Hidden within Arunachal's densely forested mountains lies the only home to four big cats&ndashtigers, leopards, snow leopards and clouded leopards. However, there's much more to Namdapha National Park than its wild inhabitants. A confluence of two words&ndashNam, meaning water and Dapha, derived from the peak Daphabum&ndashthe park nestles you in the state's abundant natural charm. Located a few km away and above the quaint, bustling town of Miao, Namdapha National Park allows you to breathe in a few stolen moments of solace.
To reach the park, you will find yourself twirling around the rugged narrow paths painstakingly created around the hills of the Changlang district. Since it is located on the international border, which separates India from Myanmar, it is easy to feel untethered by worldly identities. However, that's not the only reason why you may feel so. As you embark on the journey upwards, passing by the turbulent Noa-Dihing river flowing to Assam, the mobile network begins to disappear till there is none. However, the beauty of the azure waters, misty mountains and echoing chirps quickly distract you. Even though it was one of the first destinations I visited as a part of the "Explore Beyond" campaign&ndasha four-day women's biking expedition&ndashintroduced by the state tourism board, it prepared me for the state's beauty that I was yet to explore.
The Namdapha National Park, although famed to be the world's only forest with four big cats, also boasts numerous unique species of birds, reptiles, wild animals, and plants. Apparently, there are 150 timber species all across the 1985.23 sq km area. Apart from that, species of plants not found elsewhere in India, like the pinus merkusi and abies delavavi are found here. Even one of the most unique and endangered orchids, Blue Vanda, also blooms here. Although the four big cats it's known for may be difficult to spot, for they are skilled at deception, other animals like pig-tailed macaque, stump-tailed macaque, and Assamese macaque can be seen here easily. Apart from that, elephants, black bears and many arboreal animals have found their homes in the forest. Apart from that, birdwatchers can spend hours here spotting interesting species like the endangered white-winged wood ducks and others like the great Indian hornbill, jungle fowls and pheasants.
Nearest airport Dibrugarh Airport, located 182 km away
Nearest railway station Tinsukia Railway Station, 141 km away
By road Well-connected to Dibrugarh, Margherita, Ledo and Kharsang
Best time to visit October to April
Accommodation You can book a stay at the Deban Forest Rest House, which has 11 rooms in a riverside bungalow overlooked by the forest department. However, do ensure to book in advance.
Entry fees Rs 10 per head