Dehing Patkai National Park

Dehing Patkai National Park In Assam, India

Dehing Patkai National Park, located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, India, is a biodiversity hotspot and the only rainforest in Assam. Covering an area of 231.65 square kilometers, it was officially designated a national park in 2021, making it one of the newest national parks in India.

Often referred to as the “Amazon of the East,” Dehing Patkai is part of the larger Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve, which provides a crucial corridor for elephants and other wildlife. The park is characterized by lush tropical evergreen forests, rolling hills, and an abundance of flora and fauna, making it one of the most important conservation areas in Northeast India.

The forest is home to over 400 species of trees, including Hollong (Assam’s state tree), Mekai, Nahar, and wild banana, along with a wide variety of orchids, ferns, and medicinal plants. The dense rainforest, with towering trees and a thick canopy, supports a rich ecosystem that remains largely undisturbed. Dehing Patkai is particularly famous for its diverse mammalian population, including Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, golden cats, marbled cats, wild boars, Himalayan black bears, and barking deer.

The park is also home to India’s highest diversity of wild cat species, with at least seven species coexisting within its boundaries. For birdwatchers, Dehing Patkai offers an exceptional experience, with over 300 species of birds, including the great hornbill, wreathed hornbill, white-winged wood duck, drongo cuckoo, and various species of woodpeckers.

The park is also a haven for reptiles and amphibians, including king cobras, Indian pythons, and various species of frogs and lizards. One of the unique aspects of Dehing Patkai is its historical and cultural significance, as the region was once a major center for the Assam Tea Industry and coal mining activities during British rule.

Visitors can also explore old World War II-era airstrips, abandoned railway tracks, and the historic Stilwell Road, which connected India to Myanmar and China during the war. The best time to visit Dehing Patkai National Park is between November and April, when the weather is cooler and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

The park is accessible via Dibrugarh or Tinsukia, which are the nearest towns with good road and railway connectivity. Dehing Patkai National Park stands as a symbol of Assam’s commitment to rainforest conservation, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of India’s most pristine and ecologically significant rainforests. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers.

Flora And Fauna

• White-Winged Duck
• Slow Loris