Image Source: Doniv79
About Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kokrajhar and Dhubri districts of Assam, is a pristine ecological haven renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique avifauna. Spread across lush forested hills, grasslands, and wetlands, it is one of the few sanctuaries dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Golden Langur, a rare primate species found only in Bhutan and Assam.
Apart from primates, the sanctuary is also famous as a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting a variety of resident and migratory birds that flock here during the winter months. For nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife photographers, Chakrashila offers a perfect blend of wilderness and serenity.
Layout of Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary covers an area of about 45.5 square kilometers and is spread over small hill ranges with patches of semi-evergreen forests, bamboo groves, and open grasslands. Water bodies such as Dheer Beel and Diplai Beel wetlands lie in close proximity, making it a key habitat for migratory birds. The forest is interspersed with narrow trails that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty on foot or by jeep safaris. The hilly terrain, combined with wetlands, supports a wide variety of species including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and hundreds of bird species.
Key Attractions at Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
Golden Langur Conservation – The sanctuary is one of the last strongholds of the endangered Golden Langur, an emblematic species of Assam.
Migratory Birds – Wetlands near the sanctuary attract seasonal visitors like Ruddy Shelducks, Pintails, Open-billed Storks, and Lesser Adjutant Storks, making it an ornithologist’s delight.
Flora Diversity – The forest is rich in medicinal plants, bamboo, orchids, and rare herbs, supporting a healthy ecosystem.
Other Wildlife – Apart from langurs, animals like leopards, barking deer, porcupines, and civets inhabit the forest.
Wetland Ecosystem – Diplai Beel and Dheer Beel serve as lifelines of the sanctuary, nurturing both aquatic life and birdlife.
How to Reach Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (about 220 km away). From there, taxis and buses are available to Kokrajhar.
By Train: The closest railway station is Kokrajhar Railway Station (about 7 km away), well connected to Guwahati, New Jalpaiguri, and other major cities.
By Road: The sanctuary is easily accessible via National Highway 31C, with regular buses and taxis available from Guwahati (220 km) and Bongaigaon (40 km).