Kamlang Tiger Reserve, Arunanchal Pradesh
Updated on Aug'2025
For any wildlife photographer, the allure of capturing the raw, untamed beauty of nature is a powerful draw. While India boasts many famous tiger reserves, the Kamlang Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh offers a truly unique and less-explored canvas for your lens. Tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, Kamlang is not just a sanctuary for majestic big cats but a vibrant tapestry of biodiversity and cultural heritage, waiting for its stories to be told through your photographs.
Introduction: A Photographer's Canvas in the Eastern Himalayas
Imagine dense tropical forests, serene rivers carving through rugged terrain, and the elusive glimpses of rare wildlife – this is Kamlang Tiger Reserve. Located in the southeastern part of the Lohit District and extending into Anjaw district, Arunachal Pradesh, Kamlang is a smaller sanctuary that nonetheless boasts a remarkable variety of animal and plant species. It's a place where every turn offers a potential photograph, from sweeping landscapes to intimate wildlife portraits.
History & Conservation Importance: Safeguarding a Biodiversity Hotspot
The journey of Kamlang from a wildlife sanctuary to a crucial tiger reserve is a testament to India's dedication to conservation.
Establishment and Status
The Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary was initially established in 1989.
It was officially declared a tiger reserve in 2017 (or 2016 in some sources), becoming India's 50th tiger reserve.
Eco-Sensitive Zone Designation
In a significant move in February 2024, Kamlang Tiger Reserve, along with Namdapha National Park and Pakke Tiger Reserve, was designated an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ). This designation aims to protect areas adjacent to protected zones from climate change and human activities, serving as buffer zones to enhance conservation efforts beyond the core boundaries.
A Crucial Landscape for Conservation
Kamlang is situated within the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, one of the richest regions globally for biodiversity.
It forms a part of a larger landscape complex, connected to Namdapha Tiger Reserve in the south and Kamlang Reserve Forest to the west and north, with further connections to Hukawng Wildlife Sanctuary in Myanmar. This strategic location holds the oldest tiger gene pool of the North-Eastern Hills.
The primary objective of Kamlang Tiger Reserve is the conservation and protection of the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), an endangered species. It's also crucial for protecting species like the Hoolock gibbon and hornbills.
Geography & Landscape: A Realm of Rivers, Hills, and Hidden Lakes
Kamlang's diverse topography provides a rich backdrop for photography.
Location and Terrain: The reserve is located in the southeastern part of Lohit District and spreads over parts of Anjaw district in Arunachal Pradesh, near the border with Myanmar. Its terrain is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and valleys, making it a suitable habitat for wildlife. The elevation ranges from 200 meters (656 feet) to 4,572 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level, contributing to diverse habitat types.
Rivers and Water Bodies: The reserve is named after the Kamlang River, which flows through it and eventually joins the Brahmaputra. Several other perennial rivers, including Lang, Lathi, Sinabarai, Tawa, and Lai, also flow from the reserve, forming tributaries to the Brahmaputra river system. These water sources are vital for wildlife and add immense scenic beauty.
Climate: Kamlang enjoys a sub-tropical and temperate climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September). Winters are cooler and summers humid, supporting lush forests. The climate generally remains pleasant throughout the year, allowing for visits anytime, though October to March is preferred by many for its enhanced scenic beauty and new vegetation.
Flora & Fauna: A Rich Tapestry of Life
Kamlang is a haven for biodiversity, boasting a wide array of plant and animal species that offer endless photographic opportunities.
Flora: A Green Wonderland
The vegetation varies with altitude: Alpine vegetation is found in the upper reaches, particularly around the Daphabum peak, which borders Namdapha National Park.
The lower reaches (below 1,200 meters) are dominated by tropical wet evergreen forests.
The reserve is home to approximately 150 tree species, including notable ones like Canarium resiniferum (Dhuna), Terminalia chebula (Hillika), Gmelina arborea (Gamari), and Amoora wallichii (Amari).
You can also find a wide variety of bamboos, herbs, grasses, shrubs, and about 49 species of orchids.
Endemic plant species such as Sapria himalayana and Mishmi Tita have also been identified.
