10 National Parks in North East India

Largest National Parks in North East India

The national parks in North East India offer a level of biodiversity and wilderness rarely seen elsewhere in the country. Located across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura and Manipur, these parks are home to India’s rarest animals, including the One-Horned Rhinoceros, Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, and Sangai Deer. From the vast floodplains of Assam to the alpine forests in Arunachal, the terrain changes dramatically, allowing a wide variety of flora and fauna to thrive in their natural habitat.

Many of these parks are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, biosphere reserves, or protected wetlands. Each park holds its own unique ecosystem, whether it is the floating grasslands of Keibul Lamjao or the snow-covered trails of Namdapha. A visit to a national park North East India is not only about spotting wildlife but understanding how fragile and interconnected these ecosystems are. Safaris, walking trails, birdwatching, and nature camps in these national parks also help travellers experience the raw, untamed side of India.

You can explore many of these destinations through well-curated North-East tour packages that cover eco-friendly inclusions like forest lodges, local guides and immersive cultural experiences. These parks are not just destinations but living, breathing stories of India’s ecological heritage.

Iconic Wildlife Encounters

Kaziranga National Park (Assam) - Witness the majestic One-Horned Rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and abundant birdlife in lush floodplains.
Manas National Park (Assam) - Home to golden langurs, pygmy hogs, and wild water buffalo, combining adventure with rich grasslands and forests.
Namdapha National Park (Arunachal Pradesh) - Spot elusive predators like tigers, clouded leopards, and snow leopards in one of India’s most pristine forests.
Keibul Lamjao National Park (Manipur) - Explore the world’s only floating national park, the last refuge of the rare Sangai deer.
Clouded Leopard National Park (Tripura) - Trek through dense forests to catch glimpses of the mysterious clouded leopard and other forest mammals.

Spectacular Landscapes

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (Assam) - A patchwork of wetlands, grasslands, and river islands, perfect for spotting aquatic birds and wildlife.
Nameri National Park (Assam) - Riverine forests along the Jia Bhoroli River provide rich birdwatching and adventure opportunities like rafting.
Balpakram National Park (Meghalaya) - Explore plateaus, gorges, caves, and limestone formations, a mystical land known as the “Land of Spirits.”
Mouling National Park (Arunachal Pradesh) - Remote mountainous forests teeming with orchids, medicinal plants, and elusive mammals.
Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park (Mizoram) - Misty cliffs and high-altitude grasslands surround Mizoram’s highest peak, offering breathtaking vistas.

Birdwatching & Nature Trails

Kaziranga - Over 480 bird species, including storks, pelicans, and migratory waterfowl.
Manas - Grassland birds like Bengal florican alongside tropical forest species.
Dibru-Saikhowa - A haven for rare species such as the white-winged wood duck.
Nameri - Hornbills, kingfishers, and a variety of riverine birds.
Balpakram - Hosts birds uniquely adapted to Meghalaya’s plateau ecosystems.

Immersive Experiences

Jeep and elephant safaris in Kaziranga and Manas for close-up wildlife encounters.
River rafting and angling in Nameri and Manas, combining adventure with natural beauty.
Guided walks and village trails near Manas, Mouling, and Balpakram for cultural immersion.
Birdwatching camps and photography tours across Dibru-Saikhowa, Kaziranga, and Nameri.
Trekking in remote terrains of Namdapha, Mouling, and Phawngpui for experienced explorers.

Best North East Tour Packages

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Must See National Parks in North East India

01

Kaziranga National Park (Assam)

Kaziranga is globally recognised for hosting over 2,600 one-horned rhinoceroses and stands out among the top national parks in North East India. Sprawled across the Brahmaputra River floodplains, its terrain includes tall elephant grass, swampy lagoons, and semi-evergreen forests. Apart from rhinos, The Kaziranga National Park is home to tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and wild water buffalo.

Birdwatchers can spot over 480 species, including migratory storks and pelicans. The park also functions as a Tiger Reserve, with one of the highest tiger densities in India. Jeep and elephant safaris operate from ranges like Kohora and Bagori, with the best time to visit being between November and April.

