Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular conservation area located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It covers an area of about 218 square kilometers and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is named after the Red Eagle Division of the Indian Army, which was stationed here during the 1962 Indo-China war.
The Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Eastern Himalayas and is part of the Kameng Elephant Reserve. It is bordered by the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary to the east and Pakke Tiger Reserve to the west. The sanctuary is characterized by steep terrain, dense forests, and a variety of habitats that support a wide range of species.
The Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day of the week.
The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 50 per person, while foreign nationals are charged Rs. 200 per person. There is also a separate camera fee of Rs. 50 for Indian nationals and Rs. 500 for foreign nationals.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 450 species of birds, more than 40 species of mammals, and countless plant species. Some of the notable species found here include the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, clouded leopard, and various species of primates.
Visitors to the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in activities such as bird watching, wildlife photography, trekking, and camping. There are also guided nature walks and jeep safaris available for those interested in exploring the sanctuary.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary vary depending on the duration and route chosen. Typically, a 3-hour safari costs around Rs. 1500 per person.
There is no specific age criterion for entry into the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary. The entry fee is the same for all visitors, regardless of age or gender.
Senior citizens visiting the sanctuary can avail of special facilities such as wheelchair access, designated rest areas, and discounted entry fees. It is recommended that senior citizens inform the staff in advance so that necessary arrangements can be made.
The best time to visit the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The monsoon season, from June to September, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and poor visibility.
Some of the nearby attractions that visitors can explore include the Bomdila Monastery, Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, and the town of Tawang, known for its scenic beauty and ancient monasteries.
There is a designated parking area available near the entrance of the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary for visitors who wish to bring their own vehicles. The parking facility is secure and well-maintained.
Visitors to the sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and maintain the sanctity of the environment. Some of the key rules include no littering, no feeding of animals, no loud noises, and no smoking in designated areas.
The Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from nearby towns such as Bomdila and Tezpur. The nearest railway station is located in Rangapara, about 120 kilometers away, while the nearest airport is in Tezpur, approximately 160 kilometers away. It is advisable to hire a local guide or take a tour package to explore the sanctuary efficiently.