Fauna: A Rich Repository of Wildlife
Kamlang is reported to have 61 species of mammals and 105 species of birds. A compiled report specifically documented 33 mammals, 37 birds, 4 snakes, 79 butterflies, 2 dragonflies, 1 spider species, and 4 floral species.
The Big Cats: Kamlang is one of the rare places in India where you can potentially spot all four big cat species: the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), and Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia). While tiger presence has been confirmed through scat DNA and occasional sightings, photo-captures during recent comprehensive surveys have been scarce.
Other Mammals: The reserve is home to a herd of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus), listed as Endangered. Other species include Hollock Gibbon (Western hoolock gibbon - Hoolock hoolock, the only ape species in India), Stump-tailed Macaque (Macaca arctoides), Capped Langur, Boar, Civets, Deer (Sambar, Barking Deer/Muntjac, Hog Deer), Malayan Giant Squirrel, and Red Giant Flying Squirrel. Rarer sightings include Mishmi Takin (Budorcus taxicolor taxicolor), Red Goral (Nemorhaedus baileyi), Yellow-throated Marten (Martes flavigula), Hoary-bellied Squirrel (Callosciurus pygerythrus), Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), Marbled Cat (Pardofelis marmorata), Asiatic Golden Cat (Catopuma temminckii), Himalayan Palm Civets, Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis), Assamese Macaque, Rhesus Macaque, Pig-tailed Macaque, and Leaf Muntjac.
Birds: Kamlang is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 100-250 species recorded. Notable species include Hornbills (Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill), the Critically Endangered White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis), Blyth’s Tragopan, Red-headed Vulture, Beautiful Nuthatch, Slender-billed Vulture, Greater Spotted Eagle, Snowy-throated Babbler, Ward’s Trogon, Blackish-breasted Babbler, Rusty-bellied Shortwing, barwing, and parrotbill. Passeriformes make up 75% of the avian diversity.
Reptiles, Amphibians, and Insects: Approximately 20 species of reptiles have been identified, with two herpetofauna species newly discovered by scientists from NCBS and BNHS. Indian Cobra, Python, Monitor Lizard, Green Frog, Brown Frog, tree frogs, and chorus frogs are also present. Over 150 species of butterflies have been recorded, with 79 species documented in a compiled report.
Unique Attractions: Beyond the Wildlife
Kamlang offers more than just animal sightings; it provides a holistic experience rooted in nature and culture.
Glow Lake: This pristine and picturesque perennial lake is a major highlight, situated at an altitude of 1,168 meters (or 5,000 feet). It is accessible by trekking, typically taking 7-8 hours or covering about 20 km from Wakro. The local Mishmi community has a spiritual belief and cultural association with the lake, adding another layer of depth to your visit.
Indigenous Communities: The region is home to major indigenous communities like the Kaman-Mishmi and Taraon-Mishmi (also referred to as Digaru Mishmi, Miju Mishmi, Hishmi, and Mizo). They are animists, worshipping elements of nature, and claim descent from "King Rukmo" of Mahabharata. They believe in an unseen God called "Suto Phenkhenynon jamalu". Their traditional practices and deep connection to the forest provide an additional advantage for long-term conservation initiatives and offer unique cultural experiences for visitors.
Parshuram Kund: Located about 20 km from Wakro, this ancient tank is a famous pilgrimage center.
Safari & Accommodation Details for Photographers
While Kamlang is gaining recognition, it offers a more intimate wildlife experience due to limited infrastructure compared to more famous reserves.
Safari Information:
Activities: Visitors can engage in wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature walks, and camping. Trekking to Glow Lake is a notable activity.
Permits: Permits are required to visit Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary and can be obtained locally.
Operating Hours & Fees: The sanctuary is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. Entry fees are INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign tourists.
Safari Vehicles: Guided safaris are available, providing opportunities for close observation of animals in their natural habitat. Electric vehicles are also available for touring.
Zones: The sources do not specify distinct safari zones within Kamlang Tiger Reserve, unlike larger, more established reserves. The 73 km² area notified for tourism within the 87 km² buffer zone is still rudimentary.
Accommodation:
Limited lodging options are available, with excellent arrangements for tourists.
