YANGON, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) -- Tourist arrivals in Myanmar declined by 25 percent in the first nine months of 2008, registering 188,931 as compared with 2007 correspondingly, the local Weekly Eleven News reported Monday.

    The monthly arrivals reached its peak in March of the year before May storm with 31,362, while it was 13,642 in September, recording the least number so far during the year.

    Arriving by air, sea and through border points, travelers mostly came from Asia region including Thailand, China and South Korea, the report said.

    Myanmar is striving for the promotion of tourism industry through hard working to re-draw attention of foreign tourists after cyclone despite temporary hardship that was experienced through the natural disaster.

    The authorities stressed the need to take measures for providing tourists with better accommodation, international-level services and smooth transport not only to Bagan, the archaeological hub of the country, but also to Mandalay, Inlay region, natural gardens and the regions where new year day commemorative festivals of various national races are held.

    Myanmar is known as a repository of archaeological regions, ancient edifices and artistic handicrafts. It has a variety of tourist attraction such as natural areas of impressive geographical features, protected natural areas, snow-capped mountain and beach resorts.

    Rich in natural resources including wildlife and rare species of flora and fauna that attracts tourists, Myanmar is also encouraging entrepreneurs to promote eco-tourism industry at the environmental conservation regions to earn income for the state.

    Also as part of its efforts to restore tourism operation, Myanmar is planning to hold a market festival in February in Inlay, one of the country's famous tourist sites in Shan state. Attached with the festival will also be an orchid show that features products from Inlay region and its surrounding areas to pick up tourist arrivals.

    Myanmar's tourism season, which is the open season, runs from October to April. The month of April is traditionally highlighted by its water festival which marks Myanmar new year.