Pakke Tiger Reserve, Arunanchal Pradesh
Updated on Aug'2025
Capturing the Wild Heart of Arunachal: A Photographer's Journey Through Pakke Tiger Reserve
As a conservation photojournalist, my lens is a storyteller, seeking to reveal the wonders of nature and the vital efforts to protect them. My latest journey took me to the verdant expanse of Pakke Tiger Reserve (PTR), a truly exceptional sanctuary nestled in the Eastern Himalayan foothills of Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India. This hidden gem offers not just breathtaking landscapes but an intimate connection with India's untamed wilderness, making it an irresistible destination for any wildlife photographer.
A Legacy Forged in Conservation
Pakke Tiger Reserve, also known as Pakhui Tiger Reserve, has a rich and compelling history. It began its life as Pakhui Reserve Forest on July 1, 1966, later becoming a Game Sanctuary on March 28, 1977. In a significant step for conservation, it was renamed Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary in 2001 and officially designated as India's 26th Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger on April 23, 2002.
The reserve's transformation from a place once plagued by poaching and illegal felling into a thriving conservation success story is truly remarkable. This turnaround, notably kick-started around 2004, is largely due to the commendable initiatives of the forest department and the deep involvement of local communities, particularly the indigenous Nyishi tribe. The Nyishi people hold tigers as elder brothers and even perform rituals like 'Shradh' for deceased tigers, demonstrating a protection philosophy rooted deeply in their culture. Their active participation is exemplified by the Ghora Aabhe Society, a group of 12 village heads formed in 2006, who work with the forest department to enforce customary laws against hunting and logging, and support conservation initiatives.
Pakke's commitment to conservation has earned it national recognition, including the "India Biodiversity Award" in 2016 for its innovative Hornbill Nest Adoption Programme. This program highlights the community's deep-rooted involvement in preserving these charismatic birds, which are key indicators of forest health. The reserve also hosts the Centre for Bear Rescue and Rehabilitation (CBRC), a collaborative effort with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), which has successfully rescued and rehabilitated over 60 orphaned Asiatic black bear cubs into their natural habitat since 2002.
A Canvas of Diverse Landscapes
Pakke Tiger Reserve covers an extensive area of 862 sq. km (333 sq mi), with a total protected area, including its buffer zone, of 1276.95 sq. km. Its geography is characterized by undulating and hilly terrain in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, with elevations ranging from 100-2000 meters (330-6,560 ft) above mean sea level. The northern parts are mountainous, transitioning to narrow plains and sloping hill valleys in the south.
The reserve is strategically bounded by natural waterways: the Bhareli or Kameng River to the west and north, and the Pakke River to the east. It shares borders with the Papum Reserve Forest to the east, Nameri National Park to the south and southeast, Doimara Reserve Forest and Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to the west, and the Shergaon Forest Division to the north. This contiguity with other protected areas forms a vital ecological corridor for megafauna like tigers and elephants.
A Symphony of Flora and Fauna
Pakke Tiger Reserve is truly a biodiversity hotspot in the Eastern Himalayas, situated in a transitional zone between the Indian and Malayan eco-regions. Its primary vegetation type is the Assam Valley tropical semi-evergreen forest, with merges of evergreen and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests. The forests boast a multi-layered structure, rich in epiphytes and woody lianas, with emergent species like Bhelu (Tetrameles Nudiflora), Borpat (Ailanthus Grandis), and Jutuli (Altingia Excelsa). Around eight species of bamboo are found here, and approximately 1,500 vascular plant species are estimated to exist in the reserve.
The reserve is a haven for wildlife, home to an astounding array of species:
Mammals: At least 40 mammal species have been recorded, including the iconic Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and clouded leopard. Other notable species include Asiatic elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar, hog deer, barking deer, wild boar, wild dog, jackal, Himalayan black bear, binturong, yellow-throated marten, Malayan giant squirrel, flying squirrel, and various monkeys like capped langurs, rhesus macaques, and Assamese macaques. The first photographic evidence of the Small-toothed Ferret Badger from the Rilloh Range was also recently captured.
