Exploring the wilderness of eastern Arunachal Pradesh
The wilderness of Arunachal Pradesh captivates with its lush evergreen forests, mesmerizing hills, and meandering rivulets, forming a breathtaking tapestry of nature. Within this scenic landscape, Changlang District resides in the easternmost part of India, nestled amidst picturesque hills, and sharing its international border with Myanmar (Burma). The natural beauty of Changlang is unmatched, as it encompasses a vast range of latitudinal variation, spanning from 200 meters to 4,500 meters above sea level. Another noteworthy district in Arunachal Pradesh is Lohit, which covers an area of 3735 sq/km, further adding to the region's significance.
A Paradise for Seasonal Visitors
In the different districts of Arunachal, you'll find some truly breathtaking places that attract many visitors throughout the year. Let's take a closer look at three of these amazing locations, which are particularly worth exploring.
Contributing to the biodiversity hotspot of Arunachal Pradesh, Namdapha National Park, Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary and Jairampur Forest Division can be considered as jewels within India's natural landscape.
Namdapha National Park: A Wilderness of Breathtaking Diversity
Namdapha, surrounded by the Patkai hills to the south & southeast and the Himalayas to the north, is one of the last great remote wilderness areas of Asia. Its vast expanse stretches across the international boundary with Myanmar, connecting with other protected areas, including the recently declared Hukawng Valley Tiger Reserve.
The park's altitudinal range, spanning from 200 meters to 4,571 meters at Dapha Bum, showcases its mountainous terrain. The Noa-Dihing River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River, meanders through the park, adding to its splendour. Untouched by human exploration, except by local hunters, the park holds unexplored interior and higher areas, contributing to its mystique. Bordering Namdapha to the north is the Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, encompassing steep mountainous terrain, rivers, and streams.
Namdapha's Flora and Fauna: A Treasure Trove of Biodiversity
The dense vegetation of Namdapha nurtures a diverse array of plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Botanists consider Namdapha a dream come true, with more than 150 timber species and unique finds like Pinus merkusi and Abies delavavi. The park is also home to rare and endangered orchids, including the elusive Blue Vanda.
Among its wildlife, Namdapha boasts an extraordinary distinction – it is the only park in the world to host four feline species: the Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard, and Clouded Leopard. Other notable inhabitants include primates such as Assamese macaques, pig-tailed macaques, stump-tailed macaques, and the highly endangered Hoolock Gibbons, India's only 'ape' species. Elephants, black bears, Indian bison, various deer species, reptiles, and arboreal creatures add to the park's richness.
Birdwatchers are treated to sights of the rare White-winged Wood Ducks, great Indian hornbills, jungle fowls, and colorful avian species that grace the lush forests. The park's pristine and untouched areas have contributed to the preservation of its flora and fauna, creating a remarkable sight for visitors.
Kamlang
Wildlife Sanctuary: Nature's Splendor in Lohit District
Located in the southeastern part of Lohit District, Arunachal Pradesh, the Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery and abundant water sources. The sanctuary owes its name to the Kamlang River, which flows through its lush landscapes before joining the Brahmaputra. The sanctuary's location, terrain, and perennial water bodies make it a truly incomparable destination.
Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary lies between the Lang River to the north and the renowned Namdapha National Park to the south, and can be reached via the Namsai Wakro road.
This sanctuary harbors all four big cat species – the Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, and Snow Leopard. It also provides a habitat for endangered species such as the Hollock Gibbon, Slow Loris, Leopard Cat, and Himalayan Palm Civet. The pilgrimage center of Parasuram Kund, located approximately 20 kilometers from Wakro, holds significant religious and tourist importance. Efforts are underway to develop this area further as a prominent tourist destination.
Jairampur:
A Historic Town on the Stilwell Road
Located in the Jairampur sub-division, is a small town of significant historical importance. It is traversed by the iconic Stilwell Road, a route that stretches from Ledo, Assam, India to Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. Just 6 kilometers away from Jairampur, there is a World War II cemetery housing around 1,000 graves of Allied soldiers, serving as a poignant reminder of the town's historical significance. The Jairampur Forest Division exhibits favorable conditions such as rainfall, temperature, and high humidity, leading to the development of vegetation with characteristics similar to Tropical Evergreen Forests, despite its location north of the geographical tropics.
Changlang District has a lot to offer for people who love nature and history. It has beautiful landscapes, diverse plants and animals, and interesting historical places. You can visit Namdapha National Park to see its wild and untouched beauty, explore Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary to see its amazing wildlife, and learn about the history of Jairampur. Changlang District's natural wonders will leave a lasting impression on you as you discover the secrets of this special part of India.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of The Critical Script or its editor.
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