The area finds mention in Hindu epics like Mahabharat. The district is named after the Lohit river that is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘red‘. The reason for the peculiar nomenclature is the eccentric nature of the river. During the transition period, the river takes up reddish hues reflecting the sands beneath. Thus, like the morning sky, the river turn from a vibrant array of red to blues.

The area has really basic facilities. Untouched by tourists, the area neither has good roads nor does it have five-star lodging facilities. Thus, a trip to Lohit would not be one of laid back Sundays but more like take charge Thursdays. The area is a delight for backpackers who would wish to put up their camps on an unplanned route. The wandering spirits might find it fun to interact with the tribal people, who are one with the nature. For the less foolhardy, the area has government lodgings like the circuit houses and some privately-owned lodges. The basic facilities in the area make the trip different from the usual vacation one takes. The whole point of the trip is, to step out of your comfort zone to experience something unique.

Do not forget to take into account the many festivals that are celebrated in the area. They are the quickest way to get a glimpse into the life of the local people.

1. Parshuram Kunda

The place has mythical significance and has tales from Mahabharat about the angry saint Parshuram. Last year alone about 30,000 devotees visited the area. A dip in the kunda here on Makar Sankranti is said to cleanse you of all your sins. The area also has a temple dedicated to lord Parshuram. The area is as scenically serene as it is religiously significant.

2. Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary

Kamlang wildlife sanctuary has numerous birds and animals. The area is lined with pristine Alpine trees, bamboos and shrubs. The sanctuary has various varieties of big cats like leopard, tigers, clouded leopard and snow leopard. The glow lake is a panoramic site inside the sanctuary. The lake reflects the mighty snow laden mountains that surround it.

3. Dong Valley

The first rays of the sun touch India here. The sunlight illuminates the tranquil conjunction of three countries namely, India, Myanmar and China. Dong valley is an eight-hour trek from the Walong army camp. This was the place where many Indian soldiers laid their lives when China invaded the lands in 1962.

4. Buddha Vihar

The Buddha vihar has a shrine of Lord Buddha and the adjoining monastery houses the many monks in the area. The monastery, like all the other places in the area, is surrounded by lush green forest. The green of the forest is in sharp contrast to the golden architecture of the buildings. Devotees come here to offer their prayers as also to find answers to question in the tranquil environment of the monastery.

5. Birding and Backpacking

The area has a wide variety of birds that can be seen even while travelling from one place to another only if one has the eye. The forest setting interspersed with the many villages makes the area an ideal location for camping and trekking. The local people act as both guides and porters. You would get a firsthand experience of the agricultural tracts and the indigenous way of living. Conversation with the locals and trying to understand their culture and stories of survival in the forest is as important part of the trek as the sites. The many rivers draining the area also make it an important white water rafting site. Do test the waters if you are in the area.

A holiday to Lohit would be like no other. It would be a part of that travel story that would frequent dinner table conversations. It would be that rare experience, you were impulsive or brave enough to take. The scenic setting of the area and the mixture of the Hindu, Buddhist and tribal culture would be an image engrained in your memory. Before the trip, do not forget to procure the Inner line permit.

More Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh:

• Top Tourist Destinations In Changlang
• Top Tourist Destinations In Ziro
• Top Tourist Destinations In Roing

Summers in Tawang are the ideal time to be touring it. The summers are cooler in comparison to its climate at other times of the year, which makes it automatically cool and pleasant for other people to visit it. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, and you could go visit the numerous monasteries and lakes. Also, festivals colour and light up the place, especially around March. There are music festivals as well.

Monsoon in Tawang is not the most popular pick among tourists. There is not too much rainfall, but being located in the hills, there’s always a chance that showers could cut communication, or make roads risky. Plus, there are no rains potent enough to beautify the surroundings further, and occasional rains may add a dampener to your sightseeing plans.

Winters in Tawang are sufficiently chilly, and it is highly advisable to carry good stocks of woollens. It is colder than the average Indian winter, but snowfall isn’t too frequent. The sightseeing activity takes a hit, though, and this season is not as popular for tourism purposes as summer is.

How to Reach Tawang

Tawang can be reached by air through the closest Tezpur airport, but the distance between the two is such that you would have to take a taxi or other conveyance to a hotel. The railway station is also Tezpur, which offers trains to Tawang. The roads are connected to Tawang as well, and you could take buses that go to and fro very frequently between Tawang and places like Bomdila, Assam.