Birds: With at least 296 bird species recorded (and over 300 expected), Pakke is a birdwatcher's paradise. It's renowned as "Hornbill country," hosting four resident species: Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. Other unique and rare birds include the globally endangered white-winged wood duck, the unique ibisbill, the rare Oriental bay owl, Jerdon's baza, pied falconet, and forest eagle owl.
Butterflies: An estimated 500 of India's more than 1500 butterfly species are found in Pakke. Over 380 species have been recorded, with 70 listed under the Wildlife Protection Act (1972). Rare rediscoveries like Arhopala belphoebe and Calinaga arborica have occurred here.
Reptiles and Amphibians: A total of 36 reptile species and 30 amphibian species have been reported, including the highly endangered Assam roofed turtle and the impressive king cobra. The pied warty frog, resembling bird droppings, can also be found.
Unique Attractions Beyond the Lens
Beyond the sheer biodiversity, Pakke offers unique attractions for visitors:
Butterfly Park: A key component is the Butterfly Information Centre, providing interactive details on butterfly life cycles, behavior, and ecological significance. The Butterfly House offers a closer look at both common and rare species, complemented by informative display boards along the trails. This tranquil park is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Nature Interpretation Centre: Located near the Seijosa entry gate, this center, supported by WTI, uses infographics, posters, and interactive quizzes to promote awareness about the reserve's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Safari Adventures and Booking Details
Visitors to Pakke Tiger Reserve can immerse themselves in the wild through various activities, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature walks, and trekking. The best time to visit for wildlife exploration and pleasant weather is during the winter, from November to March/April.
Safari Zones & Types: The reserve's area is divided into ranges, including Seijosa, Tippi, and Rilloh Wildlife Ranges. Elephant safaris are available at Khari Camp at a price of INR 1,000 per person (maximum 4 persons per trip), operating in the mornings from 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Jeep or 4WD vehicles are recommended for exploring the heart of the reserve.
Booking & Permits: Securing prior approval from the Forest Department is crucial to access the core area. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for domestic tourists, and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for foreign tourists. These can be obtained online or from designated offices in major cities like Guwahati, Tezpur, or Itanagar. The Forest Department has indicated a potential hike in safari rates. While there isn't currently an online booking system for safaris directly on the Pakke Tiger Reserve website, visitors can inquire about bookings through the provided contact details.
Comfortable Stays in the Wild
Accommodation options cater to different preferences, aiming to provide a rustic yet comfortable experience amidst nature:
Pakke Jungle Camp (Pakke Eco-camp): This community-based tourism model, jointly run by Help Tourism and the local Ghora-Aabhe Society, offers traditional bamboo huts and small tents with cozy double-bedded rooms and verandahs overlooking the forest. It includes a dining area and a common bath-cum-toilet facility with running cold showers. There's an electric fence for security against curious elephants.
Forest Rest Houses (FRH Cottage): Available at places like Khari Base Camp, offering rooms that can accommodate up to four people.
Homestays: Two families in Darlong Village outside Pakke Tiger Reserve have set up homestays, offering an experience of Nyishi culture. Rasham and Devi's Homestay is ideal for experiencing Nyishi culture and offers views of Wreathed Hornbills roosting.
Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: Available in nearby towns like Seijosa and Bhalukpong.
Luxury Resorts: A little beyond Tezpur, offering modern facilities and arranged tourism services to the sanctuary.
Booking for accommodations like government stays (Premium Cottage, Executive Deluxe) can be found on the reserve's official links.
Your Travel Guide to Pakke
By Road: Pakke Tiger Reserve, specifically Seijosa, is well-connected. It's approximately 64 km from Tezpur and 240 km from Guwahati. Daily bus services from Tezpur to Seijosa are available (except Thursdays). Taxis and shared cabs can also be hired from Tezpur and Bhalukpong for direct access. The reserve can be accessed via NH 52 up to Soibari, then through Itakhola and Balijuri.
By Air: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport in Assam, about 140 km away (or 64 km to Seijosa). Other accessible airports include Itanagar Airport (130 km away) and Guwahati Airport (240 km away).
By Rail: The nearest major railhead is Tezpur Railway Station.