Address: NH-37, Bokakhat, Ageratoli, Assam 785612

How to Reach: Kaziranga National Park is well connected by road to major towns in Assam. It is around 165 km from Guwahati, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours by road via NH27.

Approx. Cost: INR 100 per person

Best Time: October to June

Things to do:

Take an early-morning jeep safari in the Kohora or Bagori range, when rhinos and elephants are most active.
Experience a traditional elephant safari to move through tall grasslands inaccessible to vehicles.
Spend time at Kaziranga’s watchtowers, offering wide views of floodplains and grazing wildlife.
Explore the less-crowded Burapahar range for birdwatching and quieter forest trails.
Visit nearby local villages and tea estates to understand life around the park’s buffer zones.

02

Manas National Park (Assam)

Located at the foothills of the Bhutan Himalayas, Manas is part of many Assam tour packages for good reason. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, it is home to endangered species like the golden langur, pygmy hog, hispid hare, and Bengal florican. The park stretches over 500 square kilometres with rich grasslands, tropical forests and the Manas River flowing through it.

You will also find Indian rhinoceroses, wild water buffaloes and tigers here. Manas National Park supports over 450 bird species and 60 mammal species, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Activities like river rafting, birdwatching, and village walks provide a blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

Address: Basbari Range, Barengbari, Gobardhan, Baksa, BTR, Assam-781315

How to Reach: Manas National Park is well connected by road to major towns in Assam. It is around 131 km from Guwahati, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours by road via NH27.

Approx. Cost: INR 300 per person

Best Time: October to April

Things to do:

Go on a jeep safari through grasslands and forest corridors near the Bhutan border.
Try river rafting on the Manas River, combining gentle rapids with scenic forest views.
Join guided birdwatching walks along riverbanks and open grasslands.
Take a village walk in nearby Bodo settlements to experience local culture and traditions.
Explore lesser-known trails that showcase Manas’s quieter, undisturbed sections.

03

Namdapha National Park (Arunachal Pradesh)

Covering 1,985 square kilometres, Namdapha is the largest national park in North East India and among the most biodiverse. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, it features everything from lowland evergreen forests to alpine meadows. The Namdapha National Park is famous for being the only one in the world where all four big cat species, namely tiger, leopard, snow leopard, and clouded leopard, are found.

It also houses red pandas, hoolock gibbons, and over 425 species of birds. Treks, forest camping and river activities attract serious wildlife travellers. Access is through Miao, and entry permits are required. November to April is the best season for visiting this remote and rugged park.

Address: MV Road, Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Miao Changlang, Arunachal Pradesh 792122

How to Reach: Namdapha National Park can be reached by road from key towns across Arunachal Pradesh. It is around 254 km from Miao, taking approximately 6 hours by road via NH15.

Approx. Cost: INR 100 per person

Best Time: October to March

Things to do:

Trek through deep rainforest trails starting from Miao towards Deban and beyond.
Camp near forest rest houses to experience complete wilderness and night sounds.
Walk along Noa-Dihing River stretches for birdwatching and river views.
Spot rare flora including orchids and medicinal plants with local forest guides.
Observe wildlife signs like paw prints and scratch marks, even when sightings are rare.

04

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (Assam)

Dibru-Saikhowa in Tinsukia district is known for its rich wetland biodiversity and unique riverine landscapes, and is recognised as an important national park. North East India boasts species such as the endangered white-winged wood duck and the Gangetic river dolphin, both of which are found here. Visitors from around the world are especially drawn to its population of feral horses, descended from wartime cavalry.

The park supports semi-evergreen forests and grasslands spread over 340 square kilometres. More than 350 bird species can be spotted here, including migratory waterfowl and local specialties like the marsh babbler. Boat safaris are a popular way to explore the changing river channels and observe the wildlife up close.