What to Do and See in Tawang

• Sela Pass

It is the premier tourist destination of the whole state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is of immense geographical significance, and as diverse as it is beautiful to look at. It is snow capped one season, and completely free from it the next! Also, it photographs beautifully.

• Tawang Monastery

Is for the culture lover and world explorer who would love to take a peek into Buddhism. The second largest monastery, it beautiful, rich in culture and should be on the must list of every visitor to Tawang. No disappointment.

• Nuranang Waterfalls

These beautiful falls are another must see item of Tawang. It is magnificent, flowing right into the Tawang river, and also helps power generation wise, as it is a source for hydro power production.

• Gorichen Peak

This is another attraction for both nature enthusiasts, budding photographers and adventure seekers. While the views are magnificent and it photographs really well, the trek to the high above the world peak provides ample stimulation to trekkers through challenge.

Tawang offers a choice selection of diverse types of tourist destinations, and it is up to you to pick and choose. But for once, you really will be spoilt for choice. There are monasteries and lakes, falls and peaks, and just about everything that makes a hill station worth its salt. And it can satisfy every sort of tourist from the adventure junkie to the nature aficionado to the culture geek. Use this weather guide to plan ahead, cash in on season and make the most of your Tawang vacation. Happy sojourning in the hills to you!

1. Talley Valley Trek

With dazzling meadows, stark white glaciers, dense vegetation, Talley Valley is one of the most gorgeous places in Arunachal Pradesh. With exotic wildlife and a wide array of plants and trees in this sub-tropical rainforest, Talley Valley Trek offers one of the best trekking experiences at an altitude of 2400 meters. Giving sweeping views of the encircling mountain ranges, valleys and paddy fields, this is one of the most famous treks in the state. A 9-day trek starting from Guwahati and traversing through Tezpur, Ziro and Pange, the trail ends at Talley Valley, which is a wildlife sanctuary and a bio-diversity hotspot. This enchanting and rare trail is best undertaken during the months of May – June.

2. Bailey Trail

Tracing the historic route traversed by the British officers, Captain H. T. Morshed and Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey, who were commissioned to survey the land lying between the state of Arunachal Pradesh and Tibet during 1911-12, Bailey trail is also traces an old trade route that connected India, Burma and Tibet. Passing through some remote dense forest cover in the Eastern Himalayas, the trail offers exquisite and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to witness two of northeastern India’s highest peaks, Gorichen and Kangto.

Coursing through pristine lakes, Monpa Tribe villages, glacial rivers, the trail passes through the regions of Sela Pass, a heavenly site which is the highest point in this trek at an altitude of 4550 meters, Dirang River Valley at Chander, which stands at an elevation of 2530 metres, Tse la Pass and Tawang, which is a paradise for nature lovers. This wonderful journey will have you contemplating the culture and heritage of the remote villages of Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Ziro Trek

This picture-perfect region forms one of the most wondrous hill stations of the state and is ideal for trekking and other adventure activities. The vast dark green forest areas with undulating terrains add to the mystical beauty of this region. Just 32 kilometres from Talley valley, Ziro trek can offer some brilliant attractions like the magnificent Kardo Hills, a sweeping view of the breathtaking Ziro Valley, and the inevitable sight of the 25 ft. high and 22 ft. wide Shiva Lingam on the Kardo Hills. The abode of the infamous and endangered snow leopard, Ziro is also home to innumerable exotic and rare species of plants and animals; many of which are endemic.

4. Mechuka Trek

If you have some time on your hands to experience the thrill that this wonderful state has to offer, then challenge yourself to the Mechuka trek. Taking 15 – 20 days to traverse, this trail starts from Ziro and is not for the faint-hearted. Still largely unexplored, the region of Mechuka is threaded by beautiful hillocks with meandering streams, grazing horses and cows and a bird’s eye-view of some scattered villages. Its name translates to “the land of medicinal water” and attesting to this is the Yargyap Chu river that flows through the Mechuka forest, the sight of which is pleasant and somehow meditatively reassuring.

This trek also takes you on an up, close and personal encounter with China, lying mere 27 kilometres from here, the road to which is very close to the trail. The trail takes you through some lovely villages giving a chance to mingle with the local community and also provides an encounter with the 400-year old Samten-Yongcha monastery. With paradisiacal scenes and a rejuvenating journey, this trek is a must for all the adventurers.

5. Gorichen Base Camp Trek

Running for 15 – 20 days, this expedition covers the high and the low regions of Arunachal Pradesh. One of the most arduous treks of this state, Gorichen base camp trek starts from Jang and concludes at Tawang with a visit to the second largest monastery in Asia. With an opportunity to witness the majestic mountain ranges with views of the unblemished lakes, forest covers and vast green fields, this trek also teases the daring trekkers with the rewards of some unclaimed peaks.

