Situated at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in the Sonitpur district of Assam, Nameri National Park is the last home to the White-winged wood duck, the most endangered species of ducks in India. A sizable population of the winged wood ducks is known to thrive in the national park and forms an important core of the Indian population of remaining 150 odd pairs of the highly endangered species. The national park is also home to a substantial population of elephants.
Some of the other animals that can be seen here are capped langurs, wild boars, bisons, giant squirrels, black bears, leopards and sloth bears. More than 30 species of animals have been recorded in the national park. Declared a forest reserve by the government in the year 1978 and later a sanctuary in the year 1985, the flora of Nameri National Park ranges to about 600 different species. Nameri National Park is also home to birds such as hornbills, wood ducks and plovers to bee eaters and babblers making it a favorite among wildlife and nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Pakhui sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh adjoins the national park on its north-eastern side and the area is crisscrossed by the river Jia-Bhoroli and its tributaries namely the Diji, Dinai, Doigurang, Nameri, Dikorai and Kharietc.
Some of the most popular activities in the park include white water rafting and fishing. There are also several spots that are ideal for angling however, one has to obtain permission from the forest department to indulge in this activity. Families can also swim and sunbathe in certain sections of the park. The Golden Masheer fish, that grows between three and nine ft long, is famous in the region and is known as the ‘Tiger of the Himalayan Rivers’.
On the south east of the park, a 13 km stretch on river Jia Bhoreli is ideal for river rafting. The route takes around three hours and travelers often combine the trip with a picnic on the banks of the river. While trekking is a great way to see animals, you cannot trek without an armed forest department guide. The best way to see the whole park is still by safari.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN NAMERI NATIONAL PARK
While it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, there are several options available in Nameri National Park. The Eco Camp offers tented and dormitory suites and the Wild Mahseer offers luxury accommodation.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN NAMERI NATIONAL PARK
Nameri National Park’s Camp Canteen provides basic food while the restaurant serves food ranging from Indian to continental.
BEST TIME TO VISIT NAMERI NATIONAL PARK
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Nameri National Park is as given below. The best time to visit Nameri National Park is also specified.
