The Parks of Meghalaya
The Famous National Parks In Meghalaya
1.Balphakram National Park
Facilities
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available at key entry points and visitor centers.
Cafes: There are small cafes and tea stalls near the park entrance and in nearby villages.
Clinics: Basic medical facilities are available in nearby towns and villages. It's advisable to carry a first aid kit.
Hotels Available
Guest Houses and Lodges: There are a few guest houses and lodges in nearby towns such as Baghmara. It is recommended to book in advance as the options are limited.
Events Planned
Local Festivals and Cultural Events: The park occasionally hosts local festivals and cultural events, celebrating the indigenous traditions of the Garo people. Check with local authorities or tour operators for specific dates.
Activities
Wildlife Safaris: Explore the park’s rich biodiversity through guided jeep safaris.
Bird Watching: The park is a paradise for bird watchers with numerous species to observe.
Trekking: Several trekking trails offer a chance to experience the park’s scenic landscapes.
Photography: Capture the stunning vistas and diverse wildlife.
What is it Famous For
Famous For: Balphakram National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including deep gorges, cliffs, and lush forests.
Famous Animal
Red Pandas: The park is famous for its population of Red Pandas. Other notable species include elephants, tigers, and the rare golden cat.
Plant/Vegetation/Climate
Vegetation: The park is home to tropical and subtropical forests with a variety of flora, including medicinal plants and orchids.
Climate: The region experiences a moderate climate with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September).
Restaurants Available
Dining Options: Dining options within the park are limited to small eateries and tea stalls. More variety can be found in nearby towns.
Recommended Activities
Nature Walks: Explore the diverse flora and fauna on foot.
Cultural Tours: Learn about the Garo tribes and their traditions.
Cave Exploration: Visit the nearby Siju Caves, famous for their impressive limestone formations.
2.Nokrek National Park
Facilities
Restrooms: Basic restrooms are available at the park's entry points and some of the designated visitor areas.
Cafes: There are no dedicated cafes inside the park. Visitors typically bring their own food or visit nearby towns.
Clinics: There are no clinics within the park. For medical emergencies, visitors need to travel to the nearest town, Tura.
Hotels Available
In Tura: Several hotels and guesthouses are available, including the Hotel Blue Hills, Hotel Ladybird, and Hotel Landmark.
In the Vicinity: Limited options closer to the park, with basic accommodations available in nearby villages.
Events Planned
Festivals: Nokrek National Park occasionally hosts events related to local festivals and cultural activities. The timing and specifics of these events may vary annually.
Activities Done
Trekking: Popular trekking routes offer a chance to explore the park’s rich flora and fauna.
Bird Watching: The park is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, with various species to observe.
Wildlife Safari: Guided tours provide opportunities to see the park's diverse wildlife.
Photography: Scenic landscapes and wildlife provide excellent photography opportunities.
What It Is Famous For
Biodiversity: Nokrek is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, including rare and endemic species of plants and animals.
The Garo Hills: The park is part of the Garo Hills range, known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty.
What Animal It Is Famous For
Red Panda: The park is famous for being a habitat of the endangered Red Panda, which is one of its key attractions.
Other Wildlife: It also houses other species like the hoolock gibbons, clouded leopards, and various birds.
What Plant/Vegetation/Climate It Is Famous For
Flora: Nokrek is known for its rich diversity of plant life, including several endemic species and tropical evergreen forests.
Climate: The climate is subtropical with high humidity and moderate temperatures, experiencing heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
Restaurants Available
In Tura: A range of local eateries and restaurants are available in Tura, such as The Garden Restaurant and D.C. Restaurant.
Near the Park: Limited dining options are available, so bringing your own food or eating in nearby towns is advisable.
Recommended Activities
Nature Walks: Explore the park’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Wildlife Spotting: Engage in guided wildlife tours to spot rare species.
Cultural Interaction: Visit local villages and interact with the Garo community to learn about their traditions and way of life.