The tranquil state of lush greenery and an ascetic life, Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful states of India. With the Himalayan mountains conquering these lands, the state offers excellent trekking trails. The above 5 treks are the best trails in the state.

1. Namdapha National Park

Namdapha National Park is one of the largest areas that have been declared as ‘protected zones’ in the region of the Eastern Himalayas. This park is known for its rich biodiversity and geographical size. Different types of flora and fauna can be seen here in the range of animals and plants that call this park home. These include the endangered snow leopards, clouded leopards as well as red pandas and the red fox. Located within the range of Mishmi Hills and the Patkai range, the park has the added advantage of being the home to a variety of butterflies and moths. The rare species of butterflies that are found here have been documented under the National Camp held here in 2014. The park is situated near the border with Myanmar in the district of Changlang. Known to be an amalgamation of rainforests and evergreen forests, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers!

2. Mouling National Park

Mouling National Park was the second national park to be established in the State after Namdapha National Park. The park is named after a nearby peak with the same name which translates into ‘red blood’. This name comes from the red latex made by a tree species found here. Covering an area of 483 square kilometres, the Siyom river flows through it along with a few other rivulets, the different bio-spheres present here is known to be home to a variety of animals like the Bengal tiger, barking deer and leopards. The only issue is of connectivity because the park is inaccessible via road but the untouched natural reserve is worth the trip.

3. Kane Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kane wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, known for the initiative aimed at preserving the wildlife of the State. The best time to visit the sanctuary is around the period of October to April. This is the best time to visit because the sanctuary is filled with birds that visit the area around the time. The nearest railway station is Silapathar Railway station which is around 20 kilometres away from the park. Visit the park to witness unique animals like wild felines and elephants in their natural habitats along with beautiful flora all around.

4. Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary

Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its greenery and is covered with dense forests. The tropical evergreen forests provide a thick bio-diverse sphere for animals and plants to flourish in. The animals from the Park include tigers, leopards, cats, jackals and other wild animals. The best time to visit the park is around November to March. The forests provide a glimpse into the local vegetation of bamboos and pine trees.

5. Daying Erring Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary

Initially established as Lali wildlife sanctuary, the Daying Erring Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary is known to be the home to a variety of carnivores and herbivores like deer, langur, and water buffaloes. Spanning over an area of 190 square kilometres, the park is located in the East Sian district criss-crossed with the tributaries of rivers Siang and Sibiya. The best place to stay here is the Circuit House near Pasighat which can be booked by getting in touch with the park authorities.

Arunachal Pradesh is a rich and diverse sanctuary of a variety of flora and fauna that can be observed from close quarters though these National Parks. The State is a beautiful picturesque hilly place to visit for a nice getaway from the hustle-bustle of everyday life!

Climatic Conditions

Tawang faces moderate summers and harsh winters with a medium amount of rainfall. The summer months are from March to June and the temperature never goes beyond 25 degrees Celsius. During the monsoon months of July to September, the area experiences pleasant weather, low humidity and moderate rainfall. However, in the winter months, that is November to February, this area experiences harsh weather, with temperatures dropping to – 12 degrees Celsius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tawang is during the spring and summer season, when the natural surroundings are in full bloom and the weather is mild and encourages exploration. The best months are March, April, May, June, September and October.

Attractions/ Things To Do

The picturesque beauty of Tawang can be observed in its rich culture and religious resonance. Tawang has a number of attractions that are uniquely awe striking and imprint themselves in the memories of tourists who visit here. Paradise Lake is a still freshwater lake that is surrounded by mountains. The water here is crystal clear and breezes are cold. A short distance from Paradise Lake is Sela Pass which is a popular tourist destination. The pass is covered in snow throughout the winter months. Tawang monastery is a sight to behold with its gigantic golden Buddha statue. The monastery holds deed religious significance amongst the locals and is a revered spiritual site. Gorsam Chorten is another religious structure that adds to Tawang’s scenic appeal. It is the largest Stupa erected for the Buddhist religion and was built in the early 12th century. Gorsam Chorten has been visited by many scholars, holy men and tourists alike through the years. It still stands strong as it did through the ages.

