Dehing Patkai National Park is Known as the “Amazon of the East,” Dehing Patkai National Park is one of India’s most vibrant and biodiverse rainforests. Located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, this park is part of the larger Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary and is the only rainforest national park in India. Declared a national park in 2021, it spans lush hills, dense evergreen forests, and thriving wildlife habitats.
Overview
-
Location: Dibrugarh & Tinsukia districts, Assam
-
Established: 2021
-
Area: 234.26 sq km
-
Part of: Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve
-
Nearest Town: Digboi / Margherita
Wildlife in Dehing Patkai National Park
Dehing Patkai is home to a dazzling range of flora and fauna — from majestic elephants to rare orchids and amphibians found nowhere else.
Major Mammals
-
Asian Elephant
-
Clouded Leopard
-
Hoolock Gibbon
-
Malayan Giant Squirrel
-
Capped Langur and Barking Deer
Birdlife
A paradise for bird enthusiasts, the park shelters over 300 bird species, including:
-
Great Hornbill
-
Green Imperial Pigeon
-
Blue-throated Barbet
-
Slaty-backed Forktail
-
Hill Myna
Reptiles & Amphibians
The park’s moist evergreen environment supports pit vipers, monitor lizards, tree frogs, and many rare insects and butterflies.
Tribal Communities & Ecosystem Support
Dehing Patkai’s forests are intertwined with the lives of indigenous tribes like the Tai Phake, Singpho, and Khamti communities. These groups practice sustainable agriculture and forest conservation, respecting the sacred groves and natural balance. Their eco-friendly customs contribute significantly to the protection of the park’s fragile ecosystem.
Local Culture & Cuisine
The local communities reflect Assam’s cultural mosaic through colorful festivals and cuisine. Tourists can enjoy bamboo shoot curries, smoked fish, sticky rice, and herbal teas made from local ingredients. Visiting nearby villages offers a glimpse of traditional stilt houses, weaving, and folk art.
Key Attractions
-
Jeypore Rainforest: One of the last lowland rainforests in Assam.
-
Digboi Oil Refinery: Asia’s oldest refinery located nearby.
-
Dehing River Trails: Ideal for trekking and birdwatching.
-
Tribal Villages: Cultural experiences with Tai Phake and Singpho communities.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Dehing Patkai National Park is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant and the forest trails are accessible. Monsoon months (May to September) are best avoided due to heavy rainfall.
How to Reach
-
By Air: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport (80 km).
-
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Tinsukia (50 km).
-
By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect the park from Dibrugarh, Margherita, and Digboi.
Permits & Entry Fees
-
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indian nationals), ₹300 (foreign nationals)
-
Camera Fee: ₹100 (still), ₹250 (video)
-
Safari Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Permits can be obtained from the Forest Range Office in Digboi or Margherita.
Nearby Attractions
-
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: Known for feral horses and wetlands.
-
Namdapha National Park (Arunachal Pradesh): Biodiversity hotspot nearby.
-
Digboi Oil Museum: Historic industrial heritage site.
-
Tai Phake Village: Cultural village showcasing traditional architecture.
FAQs About Dehing Patkai National Park
1. Where is Dehing Patkai National Park located?
It is situated in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, northeastern India.
2. What is Dehing Patkai famous for?
It is known as India’s only rainforest national park, rich in biodiversity and elephant habitats.
3. Are safaris available in Dehing Patkai?
Yes, guided jungle safaris and trekking tours are available with forest permission.
4. Which tribes live near the park?
The Tai Phake, Singpho, and Khamti tribes inhabit the surrounding areas.
5. What animals can be seen in the park?
Visitors can spot elephants, hoolock gibbons, clouded leopards, and hornbills.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q1. How can I visit Dehing Patkai National Park?
Travel via Dibrugarh or Tinsukia and obtain entry permits locally.
Q2. Is Dehing Patkai National Park open all year?
It’s open between October and April; closed during monsoon.
Q3. Can I stay near Dehing Patkai?
Yes, eco-camps and forest lodges are available near Digboi and Margherita.
Q4. Why is Dehing Patkai called the Amazon of the East?
Because of its dense tropical rainforest, high rainfall, and rich biodiversity, similar to the Amazon.
Conclusion
Dehing Patkai National Park is a living testament to Assam’s natural wealth — a rainforest teeming with life, culture, and mystery. From the trumpeting elephants to the melodies of hornbills, every sound and sight here tells a story of balance between nature and humanity. For travelers seeking a blend of adventure, biodiversity, and cultural immersion, Dehing Patkai offers an unforgettable rainforest experience in the heart of Northeast India.
0 comments:
Post a Comment