Options include government-run Circuit Houses, PWD Guest Houses, Tourist Lodges, Forest Rest Houses, and Inspection Bungalows.
These are located near the sanctuary premises, with a Circuit House also in Tezu district.
Homestays are available, offering a chance to connect with Mishmi culture and genuine hospitality. Mepong Homestay, for instance, is just 2 kilometers from Kamlang Tiger Reserve headquarters in Wakro.
Kamlang Resort in Medo, Lohit district (near Tezu), offers cottages, dormitories, and camping grounds.
Travel Guide: Planning Your Expedition
Best Time to Visit: While the climate is pleasant year-round, the best time to visit is from October to April. During this period, the park is lush green with new vegetation, enhancing its scenic beauty and offering better wildlife sightings. Leeches and dimdam flies disappear, making hiking more pleasant.
Getting There:
Nearest Town: Wakro is the closest town and a circle headquarters under Namsai Sub-Division, about 70 km from Namsai town. Tezu is another nearby town.
By Road: Road connectivity is good, with visitors easily accessing the area via NH13. Regular bus services are available from Tezu and Tinsukia. Cheaper shared 'Line Sumos,' government buses, and private vehicles ply between Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, and Wakro.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Tinsukia Junction in Assam, about 140-150 kilometers away. Other nearby stations include Bargolai, Digboi, and Ledo.
By Air: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport in Assam, approximately 160-200 kilometers away, about a four-hour drive to Wakro.
Average Cost: A 3-day visit, including accommodation, food, and transportation, might cost around ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per person.
Traveler Tips:
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are limited.
Pack warm clothing, especially during winter.
Always respect wildlife and their natural habitats.
Ensure you have all necessary permits.
Engaging a local guide is highly recommended for insights into the sanctuary's vegetation and animals.
Conservation Challenges & Efforts: A Story of Dedication
Kamlang, like many protected areas, faces ongoing challenges but is backed by dedicated conservation efforts.
Challenges:
Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increased risk as human settlements encroach on boundaries, particularly with elephants and tigers.
Poaching: A serious issue for high-value species like tigers and elephants, fueled by illegal wildlife trade.
Illegal Logging: Threatens habitats.
Climate Change: May alter flora and fauna distribution, impacting ecosystem balance.
Infrastructure & Staffing: Difficult and inaccessible terrain, insufficient protection infrastructure (roads, patrolling paths, check posts, watch towers, bridges), skeletal staff (only 20 out of 46 frontline staff positions filled), inadequate financial resources, unserviceable arms, and lack of modern equipment like binoculars and M-STrIPES-compatible phones.
Limited Services: Lack of a sanctioned veterinary doctor, rudimentary tourist facilities, and no effective mechanism for visitor feedback. Eco-development committees (EDCs) and self-help groups (SHGs) are in preliminary or stand-alone stages.
Research Gaps: Not many studies have been carried out despite being a biodiversity hotspot with many unidentified species. Studies on carbon storage, capture, and loss related to climate-resilient forestry are also needed.
Efforts & Initiatives:
Project Tiger: Kamlang's designation as a Tiger Reserve in 2017 brought it under the Project Tiger Initiative, providing formal protection.
Anti-Poaching: Efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict, controlling poaching, and strengthening anti-poaching patrols. More anti-poaching camps are needed.
Community Involvement: Encouraging communities to realize the value of wildlife through tourism. Promoting eco-development committees (EDCs) and linking self-help groups (SHGs) with institutional mechanisms for sustainable livelihoods. WCS India is conducting a Local Ecological Knowledge study in villages around KTR to record population trends of tigers and prey as perceived by local communities.
Documentation & Awareness: A compiled report titled "Kamlang Tiger Reserve: At a Glance" has documented species and cultural diversity. This pictorial handbook is valuable for research and promoting eco-tourism. Awareness campaigns and outreach activities for wildlife conservation are conducted.
Digital Initiatives: The Kamlang Tiger Reserve website (https://kamlangtigerreserve.org) was launched in April 2025 as a comprehensive resource for biodiversity, conservation programs, visitor guidelines, and ecotourism facilitation. The reserve is working on preparing brochures and signage for visitors.