How to Reach

Tawang is best accessed by road, going through the Sila Pass. However, air and rail connectivity is possible by the nearby town, Tezpur. The Salonibari Airport in Tezpur is a six-hour drive away from Tawang and is connected to all major cities across India, as is the Tezpur Railway Station, which is also well connected to all neighboring states and cities. While travelling by road to Tawang, one can hire the Arunachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation buses or a private bus or taxi service

Distance from Major Cities

• Tezpur – 150 kilometers
• Guwahati – 166 kilometers
• Itanagar – 193 kilometers
• Kolkata – 659 kilometers
• Delhi – 1431 kilometers
• Hyderabad – 1776 kilometers
• Ahmedabad – 1995 kilometers
• Chennai –2012 kilometers
• Pune – 2091 kilometers
• Mumbai – 2148 kilometers
• Bangalore – 2198 kilometers

Accessibility and Accommodation

One may find luxury and budget hotels in and around the main city but many prefer to go for the more reasonable medium and budget accommodations. Popular hotels and lodges in this category in Tawag include the Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang near D.C.Office, the Tawang Tourist Lodge, the Tawang Inn, the Hotel Pung Teng house, the Nefa Hotel and the Siddhartha Hotel in Nehru Market, the Buddha Hotel in Old Bazar Line and the Gorichen Hotel in Old Market.

Adjacent to the Mouling National Park, it was established in 1980s. Later in 1988, as per the guidelines of UNESCO, together these areas became part of Dibang Biosphere Reserve, one of the major bio-diversity hotspots of the world. The protection of the rich bio diversity is in the hands of Department of Environment and Forest of Arunachal Pradesh. The surroundings are sparsely populated and inhabited by Idu Mishmi tribes. One cannot give a miss to the snow lake called alpine Kahaiwhite Lake and Valley of Flowers, hailed as the most renowned tourist attractions.

Climatic Conditions

The temperature ranges between 18 degree Celsius and 22 degree Celsius during summers. Apart from freezing temperature, winter is accompanied by heavy snowfall of nearly 6m to 10m depth. It receives heavy rainfall from south west and north east monsoon.

Best Time to Visit

The months from November to May are considered the best time to visit this place. Nearly 80% of the rainfall occurs during south west monsoon from May to October which leads to complete shutdown of all activities.

Wildlife at Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary

Flora

It consists of vegetation of moist temperate and alpine type. The two main categories of vegetation are temperate broad leaved forest and temperate conifer forest (Rhododendra, Bamboo, Gregaria, Tsuga etc). Alpine vegetation occurs at higher altitude with herbs, stunted trees and dwarf bushes. During flowering season in the month of May and June for brief time, one can witness the stretch of bright coloured gregarious flowering.

Fauna

It is a rare opportunity to witness a number of species of the same family existing together in the same place. Snow leopards thrive in proximity to high altitudes whereas clouded leopards are found in lower latitudinal zones. Other carnivores include marbled cat, jungle cat, tiger, panther etc. Among herbivores-musk deer, Mishmi takin, red panda, serow, blue sheep, red goral. Other species of fauna are Gongshan muntjac, Asiatic black bear, Mishmi hills flying giant squirrel, otter, sloth bear and macaque. Out of the 190 species of avifauna found, Temminck’s Tragopan, Japanese Bush Warbler, Blyth’s Tragopan, Rufus Tailed Babbler and Sclater’s Monal are some of rare ones. This Eastern Himalayan Ecosystem is home to a variety of frog species, almost 45 species of moths, butterflies and many other insects.

Reptiles

Amongst snakes, Cobra (King and Nala variety), Krait, Indian Rock Python and viper are commonly found. Apart from these, non poisonous snakes also thrive there.

Distance From Nearby And Major Cities

• Itanagar– 330 kilometres
• Tezpur – 422 kilometres
• Guwahati – 538 kilometres
• Sikkim – 753 kilometres
• Kolkata – 1058 kilometres
• Delhi – 1826 kilometres
• Chennai – 2414 kilometres
• Mumbai – 2592 kilometres
• Bangalore – 2616 kilometres

Nearest Airport – Mohanbari at Dibrugarh is the nearest airport which is only 40 km away from this sanctuary. From Dibrugarh, one can reach the sanctuary via Roing. Dibrugarh has regular flight services to Delhi and Kolkata. One can also reach Anini by air through Arunachal Pradesh helicopter service.

Nearest Railway Station – Roing town in lower Dibang valley district meets all the commercial needs. The nearest railway station to Roing is Tinsukhia Railway station which provides direct bus to the sanctuary.

Road Accessibility – Anini is well connected to Roing by bus and taxi services. Following the route of National Highway 37 (Dibrugarh-Tinsukia-Sadiya Ghat) is the recommended access to reach the sanctuary.

