Pakke Tiger Reserve

January

10.7 - 32.3 °C

February

13.3 - 36.0 °C

March

17.5 - 39.5 °C

April

19.7 - 40.9 °C

May

19.8 - 42.1 °C

June

21.2 - 40.4 °C

July

21.5 - 36.1 °C

August

21.9 - 35.1 °C

September

21.7 - 35.8 °C

October

19.2 - 35.1 °C

November

14.1 - 33.3 °C

December

11.0 - 31.4 °C

Major Airports :

Tezpur Airport (TEZ)

Nearest Railway Station :

Rangapara Railway Station (RPAN)

Explore Untouched Wilderness and Rich Biodiversity in Northeast India

Pakke Tiger Reserve, also known as Pakhui Tiger Reserve, is one of the most biodiverse wildlife destinations in Northeast India, located in the Pakke Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Spread across an expansive area of 862 sq km, the reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatchers seeking an immersive experience in pristine forest landscapes. Known for its dense vegetation, rich fauna, and successful conservation initiatives, Pakke gained national recognition after winning the India Biodiversity Award in 2016 for its innovative Hornbill Nest Adoption Programme, which focuses on protecting endangered hornbill species.

Why Visit Pakke Tiger Reserve

Pakke Tiger Reserve stands out as one of India’s most ecologically rich forest reserves, offering a rare opportunity to witness diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Its reputation as a stronghold for conservation, especially for hornbills and other endangered species, makes it an important destination for eco-tourism. Visitors can experience the thrill of jeep and elephant safaris while exploring dense forests and riverine landscapes, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to connect with untouched nature.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

The reserve lies at a unique ecological junction where the habitats of the Indo-Chinese and Bengal tiger overlap, significantly enhancing its biodiversity. It is home to over 40 species of mammals, including iconic predators such as the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and clouded leopard. Large herbivores like elephants, gaur, sambar, and barking deer are commonly spotted, while species such as the Himalayan black bear and binturong add to the park’s diversity. Primate populations, including capped langurs, Assamese macaques, and rhesus macaques, thrive in the forest canopies.

Birdlife in Pakke Tiger Reserve is exceptionally rich, with more than 296 recorded species, making it one of the best birdwatching destinations in the region. The reserve is particularly famous for its hornbill population, with species like the great hornbill and wreathed hornbill frequently seen along riverbanks. Rare and endangered birds such as the white-winged wood duck, Oriental bay owl, and ibisbill also inhabit the area, attracting bird enthusiasts from across the country.

In addition to mammals and birds, the reserve supports a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the endangered Assam roofed turtle and the king cobra. The ecosystem also sustains a remarkable diversity of butterflies, with estimates suggesting that around 500 species may be found here, further highlighting the region’s ecological richness.

Landscape & Climate

Pakke Tiger Reserve features a diverse and dramatic terrain that ranges from lowland forests to higher elevations between 100 and 2,000 meters above sea level. The northern part of the reserve is characterized by rugged, mountainous landscapes, while the southern region gradually slopes toward the fertile plains of the Brahmaputra River valley. The climate is subtropical, with temperatures typically ranging from 12°C to 36°C. The area receives substantial rainfall, primarily during the monsoon season, which enhances the lushness of the forest but can make travel challenging.

Safari & Visitor Experience

Exploring Pakke Tiger Reserve is an adventure in itself, with visitors able to experience the wilderness through jeep safaris and elephant safaris. These guided tours offer excellent opportunities to observe wildlife, explore dense forest trails, and gain insights into the region’s ecosystem. The experience is especially rewarding for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of Arunachal’s forests.

Travel Tips

Visitors are advised to book safaris in advance through official channels to ensure availability. Carrying light woollens is recommended, especially during early mornings and evenings when temperatures can drop. It is important to follow park guidelines and respect wildlife habitats to ensure a safe and responsible travel experience. Hiring a local guide can significantly enhance the overall visit by providing deeper insights into the flora, fauna, and culture of the region.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pakke Tiger Reserve is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The months from April to June can be warmer but are still suitable for birdwatching. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and is generally not recommended for travel due to difficult terrain conditions.

How to Reach

By Road: Pakke Tiger Reserve is well-connected by road and can be accessed via National Highway 52, following routes through Soibari, Itakhola, and Balijuri. The nearest major town is Tezpur, located approximately 64 km away, while Guwahati is about 240 km from the reserve.

By Air: Travelers arriving by air can use Tezpur Airport (TEZ) as the closest option, with additional connectivity from Itanagar and Guwahati.

By Rail: For those traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Rangapara (RPAN) located around 50 km from the reserve, from where road transport is easily available.