Local Transport: Taxis, shared cabs, and even rented bikes are available for local transport within and around the reserve.
Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a good camera for wildlife photography, binoculars for birdwatching, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a personal first-aid kit are recommended.
Conservation Challenges & Ongoing Efforts
Despite its successes, Pakke faces significant conservation challenges:
Habitat Fragmentation & Linear Infrastructure: A proposed 50 km highway through the heart of the reserve as part of the East-West Industrial Corridor project sparked strong opposition from the Nyishi community and conservationists. Such roads threaten to cause direct forest loss, alter microhabitats, increase road-kills, and facilitate illegal logging, mining, and poaching by increasing human access. The proposed road also runs along the border with Nameri National Park, threatening its contiguous forest patch and important elephant corridors.
Poaching & Illegal Activities: In the past, Pakke was heavily impacted by gangs of poachers and loggers, leading to the near obliteration of unique wildlife like tuskers, pangolins, and hornbills. Dynamite fishing was also a problem in the rivers. While the situation has improved, continuous vigilance is needed.
Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increased elephant influx due to deforestation along the Assam border has led to moderate human-elephant conflict in the Kameng Elephant Reserve, which includes Pakke. Specific areas like Tipi, with its Orchid Research Centre built on a natural elephant pathway, experience higher conflict.
Accessibility & Resources: A large part of PTR is mountainous, making access and logistical support challenging for management. The uneven distribution and large size of ranges (Seijosa, Tippi, Rilloh) further complicate management. The reserve also faces shortages in vehicles and arms, impacting its protection capabilities.
Invasive Species & Grazing: The presence of invasive species is a threat, and incidences of grazing within the reserve occur, posing risks of disease spread and competition for fodder.
Ongoing Efforts:
Community Involvement: The active participation of the Nyishi tribe, through initiatives like the Ghora Aabhe Society, is central to conservation, imposing fines against hunting and felling. They also support the Forest Department in fighting forest fires and conducting conservation education.
Tiger Monitoring: PTR conducts intensive camera trapping under Phase IV monitoring to track tiger populations, their gender, age, and other statistics, which informs long-term conservation strategies. WWF-India has been instrumental in training Pakke TR staff in these scientific monitoring activities since 2009-10.
Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation: The CBRC plays a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in the region.
Policy & Planning: The "Pakke Tiger Reserve 2047 Declaration on Climate Change Resilient and Responsive Arunachal Pradesh" adopted during the first cabinet meeting outside Itanagar, emphasizes a multi-sectoral approach to low emission and climate-resilient development, focusing on protecting and restoring forests.
Sniffer Dogs: The induction of sniffer dogs and dog masters aids in patrolling and wildlife crime detection.
Photography: Capturing the Elusive and the Everyday
For photographers, Pakke Tiger Reserve offers an incredible natural studio. Wildlife storytelling through photography involves crafting a coherent narrative through a set of images, whether it's about an individual animal, a conservation issue, or the life of a species. While tigers are certainly a major draw, Pakke's rich tapestry of life provides countless other subjects.
Tigers of Pakke: The reserve is home to Bengal tigers. Recent camera trapping sessions (2023-2024) confirmed the presence of nine individual tigers (five females, three males, and one cub), an increase from seven tigers in 2023. In 2022, six unique tigers were photo-captured during the All India Tiger Estimation. My own field experience in 2015 included a memorable 40-second tiger sighting, a huge male ambling along a dry riverbed. Such sightings, though fleeting, underscore the wildness of this place.
Other Photographic Subjects: From the majestic hornbills roosting on river banks to the playful capped langurs and the elusive Asiatic black bear, there's always something to capture. Don't forget the vibrant world of butterflies, where a macro lens can reveal intricate wing patterns and colors. Camera traps have also captured images of species like the clouded leopard, Chinese pangolin, Himalayan serow, and Himalayan goral. The landscape itself, with its multi-hued skies and gurgling rivers, offers stunning opportunities for wider shots.