Accommodation Facilities

Anini offers many government and private accommodations. Circuit house at Roing and Anini, Mayudia tourist lodge, hotel Lasa and hotel Mimu at Roing are some of the places to stay. One can opt for stay at forest rest house in the sanctuary.

Entry Fee

An inner line permit or restricted area permit for Indians while protected area permit for foreigners is a must before entering Arunachal Pradesh. In addition, permission from regional forest office is needed.

Climatic Conditions

The Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary has a subtropical climate and it receives plenty of rain in the month of April, due to the high altitude it even receives snow in the peak of the winter months. The temperature drops down to as low as zero degrees Celsius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the cooler months of October to April during which the weather is more conducive to travel and tourist activities.

Wildlife at the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary has about 34 species of amphibians, 24 species of snakes, 7 species of lizards, 454 species of birds and 165 species of butterflies. The wildlife here is prolific, making it one of the most ecologically protected areas of the country.

Flora

The vegetation in the area is lowland evergreen forests, broad-leaved forest, bamboo, conifers, roadside scrubs and farmland.

Animals

The fauna found at the Sanctuary include Asian elephant, capped langur (endangered specie), Bengal tiger, red panda, gaur, Asiatic black bear Arunachal macaque, etc.

Birds

The Avians found at the Sanctuary include cormorants, Oriental white (black-headed) ibis, herons, kites, black stork, ducks, hawks, jungle fowl, eagles, harriers and vultures, falcons, pheasants, quail, and peafowl, black-necked crane, rails, plovers, dotterels, waders, stone-curlew, pigeons, cuckoos, owls, swifts, trogons, kingfishers, rollers, hoopoes, hornbills, broadbills, larks, martins, shrikes, bulbuls, nightjars, shrike, brown dipper, accentors, ibis bill, thrushes, lapwings, bee-eaters, Old World flycatchers, parrot bills, gulls, fairy-bluebirds, warblers, nuthatches, sunbirds, Oriental white-eye, pittas, bunting, finches, munia, sparrows, parrots, starlings, small pratincole, orioles, drongos, wagtails, barbets, woodpeckers, ashy wood swallow and jays.

Reptiles

The reptiles found in the Sanctuary include agamids, geckos and skinks. Abor Hill agama was rediscovered at the Sanctuary after 125 years.

Other rare species found here include the Darjeeling false-wolfsnake, Anderson’s mountain lizard, common slug snake, Günther’s kukri snake and keelback snakes

Butterflies

The butterflies found at the Sanctuary include grey admiral, Bhutan glory, scarce red-forester, tiger brown, jungle-queen sp, dusky labyrinth, white-edged bush-brown, and white owl.

Activities In the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary can be accessed on foot, bikes and motorcycles can also be used to explore the area. Usage of jeeps and cars is only permitted for a few months in the year and completely banned through the months of June till October.

Distance from Nearby and Major Cities

Bomdila– 50 kilometers

Nearest Airport –The nearest airport is at Tezpur, which has a good frequency of flights to and from Kolkata.

Nearest Railway Station –The nearest railway station is at Bhalukpong.

Road Accessibility – The Sanctuary is well connected by road to the Tawang – Tezpur road. There is a frequent bus and taxi service between Tawang, Itanagar and Tenga (Bomdila).

Accommodation Facilities

Accommodation in this area is available the Forest Rest House in Ramalingam and Public Works Department Inspection Bunglows are available at Dedza and Tenga. Alternate accommodation is available at Singchung, Bompu, Sessni, Kellong etc. in the form of Inspection Bunglows and GREF sheds.

Entry Fee

An Inner Line Permit is required for Indian nationals and a Restricted Area Permit is required for foreign nationals for entry into Arunachal Pradesh. This Permit can be obtained from the office of the Deputy Resident Commissioner. These permits are required at Bhalukpong. The Circle Officers at Tenga, Singchung, Bhalukpong or Bomdila can issue fresh permits for extension of stay, however this option is available only to Indian nationals.

Forest entry permits are issued by the Divisional Forest Officer.
Address: Pakke Tiger Reserve,
Seijusa. E. Kameng district,
Arunachal Pradesh.
Phone +91-3778-222229.

The Bugun tribe of Tenga and the Sherdukpen tribe of Rupa which lost their right over the Eaglenest Sanctuary area now charge an entry fee of Rs. 500 per day for foreign nationals and Rs. 100 for Indian nationals, which goes into the Bugun Welfare Society.