Address: M997+J27, Laika Gaon, Assam 786150

How to Reach: Dibru-Saikhowa National Park can be reached by road from most major towns across Assam. It is around 29.4 km from Tinsukia, taking approximately 1 hour by road via Gelapukhuri Road.

Approx. Cost: INR 50 per person

Best Time: November to April

Things to do:

Take a boat safari through braided river channels to observe birds and riverine wildlife.
Look for the park’s feral horses, often seen grazing on open grasslands.
Spend time on river islands (chaporis) for photography and birdwatching.
Visit wetland zones to spot migratory waterfowl during winter months.
Interact with local fishing communities living along the park’s fringes.

05

Nameri National Park (Assam)

Situated in the Sonitpur district, Nameri offers a quieter, more immersive experience than other national parks in North East India. Nestled along the Jia-Bhoroli River, the park supports a wide range of mammals including elephants, leopards, and gaurs. However, it is most renowned among birders, with over 370 species recorded. These include the endangered white-winged wood duck and hornbills.

What makes Nameri National Park unique is the opportunity to walk within the park on guided treks. You can also go river rafting and angling for golden mahseer in designated areas. The eco-camp near the park gate is a popular base for visitors during the dry months from November to April.

Address: WVJG+XV8, Sonitpur, Guwahati, Assam 784001

How to Reach: Nameri National Park is accessible by road from several major towns in Assam. It is around 37.9 km from Tezpur, taking approximately 1 hour by road via Balipara-Bhalukpung Road.

Approx. Cost: INR 50 per person

Best Time: November to April

Things to do:

Join a guided forest walk, one of the few parks allowing walking safaris.
Go river rafting on the Jia-Bhoroli River, ideal for beginners and nature lovers.
Try catch-and-release angling for golden mahseer in designated zones.
Spend mornings birdwatching near riverbanks and forest clearings.
Relax at the eco-camp near the park gate, surrounded by forest sounds.

06

Mouling National Park (Arunachal Pradesh)

Mouling is one of the least explored parks in the region and a key highlight of several Arunachal tour packages. Located in Upper Siang, it covers 483 square kilometres of mountainous terrain, with the Siang River on one side and thick forests throughout. The name 'Mouling' comes from the peak nearby and means 'red blood' or 'red poison' in the local dialect.

Wildlife sightings include the red panda, Mishmi takin, hoolock gibbon and clouded leopard. The park is also rich in orchids, medicinal plants, and birdlife. Treks are possible, but the area lacks regular tourist infrastructure, making it suitable for experienced trekkers seeking remote adventure.

Address: Jengging, East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh 791102

How to Reach: Mouling National Park is best reached via Aalo (Along) in Arunachal Pradesh’s Siang region. Aalo is about 110 km from Pasighat and around 160 km from Likabali, with travel times of 5–7 hours by road. From Aalo, the park area near Jengging is roughly 35–40 km away, accessible mainly by local taxis or shared vehicles.

Approx. Cost: INR 50 per person

Best Time: November to April

Things to do:

Trek through remote mountain trails accompanied by experienced local guides.
Explore forest zones rich in orchids, bamboo groves, and medicinal plants.
Camp near river-fed clearings for a true off-grid wilderness experience.
Observe primates like hoolock gibbons in dense forest canopies.
Document the park’s untouched landscapes, ideal for serious nature photographers.

07

Balpakram National Park (Meghalaya)

Sitting 3,000 feet above sea level in the South Garo Hills, Balpakram is often dubbed the "Valley of Eternal Winds." Part of several Meghalaya tour packages, the park holds spiritual significance for the Garo people. It spans 220 square kilometres and features dramatic plateaus, gorges, and caves. Wildlife includes the red panda, marbled cat, Asian elephant, and Indian bison.

It is also home to pitcher plants, medicinal herbs, and rare orchids. Despite its importance, the park sees fewer tourists due to its remote setting. Visitors can enjoy trekking, photography, and exploring natural rock formations between October and March.

Address: Rongchenggiri, Meghalaya 794114

How to Reach: Balpakram National Park is well connected by road to major towns in Meghalaya. It is around 70.3 km from Baghmara, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours by road via SH4.