Ethical Advice for Wildlife Photographers
Every photographer entering a wildlife reserve carries a responsibility. Here's how to ensure your visit does more good than harm:
Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a considerate distance from wild animals. Never chase, disturb, or stress them. Observe from a safe distance for both your safety and the animals' well-being. If an animal appears agitated by your presence, withdraw.
No Flash Photography: Use of flash is not allowed inside the National Parks. It can cause tremendous stress to animals.
Stay on Designated Routes: Adhere to park rules, stay on designated routes, and do not get off safari vehicles.
Do Not Feed Wild Animals: Never, under any circumstances, feed wild animals, including monkeys.
Avoid Night Safaris: Refuse night safaris, as they are generally banned and punishable offenses in almost all parks.
Minimize Disturbance: Do not plan loud parties or bashes. Be mindful of noise levels; avoid talking loudly inside the woods.
Leave No Trace: Do not litter the parks. If you see plastic or other garbage, consider picking it up, but do not pick up anything natural that belongs in the park (feathers, bones, antlers, pebbles) as it could be illegal.
Fire Safety: Do not smoke in the forest or carry any combustible material that could cause a fire.
Support Local Conservation: Engage with local NGOs, support local communities by purchasing handicrafts, or stay in eco-resorts. Learn about the reserve's conservation issues.
Prioritize the Story, Not Just a "Perfect" Shot: Focus on documenting authentic stories and behaviors. The "perfect" photograph should never come at the cost of disturbing wildlife. Sometimes, the image will be cluttered, and that's okay; opportunities will present themselves if you observe patiently.
Research Your Destination: Be an informed tourist by learning about the reserve, its offerings, and its conservation challenges before your visit.
Important Links for Your Visit:
Pakke Tiger Reserve Official Website: The main hub for information, though online booking for safaris is not yet available.
Safari Booking Information: http://www.pakketigerreserve.org/book-your-safari.html
Accommodation Information: http://www.pakketigerreserve.org/book-your-accomodation.html
How to Reach: http://www.pakketigerreserve.org/how-to-reach.html
Contact Information: http://www.pakketigerreserve.org/contact.html (Divisional Forest Officer Office, Itakhola Seijosa Road, Seijosa, Arunachal Pradesh 790103)
Help Tourism (Pakke Jungle Camp): www.helptourism.org/pakkecocamp
Pakke Jungle Camp Contact: Suresh Pait at sureshpait@gmail.com, +91 9402037005, +91 9733000442.
Divisional Forest Officer, Pakke Tiger Reserve: dfopakke@gmail.com or call +91 3778 200014/16.
Titli Trust: www.titlitrust.com. Publishers of "Butterflies and Moths of Pakke Tiger Reserve".
Pakke Tiger Reserve promises a fulfilling and enriching experience, allowing you to marvel at nature's beauty and contribute to the vital preservation of delicate ecosystems. Come, unleash your creativity, and tell the hidden stories of this incredible wild heart!
Pakke Tiger Reserve, also known as Pakhui Tiger Reserve, is a biodiverse gem located in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the Eastern Himalayan foothills. It covers an area of 862 sq. km (333 sq mi), with altitudes ranging from 100 m to 2000 m above sea level. The reserve boasts high species diversity and endemicity, forming a transition zone between the Indian and Malayan eco-regions.
While Pakke Tiger Reserve is known for its "rich species diversity", including a significant population of Indian tigers, it's important to set realistic expectations for tiger photography. Tiger presence has been confirmed through camera traps, with a recent survey identifying nine individual tigers (five females, three males, and one cub). However, the dense semi-evergreen, evergreen, and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests can limit visibility.
Comprehensive 3-Day Safari Plan for a Photographer to Pakke Tiger Reserve from Delhi
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for visiting Pakke Tiger Reserve for wildlife viewing and comfortable weather is during the winter months, from November to March. October to April is also considered a good period. If you are particularly interested in butterflies, the monsoon months of May and October are suggested.
Pre-Trip Preparations:
Permits:
Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for all domestic travelers to enter Arunachal Pradesh. These can be obtained online or from designated offices in major cities like Guwahati, Tezpur, or Itanagar.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Foreign tourists require a RAP to enter Arunachal Pradesh. These can be obtained online or physically from offices in New Delhi and Arunachal Pradesh. It is advisable to arrange permits well in advance.
