Have you ever dreamed of walking through clouds, hearing birds sing all around, and spotting rare animals in the forest? Then you must visit Meghalaya, a land of clouds, waterfalls, and animals you won’t see anywhere else. Imagine walking in a forest and spotting a red panda like the character Kichi from The Jungle Book. Or seeing a leopard hidden among the trees. You will also witness the amazing flora and fauna here. Many options in a Meghalaya tour package include trips to these wonderful parks. where you will also see waterfalls cascading down, birds chirping all around, and even take a leisurely walk. It’s like stepping into a new world with these National parks in Meghalaya. So, what are you guys waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure. Meghalaya’s national parks are calling. Come and explore the wild side of nature.
Top 7 National Parks in Meghalaya
Let’s take a journey through the beautiful national parks in Meghalaya. When we walk into these forests, we leave behind the busy city life and find the calm beauty of nature. Every step in these parks shows us something new and exciting. In Meghalaya, there are two main national parks. These parks are full of trees, animals, and birds. Let’s find out more about them.
1. Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park in Meghalaya is in the South Garo Hills. It is a peaceful place, far away from city noise. The park has deep gorges, high cliffs, and green forests. You can also see big rocks and open land everywhere. The Simsang River flows through the park. This river makes the land green and helps people who live nearby. The locals call Balpakram the “Land of Eternal Winds”. They believe that the souls of their loved ones rest here. That is why this place is very special for them.
There is also a story from the Ramayana. It says that Lord Hanuman visited this place to take a special herb to save Laxman. When Hanuman pulled the herb, a big piece of the hill broke. That is why there is a canyon present in Balpakram. Balpakram is full of life. You can see animals like the clouded leopard and the barking deer here. The park is a great place for nature lovers. It is a wonderful spot for photos, walks, and adventures.
- Location: 293 km from Guwahati (approx.)
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Opening Hours: 5 AM to 4 PM (Nov-Feb) and 5 AM to 6 PM (March-May).
- Spread across: 200 sq km.
- Best time to visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Tourist attractions in Meghalaya
2. Nokrek National Park
Nokrek National Park is in the West Garo Hills of Meghalaya. It is a very special place because it is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This means it is protected so that plants, animals, and nature can stay safe and healthy. The park has thick green forests, tall hills covered with clouds, and small rivers that flow through the trees. Walking inside feels like entering a new world, which is quiet, cool, and full of life.
Nokrek is most famous for the red panda. Yes, the same cute red panda like Kichi from The Jungle Book. Many other animals and birds also live here. You can also see many special plants that grow only in this region. If you love nature, adventure, and peaceful places, then a visit to Nokrek will be a memory you will never forget. It’s like a treasure hidden in the heart of Meghalaya.
- Location: 15 km from Williamnagar and 45 km from Tura (approx.).
- Entry fee: Rs 40/-
- Opening Hours: The timing is 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Area: 47.5 sq km.
- Best time to visit: November to March.
Suggested Read: 15 Scenic Waterfalls in Meghalaya That You Must Visit
Other Famous Wildlife Sanctuaries and Bird Sanctuaries in Meghalaya
Some of the other famous wildlife and bird sanctuaries are
3. Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is a big forest in Meghalaya. It is in Ri-Bhoi district, near the town of Nongpoh. This sanctuary is full of life. It has thick green trees, small plants, and many animals living together. When you visit Nongkhyllem, you can hear birds singing and leaves moving in the wind. The forest feels peaceful and calm. You might see animals like the leopard, Bengal tiger, or black bear. They are the real kings of this jungle.
But Nongkhyllem is not just about animals. It is also a great place to see birds. The great Indian hornbill flies high in the sky. Parakeets fly around and make cheerful sounds. Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for people who love nature. If you want to see wild animals and colourful birds and enjoy fresh air, you must visit this beautiful place.
- Location: 53 km from Shillong (approx.)
- Entry fees: No entry fee
- Opening Hours: 5 AM to 4 PM.
- Spread across: The area of the park is 29 sq km
- Best time to visit: November to April
Suggested read: Meghalaya—Adobe of Clouds
4. Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary
In Meghalaya, there is a small and special forest where you can see these amazing plants. Which is Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary. This place is in South Garo Hills, near the town of Baghmara. It is close to the border of Bangladesh. This forest is famous because it is home to the rare pitcher plant. This plant is special because it traps insects inside its cup-shaped leaves.