Collaborations: WCS India is developing a documentary film showcasing the cultural linkages that communities living around KTR share with the tiger, forest, and nature, in collaboration with Dusty Foot Productions. Aaranyak has facilitated the first-of-its-kind training in Arunachal Pradesh for Hoolock gibbon conservation.
Photography in Kamlang: Capturing the Unseen
Kamlang, though less frequented, holds immense potential for impactful wildlife photography.
Famous Tigers and Their Stories: Unlike some of India's more famous tiger reserves where individual tigers have 'celebrity' status and unique stories (e.g., Munna in Kanha National Park), the sources do not highlight specific "famous tigers" or their detailed stories within Kamlang Tiger Reserve. This offers photographers a chance to document and contribute to the emerging narrative of the reserve's tiger population. During the 2022 national tiger estimation, no tigers were photo-captured in Kamlang Tiger Reserve, though a tiger was photographed during routine monitoring in 2020, and tiger presence was confirmed by scat DNA in 2018.
Focus Areas for Photographers:
Elusive Species: The presence of all four big cat species, including the elusive Snow Leopard and Clouded Leopard, offers a significant challenge and reward for dedicated photographers.
Rare Fauna: Capturing the critically endangered White-bellied Heron or the unique Hoolock Gibbon could be a major photographic achievement.
Untamed Landscapes: The rugged terrain, perennial rivers, and the tranquil Glow Lake provide stunning landscape photography opportunities.
Conservation Stories: Documenting the ongoing conservation efforts, the challenges faced by the staff, and the symbiotic relationship of the Mishmi communities with the forest can create powerful photo essays that raise awareness and inspire action. Images that show the lives of local communities who rely on tourism jobs due to displacement from core areas can add another dimension to your story.
Undocumented Biodiversity: As many species are yet to be identified or comprehensively documented, photographers have a chance to contribute to scientific records, especially for birds and butterflies.
Advice to Photographers: Capturing Kamlang Responsibly
Equipment:
Bring a camera with a good ISO range and a lens with a wide f-stop (wide aperture) for low-light conditions, as tigers are often sighted at dawn and dusk.
Telephoto lenses (e.g., 70-200mm and 150-600mm) are recommended for safaris.
A power bank is essential to keep your devices charged during long safaris.
Consider a small bean bag to prop your camera on the jeep's roll bar for stability.
Technique & Approach:
Be lightning-fast with your decisions and use a fast shutter speed to capture quick motions.
Knowledge of animal behavior is crucial to predict and plan your shots; rely on the expertise of your naturalist or guide.
Aim for photo essays—a set of images that together form a coherent narrative, rather than just standalone shots.
Ethical Photography Guidelines:
NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY: This is strictly prohibited inside the sanctuary as it can startle animals, impact their behavior, and negatively affect future sightings. Increase your ISO settings for low-light situations instead.
Maintain Distance: Keep a minimum distance of 20 meters from all wildlife, and ensure a minimum of 50 meters between vehicles when spotting wildlife.
Respect Wildlife: Do not feed, touch, tease, or provoke animals. Avoid disturbing their natural routine or behavior.
Stay in Vehicles: It is crucial not to stand up or exit the safari vehicle without the guide's permission.
Minimize Disturbance: Jeeps should not exceed 20 km/h in national parks, and noise levels should be kept to a minimum.
Cultural Sensitivity: When photographing local communities, be culturally sensitive regarding dress and interactions. Remember that the work of local staff is more important than your photography.
Responsible Tourism: Support local initiatives by staying at homestays, eating locally, and using local guides to contribute to their livelihoods and foster a shared commitment to conservation. Avoid supporting activities that involve mistreatment of animals as photographic props or entertainment.
Sharing Your Work: Your images can spread awareness and promote ethical wildlife tourism. Consider sharing your stories through personal blogs, social media, or submitting to online/print magazines and nature photography competitions.
Kamlang Tiger Reserve presents a raw, authentic, and rewarding experience for wildlife photographers. By respecting its wilderness and supporting its conservation, you can not only capture stunning images but also contribute to the vital efforts of preserving this ecological treasure.
