Dehing Patkai National Park

Dehing Patkai National Park is a pristine tropical rainforest located in the northeastern Indian state of Assam, spanning across the districts of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia. Often referred to as the “Amazon of the East”, it is one of the last remaining stretches of lowland tropical rainforest in India, noted for its extraordinary biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, and ecological importance.

Location and Establishment

The park lies at the foothills of the Patkai Hills, along the banks of the Dehing (or Dihing) River, from which it derives its name—“Dehing” referring to the river and “Patkai” to the surrounding hills. It was first declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2004, and later upgraded to national park status in June 2021 by the Government of Assam. The protected area covers approximately 231.65 square kilometres, forming part of the larger Dehing Patkai Landscape, which includes adjacent reserve forests and coal-bearing regions.

Geography and Ecosystem

Dehing Patkai represents the unique tropical wet evergreen and semi-evergreen forest ecosystem of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Receiving over 4,000 mm of annual rainfall, the region sustains a dense multi-layered canopy and lush green vegetation throughout the year.
The landscape comprises gently rolling hills, perennial streams, and riverine tracts that create an ideal habitat for diverse flora and fauna. The forest plays a vital ecological role in regulating the microclimate, supporting groundwater recharge, and maintaining biodiversity in Assam’s Upper Brahmaputra Valley.

Flora

The forest is dominated by large emergent trees and a thick understorey of shrubs, herbs, and climbers. Major tree species include Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus) – the state tree of Assam, Mekai (Shorea assamica), Nahor (Mesua ferrea), Ajar, Bonsum, and Sam. The forest floor is rich in wild bananas, ferns, orchids, creepers, and medicinal plants, while the canopy supports numerous epiphytes and mosses.
This luxuriant vegetation typifies a lowland rainforest ecosystem, providing nesting sites, food, and shelter to countless animal species.

Fauna

Dehing Patkai National Park harbours an exceptional range of wildlife, including several rare, endangered, and endemic species.

• Mammals: The park is home to the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, leopard cat, marbled cat, Malayan giant squirrel, civets, capped langur, Assamese macaque, slow loris, and various species of deer and bats.
• Birds: With nearly 300 recorded bird species, it is a haven for birdwatchers. Notable species include the white-winged wood duck, great hornbill, grey peacock-pheasant, hill myna, green imperial pigeon, and several woodpeckers and flycatchers.
• Reptiles and Amphibians: The forest sustains king cobras, pythons, monitor lizards, and several species of tree frogs and geckos.
• Butterflies and Insects: Over 300 butterfly species and countless insects have been documented, adding to its ecological diversity.

This rich wildlife makes Dehing Patkai an invaluable site for biodiversity conservation and scientific study.

People and Culture

The area surrounding the national park is inhabited by various ethnic groups such as the Tai Phake, Khampti, Singpho, Chutia, Ahom, and Moran communities. These groups share a long historical and cultural relationship with the forest, reflected in their traditional practices, beliefs, and sustainable lifestyles.
The region is also known for its tea gardens, oil fields (notably Digboi, Asia’s oldest refinery), and coal mines, highlighting a blend of industrial and traditional influences.

Conservation Importance and Threats

Dehing Patkai holds immense ecological significance as the largest stretch of lowland tropical rainforest in India, a habitat type that is rapidly disappearing due to human activity. The forest acts as a crucial wildlife corridor connecting India with the forests of Myanmar.
However, it faces several conservation challenges, including:

• Illegal coal mining and deforestation.
• Habitat fragmentation and loss of forest cover.
• Human-wildlife conflict due to encroachment.
• Industrial and infrastructural development in surrounding areas.

The park’s elevation to national park status in 2021 marked a major step in strengthening protection measures. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and community-based eco-tourism to promote sustainable coexistence.

Tourism and Accessibility

Dehing Patkai National Park is accessible via Dibrugarh Airport, located around 80 kilometres away. The nearest towns are Margherita, Digboi, and Ledo, which serve as gateways to the park. The Jeypore Range of the forest is particularly popular for eco-tourism and guided nature walks.

• Best time to visit: October to March, when the weather is relatively dry and suitable for exploration.
• Activities: Birdwatching, wildlife photography, guided forest treks, and visits to nearby cultural villages.
• Accommodation: Available in nearby towns and eco-lodges managed by the forest department and local communities.

Visitors are encouraged to follow responsible tourism practices, respecting the fragile rainforest ecosystem and local customs.

Ecological and Scientific Value

Dehing Patkai is a living laboratory for scientists and conservationists studying tropical rainforest ecology, climate resilience, and species diversity. Its unique combination of flora and fauna, along with its geological and hydrological features, makes it an important centre for ecological research and environmental education in Northeast India.
The park also contributes to the broader Upper Assam Rainforest Conservation Landscape, which includes adjacent reserves such as Jeypore, Upper Dihing, and Dirok Forests, forming a contiguous habitat for wide-ranging species like elephants and big cats.