Photography Equipment:
Camera & Lenses: A DSLR or Mirrorless camera with good resolution and low-light capability is ideal. For wildlife, a long telephoto lens (400-600mm) is recommended, along with a shorter lens (70-300mm) and a wide-angle lens for landscapes. A teleconverter can also be useful.
Support & Lighting: A bean bag, monopod, or tripod can be helpful. Flash photography is generally not allowed inside National Parks.
Batteries & Storage: Carry extra batteries and memory cards, and plan for image backup, as power supply in remote areas can be unreliable and charging devices might incur extra costs.
Binoculars: A small pair of binoculars can enhance wildlife spotting.
Cleaning Kit: Carry a lens cleaning kit.
Clothing and Essentials:
Pack lightweight clothing and hiking boots.
Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
A personal first-aid kit is advisable as medical facilities might be basic in remote areas. Carry any prescribed medications.
Carry enough water and snacks.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate gear, considering the subtropical climate with cold winters and heavy monsoons.
Ethical Guidelines for Wildlife Photography:
Stay on designated routes and do not speed.
Maintain a considerate distance from wild animals; do not chase, rush, or stress them. Withdraw if animals show agitation.
Never feed wild animals, including monkeys.
Do not get off safari vehicles inside the park.
Do not litter and consider picking up others' plastic waste.
Do not pick up natural items like feathers, bones, or stones, as it could be illegal.
Do not smoke in the forest or carry combustible materials.
Follow instructions from your guide and park authorities.
Travel to Pakke Tiger Reserve:
By Air: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport (Salonibari Airport) in Assam, approximately 60-64 km from Seijosa, a main entry point for the reserve. Guwahati International Airport is further (around 225-240 km from Seijosa) but offers better connectivity to major Indian cities. Itanagar Airport is about 130 km away. From these airports, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach the Pakke area.
By Train: The nearest major railway stations are Tezpur Railway Station or Rangapara, but Guwahati is also a close railway station (234 km) from where you can take road transport.
By Road: Pakke Tiger Reserve, specifically the Seijosa area (its divisional headquarters), can be reached via National Highway 52 (Tezpur - Lakhimpur) up to Soibari, then through Itakhola and Balijuri. Seijosa is connected to Tezpur (64 km) and Guwahati (234 km). Arunachal Pradesh State Transport (APST) and private bus services are available daily from Tezpur to Seijosa (except Thursdays). Be aware that signs might be limited, especially on the route via Soibari-Pakke Kessang Road, so it's advisable to ask for directions frequently.
3-Day Photography Safari Plan
Accommodation Options:
Pakke Jungle Camp (Pakke Eco-camp): A community-based tourism model jointly run by Help Tourism and the local Ghora-Aabhe self-help conservation group. It offers local-style cottages on stilts made of eco-friendly materials like bamboo, thatch, cane, and wood, with basic but comfortable double-bedded rooms and a verandah. There's a common bath and toilet area with running cold water. The camp has security fencing due to frequent elephant visits. Booking can be done through Help Tourism or directly by contacting Suresh Pait.
Forest Rest House (FRH): Available at places like Khari Base Camp, offering rooms for up to four people. The park also lists Premium Cottage and Executive Deluxe options for government stays.
Homestays: Two families in Darlong Village outside Pakke Tiger Reserve have set up homestays, ideal for experiencing Nyishi culture.
Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion
Morning/Afternoon (Travel & Arrival): Arrive at Tezpur or Guwahati Airport. Take a pre-booked taxi or bus to Seijosa, the primary entry point and hub for the reserve.
Late Afternoon (Check-in & Orientation): Check into your chosen accommodation (Pakke Jungle Camp, Forest Rest House, or a local homestay). Attend a briefing with your local guide or park staff. They can provide crucial insights into the local ecology, current wildlife movements, and reserve regulations.
Evening (Cultural Experience): Engage in a cultural experience or village tour. This offers an opportunity to learn about the Nyishi tribe, who play a vital role in conservation efforts. You might witness hornbills flying to their roost sites from a homestay in the evenings.