Approx. Cost: INR 50 per person

Best Time: November to April

Things to do:

Walk across dramatic plateaus and cliff edges offering sweeping valley views.
Explore natural rock formations and caves shaped by centuries of erosion.
Learn about the park’s spiritual significance from local Garo communities.
Spot unique plant species like pitcher plants and rare orchids.
Capture sunrise and sunset moments over the South Garo Hills landscape.

08

Keibul Lamjao National Park (Manipur)

Keibul Lamjao, located on Loktak Lake, is the world’s only floating national park. It is built on phumdis, also known as floating biomass, and forms a crucial part of national parks in North East India. The 40-square-kilometre park protects the endangered Sangai deer, locally known as the dancing deer. It gets this name from its unique gait while walking on the floating vegetation.

Besides the Sangai, The Keibul Lamjao National Park hosts waterfowl, migratory birds and reptiles. Boat rides through narrow channels allow visitors to observe wildlife in this unique habitat. Conservation efforts have helped stabilise the deer population, but water level regulation remains an ongoing challenge.

Address: FRHQ+GR6, Keibul Lamjao Rd, Manipur 795133

How to Reach: Keibul Lamjao National Park can be accessed by road from several key towns across Manipur. It is around 23.7 km from Moirang, taking approximately 1 hour by road via Kumbi-Moirang Lambi road.

Approx. Cost: INR 50 per person

Best Time: November to March

Things to do:

Take a boat ride through Loktak Lake’s narrow channels to view floating phumdis.
Observe the Sangai deer moving gracefully across floating vegetation.
Watch migratory birds during winter months from lake viewpoints.
Visit nearby Loktak Lake villages to understand lake-dependent livelihoods.
Learn about ongoing wetland conservation efforts shaping the park’s future.

09

Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park (Mizoram)

Part of scenic Mizoram tour packages, Phawngpui is home to Mizoram’s highest peak at 2,157 metres. The park spans 50 square kilometres and features rhododendron forests, alpine meadows and sheer cliffs. Wildlife sightings include the clouded leopard, Blyth’s tragopan and gibbons. Orchids and bamboo groves are abundant, especially during spring when rhododendrons bloom across the hillsides.

Trekkers will find well-defined routes that lead to panoramic views reaching as far as Myanmar. The area holds cultural importance among the Mizo people, believed to be the last resting place of departed souls. November to March is the best time to plan a visit to this unique national park.

Address: Lawngtlai District, Mizoram 796901

How to Reach: Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park is reachable by road from major towns across Mizoram. It is around 254 km from Aizawl, taking approximately 9 hours by road via World Bank Road.

Approx. Cost: INR 30 per person

Best Time: November to April

Things to do:

Trek to Phawngpui Peak, Mizoram’s highest point, for panoramic views.
Walk through rhododendron-lined trails, especially vibrant during spring.
Spot rare birds like Blyth’s tragopan in quieter forest zones.
Explore sheer cliffs and alpine meadows unique to Mizoram’s highlands.
Engage with local Mizo folklore linked to the mountain’s cultural beliefs.

10

Clouded Leopard National Park (Tripura)

Established to protect its namesake species, this compact but vital reserve is one of the region’s most accessible national park. North East India visitors often include it in shorter itineraries due to its proximity to urban areas. Located in Sepahijala district, the park spans over 5 square kilometres and offers a sanctuary for the elusive clouded leopard, capped langurs, and spectacled monkeys.

It also features a botanical garden and a lake that supports aquatic life. The park is ideal for families and casual nature lovers who want to experience wildlife without the intensity of a deep jungle expedition.

Address: M899+HQJ, Uttar Charilam, Bishalgarh, Tripura 799102

How to Reach: Road access to Clouded Leopard National Park is convenient from various major towns of Tripura. It is around 27.4 km from Agartala, taking approximately 1 hour by road via NH8.

Approx. Cost: INR 12 per person

Best Time: November to March

Things to do: