Image Source: Sunil Dasari
About Pakke Tiger Reserve
Spread across 862 square kilometres in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Pakke Tiger Reserve, is a thriving hotspot of Himalayan biodiversity.
Encircled by the Himalayan foothills, bordered by the Kameng River in the west and the Pakke River in the east, this sanctuary is famous for its lush semi-evergreen forests, rich birdlife, and thriving tiger population. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2002 under Project Tiger, Pakhui is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, and conservation travellers seeking to explore the untamed wilderness of Northeast India.
Unique Experiences & Things to Do
Wildlife Safaris & Tiger Tracking – Explore the forest trails by jeep or on foot with trained naturalists. Spot Bengal tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, Himalayan black bears, and the rare clouded leopard.
Birding Paradise – Pakhui is home to more than 300 bird species, including the great hornbill, wreathed hornbill, white-winged wood duck, and the elusive ibisbill.
Nature Trekking – Walk through moss-covered Sal forests, cane brakes, and bamboo thickets, while keeping an eye out for the golden mahseer in river pools.
Hornbill Nest Adoption Program – Join community conservation initiatives by the Nyishi tribe, who have transformed traditional hunting into hornbill protection efforts.
River Exploration – Gentle rafting on the Kameng River for a different view of the forest and its wildlife.
History & Conservation Significance
Originally notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1977, Pakhui gained Tiger Reserve status in 2002. Its location within the Eastern Himalaya Biodiversity Hotspot makes it a critical refuge for rare and endangered species. The local Nyishi tribal communities once hunted hornbills for their beaks but, through innovative conservation partnerships, have become guardians of the forest. Today, Pakhui is internationally recognized for community-led wildlife protection models.
How to Reach Pakhui (Pakke) Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Town: Seijosa (sanctuary entrance point)
By Air: Tezpur Airport (Assam) ~50 km from Seijosa, connected to Guwahati.
By Rail: Banderdewa or Harmuti Railway Stations are the closest railheads.
By Road: Regular buses and taxis from Itanagar, Tezpur, and Guwahati to Seijosa. 4×4 vehicles are recommended for forest exploration.
Best Time to Visit
November to April: Dry season with good wildlife visibility and pleasant weather.
Avoid May–October: Monsoon rains cause swollen rivers and slippery forest paths, though the forest looks stunningly green.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Permits: Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for Indians; Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners.
Guides & Naturalists: Hire local eco-guides for better wildlife spotting and cultural insights.
Stay Options: Forest rest houses, eco-camps at Seijosa, and homestays in Nyishi villages.
Photography Gear: Telephoto lens for birds and mammals, waterproof camera bag for river trips.
Responsible Travel: Avoid plastic, respect wildlife distance, and support local conservation programs.
Why Pakhui is Special
Pakhui is more than just a tiger reserve. it’s a living classroom on how humans and wildlife can share space through respect and cooperation. Here, Nyishi folklore blends with the calls of hornbills, rivers carve through untouched forests, and every bend in the trail feels like stepping into a hidden kingdom of the Eastern Himalayas. For travelers, it’s an ideal blend of wild adventure, cultural connection, and conservation tourism.