Day 2: Wildlife Safari and Forest Trekking
Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) - Guided Jeep Safari: Embark on a guided jeep safari into the reserve. The core zone is where the actual forest exists and is given maximum protection. Safari zones include Seijosa (West Bank – Khari, Mobusa, Langka) and Tippi (Bhalukpong Ghat - Diji). Prior approval from the Forest Department is crucial for accessing the core area.
Photography Focus: While tiger sightings are rare, concentrate on photographing other mammals like elephants, leopards, barking deer, sambar, gaur (Indian bison), wild boars, and numerous bird species. Note that dense foliage can limit visibility beyond 10m. Use a long telephoto lens for distant wildlife and a wide-angle lens for the lush semi-evergreen, evergreen, and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests.
Late Morning/Noon: Return to camp for lunch and a short rest.
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) - Guided Nature Walk/Trekking: Take a guided nature walk or soft trek along identified routes. This offers a more immersive experience and opportunities for macro photography of insects, plants, and smaller wildlife like butterflies. You might spot pugmarks or other animal signs. The Khari area has specific walking trails and the Khari lake where White-winged Wood Ducks are often sighted.
Photography Tip: Pay attention to light conditions, especially during golden hour, for captivating shots. Be aware of black flies ("damdum") in areas like Langka, which can cause itchy sores.
Day 3: Alternative Safaris/Activities and Departure
Morning (6:00 AM - 11:30 AM) - Specialized Safari/Activity:
Option 1: Another Jeep Safari: Explore different zones not covered on Day 2.
Option 2: Bird Watching Tour: Pakke is a paradise for birders. Focus on species like the Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, and Rufous-necked Hornbill (four species are found here). Other specialties include the Ibisbill and the globally threatened White-winged Wood Duck. Fast shutter speeds are useful for capturing birds in flight.
Option 3: Elephant Safari: If available (as it is in nearby Nameri at Khari Camp), an elephant safari can provide a different perspective and access to areas inaccessible by jeep.
Option 4: River-based activities: River rafting and fishing are possible on the Pakke River, also suitable for bird watching and photography.
Late Morning/Noon: Return to your accommodation, finalize packing, and check out.
Afternoon: Depart from Pakke Tiger Reserve to Tezpur or Guwahati for your onward flight back to Delhi.
Important Considerations for Photographers:
Patience is Key: The dense forest makes sightings challenging. Be patient and appreciate the overall natural beauty.
Guides: Always follow the instructions of your experienced guides, who are familiar with the reserve's ecology and wildlife.
Permit Costs & Safari Rates: Entry fees for Indians are Rs. 40, foreigners Rs. 500. Jeep safaris cost INR 4,000 for up to 6 people (Seijosa zone) or INR 3,000 for Tipi zone with an additional Rs. 1,000 for boat crossing. Elephant safaris cost INR 1,000 per person (max 4 people). Guide and guard fees are paid directly on the spot. Note that the Forest Department has suggested an upcoming hike in safari rates.
Camping: Camping options are available in designated areas inside the reserve; ensure you obtain necessary permissions and guidelines.
Conservation Support: Contribute to conservation by practicing eco-friendly tourism and supporting local communities, for example, by purchasing handicrafts or choosing eco-resorts. The Nyishi tribe is actively involved in conservation, even having a Hornbill Nest Adoption Program. The reserve also has a Centre for Bear Rescue and Rehabilitation (CBRC).
Terrain and Accessibility: A large part of the reserve is mountainous, which presents challenges for access and logistical support. Roads within the park, particularly after the rainy season, might require maintenance.
Online Booking: While the park website mentions online booking for safaris and accommodation, one source indicates that there is currently no online booking system for visitors. It is best to contact the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) at Seijosa directly for bookings.
This comprehensive plan should assist a photographer in planning a rewarding trip to Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Detailed Elaboration of Zones for Wildlife Photography
The tourism zones within Pakke Tiger Reserve include Tippi and Bhalukpong in the west, Seijosa in the south-east, and Pakke Kessang in the northeast. Safari activities primarily focus on the Seijosa and Tippi ranges.