Important Links for Visitors:
Kamlang Tiger Reserve & Wildlife Sanctuary Official Website: https://kamlangtigerreserve.org
National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): For general information on tiger reserves and conservation efforts in India.
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS India): Involved in tiger conservation efforts around KTR.
Aaranyak: Facilitates Hoolock gibbon conservation training in the region.
Tour My India: Provides information on Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary.
Tripoto: Offers details on exploring Wakro and Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary.
3-Day Photography Safari Plan to Kamlang Tiger Reserve from Delhi
Day 1: Travel from Delhi to Wakro & Arrival at Kamlang's Doorstep
Morning (Travel):
Fly from Delhi to Mohanbari Airport (Dibrugarh), Assam. Dibrugarh is the nearest airport to Kamlang, approximately 176 km from Wakro.
Upon arrival, hire a taxi or use public transport (APST buses) from Dibrugarh or Tinsukia Railway Junction (138.4 km from Wakro) to Wakro town. The drive from Dibrugarh airport to Wakro is about four hours.
Afternoon (Arrival & Settling In):
Check into your accommodation in Wakro. Mepong Homestay, located just 2 km from the Kamlang Tiger Reserve headquarters in Wakro, is suggested as an ideal base for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Initiate contact with the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Kamlang Tiger Reserve (Contact number: 08974214193) or the Range Forest Officer (RFO) of Kamlang Range (Contact number: 09612461175, Wakro – 792102). Given the online booking system is under testing, direct communication is crucial to arrange your safari permits and discuss guided tours.
Evening (Preparation):
Meet with your assigned local guide for the next day's safari. Discuss the plan, species you hope to photograph, and specific photography strategies based on the guide's knowledge of recent sightings and animal behavior.
Prepare your camera gear, ensuring batteries are fully charged and memory cards are clear. Pack your daypack with essentials for the early morning safari.
Day 2: Immersive Wildlife Photography in Kamlang Tiger Reserve
Early Morning (First Safari - Jeep):
Begin your jeep safari into Kamlang Tiger Reserve. The reserve is about 4 km from Wakro. Safari charges typically range from INR 1000-3000 per person, and entry fees are minimal (INR 50 for adults).
Focus on capturing the dense tropical wet evergreen forests and diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for tiger signs, as confirmed tiger presence has been established through scat DNA, even if direct photographic captures were not noted in a recent large-scale survey.
Utilize your telephoto lenses for distant subjects and be prepared for low-light conditions common at dawn. Remember to avoid flash photography.
Mid-day (Rest & Review):
Return to your homestay for rest and lunch.
Review your morning's photographs. This is also a good time to consult with your guide about potential afternoon sightings or specific areas to focus on.
Afternoon (Second Safari / Alternative Exploration):
Embark on another jeep safari in a different zone of the reserve, or opt for a birdwatching or butterfly walk with a local nature guide. Over 200 bird species and more than 150 butterfly species have been recorded.
Consider a trek to Glaw Lake if time and permits allow, which is a picturesque perennial lake situated at an altitude of 1,168 m and can be reached by a 7-8 hour trek.
Alternatively, explore the buffer areas, which are critical for conservation and offer unique insights into the broader ecosystem.
Evening (Cultural Immersion):
Experience the local Kaman-Mishmi and Taraon-Mishmi cultures, who are the indigenous communities inhabiting the region. This could involve visiting a local village or enjoying traditional cuisine.
Day 3: Final Exploration / Departure Preparation
Morning (Flexible Activity):
Depending on your interests and previous day's success, you could:
Take a final morning safari focusing on specific species or areas.
Engage in a nature walk within the accessible parts of the sanctuary to explore the flora, including unique species like Sapria himalayana and Mishmi Tita.
Spend time in Wakro itself, known for its oranges and organic green tea.
Photographers should remember to practice patience, as wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Late Morning / Early Afternoon (Departure Preparation):
Conclude your activities at Kamlang Tiger Reserve.
Ensure all your belongings are packed.
Start your journey back to Mohanbari Airport (Dibrugarh) for your flight to Delhi, or proceed to Tinsukia Railway Junction if traveling by train.
