Bueng Boraphet

Bueng Boraphet is a semi-natural lake in Nakorn Sawan province, central Thailand, whose water level varies with the seasons, with the highest levels at the conclusion of the wet season and the beginning of the dry season, and getting rather low at times around April.

The lake is one of Thailand's largest and most famous wetland habitats, thanks to the discovery of the virtually mythical White-eyed River Martin in 1968 and all subsequent sightings of the bird (up to 1980) that occurred here. This species is unlikely to be seen again, but the combination of reedbeds, lotus and lilies, open water, and scrubland offers for a superb birding spectacle at any time of year, though the majority of species will be seen during the dry season.

Although this site is designated as a non-hunting area, the habitat itself receives little protection, the reed beds have been greatly reduced as a result of human disturbance, and the lake's margins are under increasing pressure from development and conversion to rice fields; while fishing is permitted, hunting of birds is not permitted.

Boat cruises for birdwatching or sightseeing are a popular choice for both birders and non-birders, and the crocodile breeding center provides an opportunity to observe these beasts up close, but many of them have escaped due to heavy flooding and can be found in the lake itself! Aside from the birds, the stunning display of water lilies and lotus blossoms is a sight to behold and makes for excellent photography.