Wildlife · Bhalukpong, Arunachal
Hornbills of Pakke Tiger Reserve
Cross to the east side of the Kameng to look for great, wreathed and Oriental pied hornbills in Pakke, where Nyishi villagers guard nest trees. It is a long day from Bhalukpong; an overnight near Seijosa is better.
Photo: SaniyaChaplod · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsPakke Tiger Reserve covers lowland and foothill forest between the Kameng and Pakke rivers, in Pakke-Kessang district. It is known above all for hornbills. Great, wreathed and Oriental pied hornbills feed on fig trees here, and in the evenings flocks fly to roost across the river valleys. Elephants, gaur and several primates also live in the reserve, though big mammals are hard to see in the dense forest.
The reserve's headquarters and main access are at Seijosa, on the eastern side. Although Pakke borders Bhalukpong across the river, the road to Seijosa runs through Assam and takes about 3 hours each way, so a day trip is tiring. We prefer a night at a forest or community stay near Seijosa. Entry needs permission from the forest department, and a forest guide or ranger usually accompanies visitors.
The surrounding Nyishi villages run a hornbill nest adoption programme, in which villagers are paid to protect nest trees through the breeding season. Ask your guide about it, keep well back from any nest, and never play bird calls. Rules, fees and road conditions change, so check current status before you travel.
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Trips through Bhalukpong
Do this on a trip
Each of these trips stops in Bhalukpong. Tell us and we keep a slot for this day.
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Comfort
Tawang and Dirang by private car
Private SUV with driver
Photo: Itrajib · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Signature
Monpa and Apatani: Tawang to Ziro
Private SUV with driver and private guide
Questions
Before you book
Can I visit Pakke Tiger Reserve from Bhalukpong?
Yes, but the main entry is at Seijosa on the far side, reached through Assam in about 3 hours each way. A day trip is possible with an early start; an overnight near Seijosa is more rewarding. Permission from the forest department is needed.
Which hornbills can I see at Pakke?
Great hornbills, wreathed hornbills and Oriental pied hornbills are the species most visitors see, especially near fruiting fig trees in the morning and at evening roosts. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to visit Pakke?
November to April, when roads are dry and birds are active in fruiting trees. The monsoon from June to September brings heavy rain and difficult roads, and parts of the reserve may close. Check current status before you travel.