What to Pack for Your Safari (Photographer's Checklist):
Essential Documents: Passport & Visa, Safari Permits & Park Entry Tickets (arranged with DFO), Travel Insurance details, Emergency contact information.
Clothing: Neutral-colored, lightweight, and comfortable clothing for safaris. Layers are advisable for chilly mornings. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Photography Gear:
Camera body with good ISO performance.
Telephoto lenses (e.g., 70-200mm, 150-600mm).
Plenty of spare batteries and a power bank.
Multiple memory cards.
Lens cleaning kit.
Small bean bag for camera stability on the jeep.
Dust cover for camera and lens.
Health & Safety: Prescription medicines, a basic first aid kit, anti-allergy & stomach medicines, insect repellent, sunscreen, and lip balm.
Convenience: Reusable water bottle, energy bars/snacks, flashlight or headlamp, notebook and pen for jotting down sightings, and a field guidebook on Indian wildlife. A small daypack for safaris and a wheeled suitcase or travel backpack for overall travel.
Currency: Extra cash or UPI balance for tips and small purchases.
This plan provides a structured yet flexible itinerary, keeping in mind the specific characteristics of Kamlang Tiger Reserve and the needs of a wildlife photographer.
Kamlang Tiger Reserve (KTR) in Arunachal Pradesh is divided into distinct zones, primarily a core area and a buffer area, each with specific characteristics and rules that wildlife photographers should be aware of.
Overview of Kamlang Tiger Reserve Zones
Kamlang Tiger Reserve encompasses a total area of 783 square kilometers. This is further divided into:
Core Area: A central region designated for strict conservation.
Buffer Area: A peripheral zone surrounding the core, intended to foster co-existence between wildlife and human activities, and support sustainable tourism.
Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Declared in 2024, this zone extends around the reserve's boundaries, acting as an additional protective layer.
Detailed Elaboration of Zones for Wildlife Photographers
1. Core Area
The core area of Kamlang Tiger Reserve measures 696 square kilometers. Some sources also indicate it as 671 sq km. This zone is meant to be inviolate for tiger conservation.
Photographic Considerations in the Core Area:
Restricted Access & Activities: Direct access and certain activities are highly regulated or prohibited to maintain the area's ecological integrity. Film shooting is generally not permitted in core or critical tiger habitats to safeguard wildlife interests.
Limited Infrastructure: The core area has minimal infrastructure, including only four anti-poaching camps, which are mainly confined to border areas and not deep inside the reserve. This means large parts are not easily accessible or regularly patrolled.
Low-Impact Tourism: While conservation is paramount, regulated, low-impact tourism may be permitted in designated tourism zones within the core area, provided it does not exceed 20% of the core habitat usage. However, no new tourism infrastructure is allowed in core areas.
No Habitat Manipulation for Tourism: Management practices to increase animal abundance solely for tourism are not permitted.
No Tourist Patrolling: Tourists are not allowed to patrol core habitats due to safety risks and the need to keep sensitive information confidential.
Wilderness Experience: Due to its inviolate nature and difficult terrain, the core offers a truly wild and authentic experience. However, this also implies that sightings, especially of elusive animals like tigers, are never guaranteed and depend heavily on luck and patience [previous conversation].
Wildlife Potential in the Core Area: The core area, along with connecting forests and Namdapha National Park, forms a larger landscape crucial for the conservation of large cats such as the Bengal Tiger, Common Leopard, and Clouded Leopard. While no tigers were photo-captured in Kamlang TR during the 2022 survey, their presence has been confirmed through scat DNA analysis in previous years (2018) and routine monitoring (2020).
2. Buffer Area
The buffer area of Kamlang Tiger Reserve measures 87 square kilometers. Some sources mention 112 sq km. This area surrounds the core and is managed with a "lesser degree of habitat protection" to allow for co-existence between wildlife and human activities.
Photographic Considerations in the Buffer Area:
Tourism Focus: The buffer and peripheral areas are encouraged for ecotourism to benefit local communities. The state government has designated 73 square kilometers for tourism within the buffer zone.