1. Seijosa Area
Seijosa serves as the Divisional Headquarters of Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary. It is the main entry point for most tourists.
Access: Can be reached by road via National Highway 52 (Tezpur - Lakhimpur) up to Soibari, then through Itakhola and Balijuri. Seijosa is approximately 64 km from Tezpur and 240 km from Guwahati. Signage along the route might be limited, so frequently asking for directions is advisable.
Photographic Opportunities & Activities:
Jeep Safaris: Seijosa is a primary safari zone. A rented jeep or 4WD is recommended for exploring the core of the reserve.
Khari: This area, accessed via a 12 km fair-weather road from the main park gate, features a beat establishment and transit accommodation.
Wildlife: Photographers might spot Malayan giant squirrels, hoary-bellied Himalayan squirrels, and potentially a black bear descending a tree. The area is also good for bird photography, including green-billed malkohas, orioles, flycatchers, warblers, blue-throated barbets, and great barbets. Signs of larger mammals like leopard, wild dogs, deer, and elephants (through pugmarks) can be found.
Trekking: Guided nature walks are possible here. Crossing the Pakke River near the Khari Inspection Bungalow allows access to a distinct forest tract with secondary bamboo growth, providing more opportunities for bird species like the mountain tailorbird and various warblers.
Langka: Known for its broadleaved semi-evergreen forest. It has an inspection bungalow and anti-poaching camp that can serve as a base.
Birding Paradise: Langka offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Photographers can capture spotted and black-backed forktails, white-capped and plumbeous water redstarts, flycatchers, niltavas, black-headed bulbuls, and prominently, Great and Wreathed Hornbills. The cliff edge overlooking the Pakke River provides a unique vantage point for eye-level shots of canopy birds like streaked spiderhunters, minivets, and other passerine species.
Macro Photography: Dense shrubbery along trails is ideal for macro subjects such as butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies.
River Photography: The Pakke River in this area can be very shallow, allowing for upstream walks and opportunities to photograph crested kingfishers, plumbeous redstarts, and maroon orioles.
Consideration: Be aware of "damdum" (black flies), which can cause itchy sores.
Rilloh: While not explicitly mentioned as a regular tourist safari zone, the Rilloh range was extensively covered during camera trapping surveys for tigers and Asiatic Black Bears. It yielded the first photographic evidence of the Small-toothed Ferret Badger in the reserve, indicating its rich biodiversity and potential for unique sightings if accessible.
2. Tippi Area
Located in the western part of the reserve, Tippi is another designated tourism zone.
Access: The Bhalukpong entrance, which is part of this zone, has proper signage along the Tezpur-Bomdila Road.
Photographic Opportunities & Activities:
Tiger Monitoring: Data from the Tippi range are specifically used for estimating the tiger population.
Butterfly Hotspot: Tippi and Bhalukpong Ghat are notable for butterflies. The Bhutan Glory butterfly was recently spotted in Arunachal Pradesh and can be found in Pakke Tiger Reserve. Arhopala belphoebe was re-discovered in Bhalukpong Ghat in 2014, and Calinaga arborica in Pakke Tiger Reserve in 2015, highlighting the area's significance for macro photography of rare butterfly species. The Butterfly Information Centre and a Butterfly House within the park also offer excellent educational and close-up photographic opportunities of common and rare species.
Rivers: The Pakke and Kameng rivers border the reserve. River-based activities like rafting and fishing on the Pakke River are possible and are also suitable for bird watching and photography.
3. Pakke Kessang Area
This area forms the north-eastern part of the reserve.
Access: It can be reached via the Itanagar or Seppa routes.
Photographic Opportunities: The northern part of the reserve is characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain. This offers potential for different landscape photography compared to the lowlands. However, be prepared for wildlife that is unaccustomed to human presence and may be very skittish. Good zoom lenses and cameras that perform well in low light are essential here.
In summary, Pakke Tiger Reserve offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities across its zones, from capturing majestic landscapes to detailed close-ups of birds, butterflies, and other mammals. Patience, appropriate gear, and adherence to park guidelines will be key to a rewarding photographic safari.
