Pakhui Tiger Reserve – The Hornbill Haven

Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Pakhui Tiger Reserve—also known as Pakke Tiger Reserve—is one of the most biodiverse and ecologically rich protected areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Spread over 862 sq. km, the reserve lies in the Pakke Kessang District and is bordered by the Kameng River to the west and north and the Pakke River to the east.

Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1977 and upgraded to a Tiger Reserve in 2002, Pakhui is a jewel of Northeast India’s wilderness. It is managed by the Department of Environment & Forests, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and is celebrated for its remarkable conservation initiatives—winning the Indian Biodiversity Award 2016 for its efforts in protecting the threatened Hornbill species.

The reserve’s pristine forests, meandering rivers, and rich wildlife make it one of the most captivating offbeat destinations for eco-tourism, birdwatching, and nature photography in the Northeast.

Flora and Fauna

Pakhui Tiger Reserve is a paradise for naturalists. The forest ecosystem includes tropical semi-evergreen, evergreen, and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests. Over 1,500 species of vascular plants have been recorded here, of which about 500 are woody species.

The wildlife population is equally fascinating. Around 40 species of mammals inhabit the park, including Royal Bengal Tigers, Leopards, and Clouded Leopards among the apex predators. Herbivores such as Asian Elephants, Barking Deer, Sambar, and Gaur are frequently sighted during safaris.

Pakhui is also known as the Land of Hornbills, with over 290 recorded bird species, including the Great Hornbill, White-winged Wood Duck, Oriental Bay Owl, and the elusive Ibisbill. The forests also support over 500 butterfly species and 36 species of reptiles, adding to their immense ecological diversity.

Visitor Experience

The reserve offers a blend of wildlife and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy:

• Jeep safaris through the dense forests for wildlife viewing.

• Birdwatching tours, especially for hornbill sightings.

• Nature trails and short treks through pristine jungle landscapes.

• Cultural programs by local tribal communities, offering glimpses of Arunachal’s rich traditions.

Accommodation options include forest rest houses and private eco-lodges located within 4–5 km of the park boundary, offering basic yet comfortable stays amid nature.

Getting There

The nearest major town to Pakhui Tiger Reserve is Tezpur (Assam), which also has the closest airport—Tezpur Airport (Salonibari)—offering flights to Guwahati and Kolkata.

From Tezpur, the reserve can be reached by state transport buses or shared taxis via Bhalukpong and Seijosa, the entry points to the park. The reserve is also accessible from Itanagar by road through Soibar, which connects with local transport routes.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Pakhui Tiger Reserve is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant, wildlife sightings are frequent, and the landscape bursts with vibrant colours of blooming flora.

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