Climatic Conditions

Pakhui Tiger Reserve is a subtropical climate zone with cold winters starting from the month of November and ending in the month of March. The temperature in this area ranges between 12 degrees Celsius to 36 degrees Celsius. The annual rainfall experienced in this region is around 2,500 millimeters. Monsoon occurs between the months of May to September and again from November to April. October and November are relatively dry and less rainy months. May and June are the hottest months here, this area experiences extreme humidity in the summer months.

Best Time to Visit Pakhui Tiger Reserve

The best time to visit the Reserve is between the months of November to April. At this time the Reserve is experiencing winter and the weather is cool and pleasant.

Wildlife at Pakhui Tiger Reserve

The Wildlife at the Pakhui Tiger Reserve is profuse. The wide varieties of flora and fauna found here is a rare exhibit of ecology in a time and age of environmental degradation. This Reserve is home to over 36 species of reptiles, 500 species of butterflies, and 30 species of amphibians.

Flora

The vegetation in the Reserve is of the tropical semi-evergreen forest type like the vegetation found typically in the Assam Valley. The plant species found in the Reserve include Paroli Stereospermum chelonioides, Ailanthus grandis, Hatipehala Pterospermum acerifolium, Kari Polyalthia simiarum, Karibadam Sterculia alata and Khokun Duabanga grandiflora.

Animals

The fauna found in the Reserve include yellow throated martins, Tigers, jungle cats, jackals, binturongs, gaurs, barking deer, Malayan giant squirrels, clouded leopards, bisons, elephants, sambers, deer, flying squirrels, squirrels, capped langurs, wildboars, wild dogs, rhesus macaques, civets, Assamese macaques, leopards, Himalayan black bears, hogs, etc.

Birds

The Avians found in the Reserve include Jerdon’s baza, wreathed hornbill, silver-eared leiothrix, pied falconet, lesser necklaced laughing-thrush, collared broadbill, white-browed shortwing, grey peacock-pheasant, sultan tit, yellow-bellied flycatcher warbler, blue-naped pitta, ruby-cheeked sunbird, green pigeon spp., ibisbill, white-cheeked hill-partridge, Asian emerald cuckoo, red-headed trogon, forest eagle owl, great hornbill, maroon oriole, Daurian redstart, long-tailed broadbill, elwe’s crake, lesser shortwing, Leschenault’s forktail, white-bellied yuhina, and crow-billed drongo, etc.

Reptiles

Reptiles found in the park include the rare Pied warty frog, Assam roof turtle an endangered species, the king cobra, etc.

Activities in and around the Sanctuary

The activities that the Pakhui Tiger Reserve offers include walks through the forest with hornbill nest protectors, jeep rides and walks to Khari, Walks around the village, cultural programs with the local people, bird watching programs and educational tours.

Distance from Nearby and Major Cities

The nearest major town is Tezpur, which is approximately 65 kilometers away.

Nearest Airports – The nearest airports to the Reserve are Tezpur and Guwahati, which are 50 kilometers and 280 kilometers away from Seijosa and Bhalukpong respectively.

Nearest Railway Station – Nearest railway stations are Soibari (36 kilometers away), Biswanath Chariali (47 kilometers away) and Rangapara (60 kilometers away) from Seijosa or Bhalukpong.

Road Accessibility

Pakhui Tiger Reserve is open from the North, East and west headings. It is reachable from:

Seijosa in the east: Seijosa is associated with Guwahati and Tezpur through the Soibari–Pakke Kessang street.

Bhalukpong in the west: Bhalukpong entryway is joined through the Tezpur-Bomdila visitor course.

Pakke Kessang in the north: Pakke Kessang is open through Itanagar or the Seppa course.

Arunachal Pradesh State Transport or private transport administrations are accessible every day from Tezpur to Seijosa, (transports don’t utilize on Thursdays). Bhalukpong is very much joined with Tezpur, Guwahati, Rangapara, Bomdila and Balipara through State transport administrations.

Other transport alternatives include
Taxi services: that can be availed from Chariali, Biswanath, Tezpur, Balipara, Soibari, Rangapara, Itanagar to Seijosa, Pakke Kessang or Bhalukpong.
Shared taxi services: can be availed from, Seppa, Itanagar to Pakke Kessang. and from Soibari to Seijosa.

Accommodation Facilities

Accommodation is available at Seijosa, Khari and Langka forest rest houses on the eastern side of the park, however food needs to be arranged by the travellers themselves, this is effectively accessible at nearby stores conveniently situated around. Hotels and Inns are available in Bhalukpong. Alternate accommodation is available around 4 kilometers away from Bhalukpong at the Tipi Forest Rest House.

