Pallas’s Cat Photographed for the First Time in Arunachal Pradesh | Rare Himalayan Discovery

First-Ever Photo Evidence of Pallas’s Cat in India’s Eastern Himalayas

📍 West Kameng & Tawang Districts, Arunachal Pradesh
🔍 WWF-India & Forest Department Survey

For the first time ever, researchers have captured the elusive Pallas’s Cat (Otocolobus manul) on camera in Arunachal Pradesh — a remarkable discovery that expands the known range of this mysterious feline across the Himalayas. 

This rare sighting happened at nearly 5,000 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest-altitude records globally! The same study also documented five other wild cat species — including snow leopards, marbled cats, and clouded leopards — revealing the stunning diversity of India’s mountain wildlife.

Why It Matters for Wildlife Tourism

• Marks a major range extension for the species in India.

• Proves that Arunachal’s high-altitude rangelands are biodiversity hotspots.

• Shows that local communities and science can work hand-in-hand for conservation.

 As climate change and human pressures grow, this discovery reminds us: India’s lesser-known mountains still hold secrets worth protecting. 

Nearby attractions for wildlife and nature lovers include:

• Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary

• Mishmi Hills Trek

• Mayodia Pass

Travel Tips for Wildlife Lovers

• Best Time to Visit: October – April (for high-altitude wildlife treks).

• Permits: Foreign tourists need an ILP (Inner Line Permit) or PAP (Protected Area Permit) to visit Arunachal.

• Stay Options: Homestays in Anini, eco-lodges near Dibang Valley, and camping for trekkers.

• Guides: Always travel with local guides for safe treks and better wildlife spotting.

 Conclusion

The discovery of the Pallas’s Cat in Arunachal Pradesh is a milestone — for wildlife research, for our understanding of high-altitude ecosystems in the Himalayas, and for conservation in the region. It serves as a potent reminder that even in the 21st century, there remain species and ecosystems in India that are still poorly understood. With targeted efforts — combining science, local ecological knowledge and conservation action — the region’s fragile biodiversity can be better safeguarded.