Guided Safaris: Safari rides are available, and tourists can hire guides, drivers, and hikers, although the current system for this is informal and needs formalization by the tiger reserve management. A driver familiar with the reserve's topography and a naturalist with knowledge of flora and fauna are crucial for photographers to position themselves for the best shots.
Access Points: The sanctuary can be approached via Wakro town, which is a small town and circle headquarters. Mepong Homestay, located just 2 kilometers from the KTR headquarters in Wakro, serves as an ideal base for exploring the reserve.
Rudimentary Facilities: Despite designated tourism areas, tourist facilities are described as rudimentary and require upgrading.
Designated Paths: Visitors are advised to stay on designated paths [previous conversation].
Photography Rules: No flash photography is allowed to avoid disturbing wildlife. A safe distance (minimum 20 meters) should be maintained from animals, and they should not be disturbed, chased, or fed [previous conversation, 362]. Mobile phones should be silent [previous conversation].
Wildlife Potential in the Buffer Area: The buffer zone, like the core, is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, supporting a wide array of species. Photographers may encounter:
Mammals: Besides the four big cats (Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Snow Leopard), other species include Hoolock Gibbon, Elephant, Wild Boar, Sambar, Barking Deer, Malayan Giant Squirrel, Red Giant Flying Squirrel, Mishmi Takin, Red Goral, Yellow-throated Marten, Hoary-bellied Squirrel, Capped Langur, Stump-tailed Macaque, Civets, and Himalayan Palm Civets.
Birds: Kamlang is a "birdwatcher's paradise" with over 200 species recorded, including Hornbills, Blyth’s Tragopan, and the Red-headed Vulture. A recent survey identified 68 bird species.
Butterflies: Over 150 species of butterflies have been recorded. "Butterfly Walks & Nature Trails" are organized, with approximately 20 species identified during one such event.
3. Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ)
Kamlang Tiger Reserve was declared an Eco-Sensitive Zone in 2024. This zone extends from 0 to 11.92 kilometers around the reserve boundary, covering an area of 450.39 square kilometers. In areas bordering Myanmar (East and South), the ESZ is 0 km as the boundary is contiguous with the international border.
Purpose and Photographic Relevance:
Buffer Function: The ESZ acts as a buffer to the protected areas, aiming to safeguard ecosystems from climate change and human activities. The entire buffer zone is intended to be included in the ESZ.
Sustainable Practices: This designation promotes sustainable development and conservation. While specific tourism activities are usually delineated in a Zonal Master Plan, the general intent is to control human impact and promote responsible tourism.
Photography Potential: The ESZ would encompass fringe areas and corridors that are important for wildlife movement. These areas can offer opportunities for capturing various species, including those that disperse from the core, without directly impacting the most sensitive habitats.
Specific Points of Interest for Photographers within/near KTR:
Glaw Lake (Glow Lake): A picturesque perennial lake at an altitude of 1,168 meters (approximately 5,000 feet). It covers about 8 square kilometers. It's a major attraction, but its accessibility is limited as it's only reachable by a 7-8 hour trek, and the lack of a proper trekking route can deter most tourists. Wildlife like elephants, tigers, and Hoolock Gibbons are known to use the lake.
Kamlang River: The reserve is named after this river, which flows through it. The riverbanks are an excellent spot for "mud-puddling" butterflies, which gather in flocks for nutrients. Birding is also possible along trails that follow the river.
Sinbarai Camp: A short 1 km tourism track is available here.
Watchtowers and Salt Licks: There are watchtowers along some trails, offering good vantage points for birders. Salt licks in the reserve are places where predator signs can readily be seen.
Indigenous Mishmi Communities: The Kaman-Mishmi and Taraon-Mishmi tribes inhabit this region. They have a deep connection with the forest and can offer unique cultural insights, which may be of interest for cultural photography.
Best Time for Photography: The winter months, from November to February, are considered the best time to visit for pleasant weather and abundant wildlife sightings. During this period, the forest is more hospitable due to the disappearance of leeches and "dimdam flies," which can make hiking unpleasant during monsoons. The dry season from October to April is generally recommended.
Be prepared for the rugged terrain and the possibility of limited direct tiger sightings. Patience and the expertise of your naturalist guide are key for predicting animal behavior and positioning for shots .