Entry Fee

An Inner Line Permit is required for Indian nationals and a Restricted Area Permit is required for outside nationals for section into Arunachal Pradesh. This Permit can be acquired from the office of the Deputy Resident Commissioner. Furthermore, the authorities of Pakhui Tiger Reserve can be contacted for details regarding entry fee etc.

1. Itanagar

Itanagar being the capital, is the commercial hub of the state. It is famous for numerous trekking routes that start from this place. One of the most popular places amongst travellers here is the Ita Fort which was constructed in the 15th Century. The city is named after this very fort. The word ‘Ita’ means ‘brick’ in the Ahom language. Another must visit place is the Gompa Buddhist Temple which was consecrated by the Dalai Lama. Itanagar is also home to the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum that showcases the rich tribal culture of the state. Itanagar is well connected by bus as well as helicopter services that ply from Guwahati to Naharlagun (Itanagar).

2. Ziro Valley

Ziro is the headquarters of the Lower Subansiri District, also popularly known as the Apatani Plateau. It is situated 1500 meters above sea level and is very rich in flora and fauna. One of the must visit places here are the Talley Valley Wildlife sanctuary, which is home to various endangered species. It boasts of silver fir trees, bamboo trees and beautiful orchids because of which this place is a bio-diversity zone. The Meghna Cave temple also attracts a lot of tourists as it is an ancient cave temple that dates back to 5000 years situated on a hill top that provides stunning views of the surroundings. The Ziro valley also has unique places to see like the Tarin Fish Farm that breeds high altitude fishes and is surrounded by pine and bamboo trees. The nearest airport to Ziro is Tezpur and nearest railway station is North Lakhimpur.

3. Bomdila

Bomdila is situated at a height of 8000ft above sea level. It is surrounded by serene ice caped mountains and the Kangto and Gorichen peaks. Bomdila’s most important spot is the Bomdila monastery. The quiet hill station also has the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary which is home to around 2600 orchids of 80 different species. Bomdila is the perfect go-to destination for family outings and road trips.

4. Pasighat

Pasighat is the oldest town of the state. It is the headquarters of the East Siang District. This place is best for water sports as the Siang River, which is the main tributary of the Brahmaputra, flows right through the city. Popular sightseeing spots are the Daying Erring Wildlife sanctuary, Mouling National Park and Jengging which are known for being the home of various endangered species of flora and fauna alike. You can reach Pasighat from Guwahati, Lakhimpur and Itanagar by bus.

5. Tawang

The Tawang region is situated between the Gudpi and Chong Chugmi ranges and is known for its scenic beauty. It is also home to the second largest monastery in the world, the Tawang monastery. The monastery houses a 28 feet high statue of Lord Buddha. Tawang is also known for the Indi-China border where one can sip delicious tea and visit the army war memorials around. The town has two waterfalls- Bap Teng Kang and Nuranang falls. The best way to visit this place is to drive down while taking in the scenic beauty of the mountain ranges of the Himalayas that adorn the city.

Arunachal Pradesh is home to rich culture and even richer bio diversity. Its hill stations are yet to be commercialized and that is the very reason behind the serenity of these quaint little places that seem like paradise. If you want to explore, trek and relax in the midst of the Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh is the place to go!

Adorning the north-eastern tip of India, Namdapha National Park lies in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is spread across a huge area of 1985 sq. Km. making it the third largest national park in the country. It is also the largest protected area in the eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and a haven for some of the rare and endangered species. Namdapha is said to be the perfect place for wildlife or nature enthusiasts. The unexplored biodiversity and the undulating terrain makes way for a mind blowing adventure trip filled with awe and amazement.

[Also Checkout: Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of India]

Climatic Conditions

Being surrounded by the eastern Himalayan ranges of Mishmi hills, Namdapha experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year. While some peaks are blanketed in snow all through the year, the temperature during the winter months of November to February stays around 15˚C to 20˚C. The temperature during the summer season is around 27˚C to 32˚C from March to October.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Namdapha National Park is from November to April.

Wildlife & Vegetation

One of the largest biodiversity hotspots, Namdapha hosts an enormous variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and butterflies.

• Animals

Namdapha is the only national park in the world to be home to four feline species of the big cat family: Leopards, Tigers, Snow Leopards and Clouded Leopards. Other inhabitants of these magnificent forests include Stump-tailed macaque, Capped Langurs, Dholes, Asiatic Black Bears, Red Panda, Yellow-Throated Marten, Assamese Macaque, Slow Loris, Marbled Cat, Golden Cat, Spotted Linsang, Mongoose, Otter, Hoolock Gibbons, Binturong, Sambar, Gaur etc. The rare Namdapha Giant Flying Squirrel is found only at this park.

• Birds

A heaven for birds and bird-watchers, Namdapha is where you can find a stupendous variety of 425 species of birds. And, that number is just the species reported till date. Hornbills, Wren-Babblers, Thrushes, Parrotbills, Fulvettas, Shrike Babblers, Rudy Kingfisher, Purple Cochoa, Beautiful Nuthatch, Ward’s Trogon, White-Tailed Fish Eagle, Blue-Eared Kingfisher, Pied Falconet, Himalayan Wood-Owl and many, many more others. The critically endangered White Bellied Heron has also been found here.

• Reptiles

Monitor lizard, Indian and Malayan pythons and the king cobra can be found here.

• Vegetation

The major portions of this thick tropical rainforest are relatively unexplored and not open to the tourists. The explored area is known to be covered by some exquisite and unique varieties of plants. 150 species of timber are found here. This is the only place in the country to harbour the unique plant species of Pinus Merkusi and Abies Delavavi. Even the rare orchid variety, Blue Vanda seems to find shelter here. Mishimi Teeta, one of the most significant medicinal plants, is also grown here.

Distance from nearby and major cities:

The entry point of Namdapha is at Miao. Miao is close to the towns of Dibrugarh, Tinsukia and Magherita. Distance from these and other major cities can found as other. All distances are with respect to Miao.

• Deban: 26 km
• Magherita: 65 km
• Tinsukia: 115 km
• Mohanbari: 158 km
• Dibrugarh: 160 km
• Shillong: 507 km
• Guwahati: 599 km
• Kolkata: 985 km
• Lucknow: 1542 km
• New Delhi: 1900 km

How to reach

• By Air: Nearest airport is at Mohanbari, Dibrugarh which is 160 km from Miao (entry point) and 182 km from the Forest Rest House at Deban.
• By Rail: Nearest railheads include Magherita station and Tinsukia Railway station.
• By Road: Namdapha can be easily reached via road. Buses run by the Assamese State Transport Corporation ply daily from Dibrugarh to Miao via Tinsukia, Magherita etc. Private taxis can also be hired from Dibrugarh, Tinsukia and Magherita towards Miao. Average cost of taxi is around Rs. 3500.

Accommodation

Accomodation for tourists is available at Namdapha National Park as well as at Miao.

At Deban: Namdapha National Park: Accommodations are available at the Forest Rest House for Rs. 190 (double occupancy) and Rs. 145 (single occupancy). You can avail cheaper accommodation at the tourist hut for Rs. 90 (double occupancy) and Rs. 50 (single occupancy) or at the dormitory for Rs. 30/bed. For bookings contact,
The Field Director
Project Tiger
Namdapha Tiger Reserve
Miao – 792 122, Changlang District
Arunachal Pradesh, India
Phone/Fax: +91-3807-222249

At Miao: A number of options are available at Miao including Circuit house, Namdapha jungle camp, Eco-Tourist forest guest house and Inspection Bungalow. For Bookings contact:
The Additional Deputy Commissioner
Miao – 792 122, Changlang District
Arunachal Pradesh, India
Phone: +91-3807-222245
Local Attractions
The little township of Miao has many tourist attractions to offer. These include Miao Mini Zoo and the Miao Museum maintained by the Namdapha Park Authorities is located near the Field Director’s Office. The museum showcases the research work done at Namdapha. Sample specimens are kept for display.

Moti Jheel and Raja Jheel within the national park are popular tourist attractions.

Elephant ride, trekking, boat ride, bird watching, jungle safari and river crossing are popular activities at namdapha.

Other Useful Information

• Two permits are required to visit Namdapha: The Inner Line Permit is required to enter the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Tourist Permit issued by the Field Director is required to enter Namdapha.
• Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per head (for Indians) ; Rs. 50 per head (for Foreign Nationals)
• Entry Fee for Vehicles: Rs. 100. Entry is free for one driver per vehicle.

• Camera Charges

Rs. 75 (Ordinary Still Camera)
Rs. 400 (Still Camera with Tele Lens)
Rs. 750 (Video Camera)

• For more information regarding permits, entry fee etc, log on to http://changlang.nic.in/howto.html.