Marching shrimp phenomenon returns to Ubon’s Kaeng Lamduan
Visitors can watch the annual shrimp parade at Kaeng Lamduan throughout September, with the centre warning that swimming is strictly prohibited.
- The annual "marching shrimp" phenomenon has returned to Kaeng Lamduan in Ubon Ratchathani, where large numbers of freshwater shrimp migrate upstream over rocks.
- The spectacle is available for public viewing throughout September 2026, specifically from 6 pm to 10 pm.
- This migration is a natural behavior where shrimp climb out of the water to bypass strong currents to reach mountaintop pools for mating and laying eggs.
- Due to fast-flowing water from recent rainfall, visitors are advised to follow staff instructions strictly, and swimming is prohibited for safety.
The Ubon Ratchathani Nature and Wildlife Education Centre, part of Protected Areas Regional Office 9 (Ubon Ratchathani) under the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, has announced the opening of the 2026 tourism season for the annual “marching shrimp” natural phenomenon at Kaeng Lamduan in Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani.
Viewing is available from Tuesday (September 1, 2026) to Wednesday (September 30, 2026), between 6pm and 10pm.
Large numbers of small freshwater shrimp have begun migrating upstream and can now be seen in abundance among the rocks, creating an unusual natural spectacle that occurs only once a year.
The marching shrimp phenomenon is a natural behaviour in which small freshwater shrimp migrate against fast-flowing currents to lay eggs and mate in pools on the mountaintop.
The centre has deployed staff to provide visitors with full assistance and ensure their safety.
However, continuous rainfall has left the stream fast-flowing.
Visitors are therefore asked to follow staff instructions strictly, particularly the rule that “swimming is strictly prohibited”, to protect them from danger.
The phenomenon occurs during the rainy season, particularly on nights with high humidity and strong currents.
The shrimp emerge together, climbing onto wet rocks and moving across them to avoid the force of the water.
The number of shrimp that emerge each night depends on natural factors, including water levels, temperature and rainfall.
The centre therefore advises tourists to contact it before travelling to enquire about conditions so they can plan their visit effectively and have the best possible experience.
The opening not only promotes ecotourism in Ubon Ratchathani but also aims to raise public awareness of the importance of aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity.
The agency will continue to monitor water conditions and ensure visitor safety throughout the event.
