The lake and nearby forests host birds and study plots. It appears for its role in science and water management.

Ut Thaung Lake

Ut Thaung Lake stands as a small natural or man-made lake in Myanmar’s interior. It supports local agriculture and fishing. The lake offers quiet shoreline views and rural access. It is included as part of the broader set of Myanmar lakes.

Palan Tso

Palan Tso names a highland or local lake in Myanmar that holds cultural and landscape value. It provides habitat for birds and seasonal water storage. Visitors find quiet scenery and local traditions at its shores. It appears on the list as a representative upland lake.

Lakes in Other Countries