When you walk through the forest, you can see these plants all around. You can also see other trees, plants, and small animals. The air is fresh, and the place is peaceful. If you love nature and want to see something unique, you should visit the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary. It is a magical place where nature has so many secrets. You can also explore things to do in Meghalaya, like visiting the Living Root Bridges, the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, or the famous waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Elephant Falls.
- Location: 112 km from Tura (approx.).
- Entry fee: Rs 20/-
- Opening Hours: 24 hours.
- Spread across: approximately 2.5 sq km
- Best time to visit Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary: June to September
5. Siju Bird Sanctuary
Do you love watching birds fly in the sky? If yes, then you must visit Siju Bird Sanctuary in Meghalaya. Siju Bird Sanctuary is in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya, near the beautiful Simsang River. It is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in the state. This place is perfect for people who love nature and animals.
When you visit, you can see many different birds. Some birds live here, and some come from faraway places. The forests here are thick and green, and the rivers make the place even more beautiful. You may see colourful birds like kingfishers, big herons, and many others flying or sitting on trees. The birds here are like nature’s dancers, flying and playing in the sky. So, if you want to see something beautiful and different, plan a visit to Siju Bird Sanctuary on your Meghalaya backpacking trip.
- Location: 160 km from Tura and 475 km from Shillong (approx.).
- Opening Hours: 4 AM to 8 PM.
- Spread across: The area of the park is 5.18 sq km.
- Entry fees: Entry fees depend upon the nationality of the person.
- Best time to visit Siju Bird Sanctuary: November to April.
6. Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary
Narpuh is a famous Wildlife Sanctuary in Meghalaya. It is a peaceful place in Meghalaya. It is in the East Jaintia Hills. This sanctuary is full of big, green trees and many animals. Narpuh is home to elephants, leopards, and other animals that are hard to find. It keeps these animals safe and helps protect the forest. The air is fresh, and the place feels calm and quiet.
People visit Narpuh to see animals, trees, and nature. It is a perfect spot for those who love forests and want to see wildlife. Narpuh is one of the best places in Meghalaya for nature lovers. It is a beautiful sanctuary that shows the true beauty of Meghalaya’s wild side.
- Location: East Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Spread across: approximately 59 sq km
- Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign nationals
- Best time to visit Siju Bird Sanctuary: November to February
7. Garo Hills Elephant Reserve
The Garo Hills Elephant Reserve is a beautiful forest in Meghalaya. It was made to protect elephants because their numbers were getting low. The reserve is full of green trees, hills, and clean air. It is a safe place where elephants can live and roam freely. Many other animals, birds, and plants also live here. The forests are very thick, and the place looks peaceful and calm. The trees, animals, and birds make the area full of life.
This is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya to see nature up close. People can visit and enjoy the beauty of the forest, hear the birds sing, and see animals in their natural habitat. The Garo Hills Elephant Reserve is an important place to protect nature and help elephants live safely. It is a treasure of Meghalaya.
- Location: Spread across East, West, and South Garo Hills districts, Meghalaya
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Spread across: approximately 3,500 sq km
- Entry Fees: No specific entry fee
- Best time to visit Siju Bird Sanctuary: November to February
So, the next time you feel bored of the same routine, remember that Meghalaya’s national park in Meghalaya is waiting for you. It’s a place where you can see rare animals, smell fresh air, and watch stars twinkle in the night sky. These parks are not just for fun but also a safe home for nature’s wonders. So pack your bags, go on an adventure, and make memories you’ll never forget. Let’s explore national park in Meghalaya and help protect them for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many national parks are there in Meghalaya?
There are two national parks in Meghalaya, four wildlife sanctuaries, and one biosphere reserve. The two national parks in Meghalaya are Balpakram National Park and Nokrek National Park.
2. Which is the biggest national park in Meghalaya?
Balpakram National Park is the biggest national park in Meghalaya, and it covers an area of 220 square kilometres.
3. What is the best time to visit the national park in Meghalaya?
October to April is the best time to visit the national park in Meghalaya. The weather is pleasant during these months, making it a perfect time to go outdoors and explore the national park.
4. What kind of wildlife can I see in Balphakram National Park?
You can witness different species of animals like elephants, bison, leopards, deer, wild buffalo, and rare species of birds and plants. You can see a red panda as well, but it is rare.
