The Nokrek National Park, the central area of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, is situated about 2 km away from Tura Peak in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. UNESCO added the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve and the Nokrek National Park to its list of Biosphere Reserves in May 2009. The Nokrek area is a hilly hotspot of biodiversity in Meghalaya. Established in 1986, the National Park area comprises around 47.48 square kilometres of rich flora and fauna. If you are planning a fun trip to Nokrek National Park in Meghalaya, here is some helpful information that will guide you as you do that!
Nokrek National Park History, Location & Timing
Nokrek was declared a National Park in 1986, while the final notification was issued in 1997. The entire Biosphere Reserve is hilly. The rock consists mainly of gneisses, granulites, migmatites, amphibolites, and banded iron formations intruded by basis and ultra-basic bodies. In most of the Biosphere Reserve area, the soil is red loam, but sometimes it varies from clayey to sandy loam.
The park is in the southeastern part of East Garo Hills. Some park areas are in the East Garo Hills district, while others are in the West Garo Hills and South Garo Hills districts. The core area of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is also Nokrek National Park. It is about 2 kms from Tura Peak in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, India. In May 2009, UNESCO added this National Park to its list of Biosphere Reserves.
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Nokrek National Park Activities
The Nokrek National Park is an ideal place to go birdwatching. Several migrant birds call this location home. Visitors who are lucky enough may also get to see some of the rare bird species. This wildlife provides an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to grab their binoculars and closely observe the diverse birds. Visitors to this National Park can hike through multiple trails owing to the park’s size of 48 square kms. Trekking is one of the best ways to observe the natural life around you. It allows you to get a closer look at nature’s magnificence. It provides an ideal opportunity for trekkers who enjoy walking through the world’s natural beauty.
Rongbang Dare Water Fall is located in Nokrek National Park and is popular among tourists who visit the area. Napak Lake is also near the Simsang River and the Siju Cave. The cave is miles long and filled with water. These caves are also referred to as the Bat Cave. They are well-known for their stalagmites, stalactites, and limestones. Visitors can hire a guide to understand the cave better and assist them in more effective exploration.
Places To Visit Near Nokrek National Park
Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a beginner, these places will make your journey more enjoyable!
1. Pelga Falls
Pelga Falls, located 7 kms from Tura, has become an increasingly hot spot for anglers and picnickers in recent years. Tourism developed this place by constructing a footpath and viewpoint. Another attraction is a traditional Garo bamboo bridge built over the Ganol River. It is an absolute paradise for nature lovers, as its ambience is exceptionally calm and peaceful.
The Tourism Department has also constructed a footpath that leads to the falls. On reaching the falls, there is a beautiful viewpoint from which to enjoy the scenic beauty. It is a fantastic place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax your body and mind for a fresh start. There are also small food joints near the Pelga Falls where one can indulge in the taste of some local Garo delicacies. Pelga Falls is located 7 km from Tura, and the best way to reach there is to take a local taxi from Tura.
Location: Tura, Meghalaya
Distance: From Nokrek National Park: 75 km
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2. Tura Peak
At close to 900 metres above sea level, Tura Peak is a haven for nature lovers and those interested in bird watching and photography. The hills around Tura are thriving with life – species like hornbills and gibbons are just some of the many treasures of this diverse and rich landscape. A trip to Tura Peak brings you up close to the beauty as you climb up to one of the highest points in the district.
Tura has an average elevation of 349 meters. The weather in Tura is cool throughout the year. It is also home to friendly locals who enjoy welcoming visitors and integrating them into their daily lives. The magnificent Brahmaputra valley plains and the plains of Bangladesh can be seen from the Tura peak. At this peak’s summit is a tourist bungalow, an observatory, and a Cinchona plantation. There is also a footpath from the base to the peak, ideal for mountaineers and trekkers.
Location: Akonngre, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya
Distance: From Nokrek National Park: 62.3 km
3. Siju Caves
Siju Dobakkol (Siju Cave) is also known as Bat Cave in English. It is by far the most well-known cave in India. It is located in the northeast Indian state of Meghalaya near the Napak Lake and Simsang River game reserve. It is a limestone cave famous for its stalagmites and stalactites. Tens of thousands of bats live in Siju Dobakkol.
It is the best-researched cave in the Indian subcontinent, having been investigated by the unrivalled interdisciplinary research project undertaken as early as 1922 by Stanley Kemp and K Chopra of the Indian Museum, Kolkata. The Siju cave system is more than 4 km long, but nearly all of it is filled with water and inaccessible. The limestone hills of Meghalaya receive a lot of rain and moisture and hold many other cave systems, some much longer and more extensive than Siju. Still, Siju Cave is among the most thoroughly researched and explored systems.
Location: Near Napak Lake, Meghalaya
Distance: From Nokrek National Park 27 km
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4. Umiam Lake
Image Credit: Vikramjit Kakati for wikimedia commons
Umiam Lake, also known as Bara Pani, is a reservoir in the hills 15 km north of Shillong in Meghalaya, India. It was created by damming the Umiam River in the early 1960s. The principal catchment area of the lake and dam is spread over 225 square kms. The lake serves as a significant tourist attraction for the state of Meghalaya.
It is also a popular destination for water sports and adventure facilities. Tourists visit this spot for kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating. Apart from storing water for electricity generation, the lake provides numerous ecosystem services at micro, meso and macro levels. Downstream irrigation, fisheries, and drinking water cater to local anthropogenic needs.
Location: Shillong, Meghalaya
Distance: From Nokrek National Park: 356 km
How To Reach Nokrek National Park Travel Route
Know how to reach Nokrek National Park.
By Air – The nearest airport is 170 kms away in Guwahati.
By Train—The nearest railway station and airport for Nokrek National Park are Guwahati (160 km and 170 km away, respectively). To reach Nokrek, you must book a cab or a private vehicle from Guwahati.
By Road—Located 45 km from Tura in the West Garo Hills district, Nokrek National Park is easily accessible. The nearest town is William Nagar, which is about 15 km away.
Further Read: Cherrapunji Waterfalls
Nokrek National Park is truly a treat for all the senses, especially for those who enjoy spending time in nature and the great outdoors. It is an integral part of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya, India’s North East. Now that you have a complete guide to visiting Nokrek National Park, it is time to start planning a holiday to Meghalaya’s beautiful state. Book your tickets for an enjoyable trip to Meghalaya.
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Cover Image Credit: Baharul Choudhury for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Nokrek National Park
What is the usual weather in Meghalaya?
Weather: Meghalaya experiences autumn between October and November and winter from December to February. The average daytime temperature is enjoyable at 15°C —20°C, but nighttime temperatures drop to around 3°C during winters. Foggy days are typical here.
What is the best time to visit Nokrek National Park?
The best time to visit Nokrek is between October to May. The area experiences heavy rains, so planning a trip here in the monsoon months of June to September is not advisable.
What essentials should be carried to the park?
It is essential to bring an insect repellent spray or cream with you when exploring Nokrek National Park. It is advised to get or apply sunscreen, lotion or cream. Carrying a miniature first-aid kit is a must when travelling anywhere. Since Nokrek is a humid, marshy land, carry leech and mosquito repellent sprays and wear covered clothes to prevent leech bites.
Is there an entry fee for visiting the Nokrek National Park?
Adult: INR 40, Child: INR 0 Student: INR 20, Foreigner: INR 100
How long does it take to cover the entire park?
It takes a good 3 to 4 hours to explore the entire park premises. However, you can spend at least half the day here exploring the park in more detail and soaking in its natural ambience.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
