Nestled amidst the verdant hills of Arunachal Pradesh, Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Pakke Tiger Reserve) is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Encompassing an area of over 860 square kilometers, the sanctuary boasts a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, offering a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.
Getting to Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary:
The nearest airport to Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is Tezpur Airport in Assam. From Tezpur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhalukpong, the gateway town to the sanctuary. The journey from Tezpur to Bhalukpong is around 90 kilometers and takes approximately 3 hours.
What to expect in Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary:
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of mammals, including the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, the elusive clouded leopard, the Indian elephant, the gaur, and the barking deer. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds calling it home. Some of the commonly sighted birds include the hornbill, the white-winged wood duck, the jungle fowl, and the peacock pheasant.
Apart from jungle safaris, visitors can also enjoy trekking, bird watching, and nature photography within the sanctuary. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for angling and camping.
Here are some of the activities you can do in Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Jeep safaris: The best way to explore the sanctuary and spot wildlife is to embark on a jeep safari. Jeep safaris are conducted early morning and late afternoon, when animals are most active.
- Elephant safaris: Elephant safaris offer a unique and thrilling way to explore the sanctuary. These safaris are conducted on specially trained elephants, which can take you deep into the forest where jeeps cannot go.
- Bird watching: Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 300 species of birds, the sanctuary is a great place to spot some rare and elusive birds.
- Trekking: The sanctuary offers several trekking trails that take you through the dense forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Nature photography: The lush green forests, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and the diverse wildlife make Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary a photographer's paradise.
Best time to visit Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary:
The best time to visit Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is between November and April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The summers in the region can be quite hot and humid, while the monsoon season can make the roads slippery and difficult to navigate.
Things to keep in mind:
- A permit is required to enter the sanctuary. Permits can be obtained from the forest office in Bhalukpong.
- Jeep safaris and elephant safaris need to be booked in advance, especially during peak season.
- It is important to follow the instructions of your guide while on a safari.
- Do not litter in the sanctuary.
- Respect the wildlife and avoid making loud noises.
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where you can truly commune with nature and experience the beauty of the wild. With its diverse wildlife, stunning scenery, and exciting activities, the sanctuary is a must-visit for any nature lover.