Namdapha Tiger reserve in Arunachal Pradesh is spread over 1,850-sq-kms of rugged terrain. Perhaps no other national park in the world has a wider altitudinal variation than the Namdapha which rises from 200m to 4,500m in the snow-capped mountain. This variation has given rise to the growth of diverse habitats of flora and fauna. For the truly dedicated wilderness and wildlife fan, a visit to Namdapha considered de-rigor. It is also favorite for trekking and hiking.

The diverse vegetation and habitats of Namdapha grooms diverse species of animals and birds. It is only park in the World to have the four Feline species of big cat: Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia) and Clouded Leopard and a number of lesser cats. A number of primate species are seen here such as Assamese Macaque, pig-tailed Macaque, stump-tailed Macaque and number of the distinctive Hoolock Gibbons, highly endangered and only ‘Ape’ species found in India dwells in this impenetrable virgin forest. Of the many other important animals are the Elephants, Black Bear, Indian Bison, several species of Deers, reptiles and a variety of arboreal animals.

Among the bird species, most notable are the White winged Wood Ducks, a rare and endangered species, the great Indian Hornbills, Jungle Fowls and Pheasants flop their noisy way through the jungle, and which harbours other colourful bird and animal species. The inaccessibility of greater part of the park has helped to keep the forests in their pristine and virgin state.

Namdapha possesses great bio diversity of flora and fauna, and its lush green under growths are thick and intertwined like cobwebs of canes, bamboos, wild bananas and variety of vegetations. This wet tropical rain forest is a breeding ground for varieties of animals and birds.

A detailed study of its species and genetic variation has not yet been thoroughly done. Namdapha is Botanist’s dream and it may take as long as 50 years to complete a comprehensive survey of its botanical resources. There are more than 150 timber species. The Pinus Merkusi and Abies Delavavi are not found elsewhere in India. One of the rarest and endangered orchids, the Blue Vanda is found here. A most important local medicinal plant Mishimi Teeta, used by the local tribal for all kinds of diseases, is found here.

Best time to visit is between October and March.