Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary in the North Eastern Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh around Mehao Lake. The sanctuary is a precious gift to the state and is surrounded by greenery and bushes. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna including rare and exotic species. There are long gardens of orchids and flowers in the sanctuary. The region has subtropical dense forests spanning over an area of 281.5 kilometres squares.
Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary Location
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The sanctuary is in the Lower Dibang Valley District of the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh. This wildlife sanctuary lies across the Eastern Himalayan Range. The highest point of this sanctuary is located at an altitude of 3500 metres and varies from 900 metres to 3500 metres depending upon the region of the sanctuary. Because of its varied altitude, the region supports different ecological zones that have different forests ranging from subtropical forests on the lower end to alpine meadows on the top.
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How To Reach Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
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Travelling to the sanctuary requires changing routes and ways from major cities in Arunachal Pradesh to driving through remote areas.
By Road: This place is just 17 kilometres from Roing and can be accessed via roads. Arunachal Pradesh itself is a protected area so visitors might need an ILP (Inner Line Permit) to enter any part of the state.
By Air: Tezu Airport is 60 kilometres from Roing. Visitors shall land at Tezu Airport and reach Roing via taxi.
By Rail: Tinsukia Railway Station is at a distance of 108 kilometres. Visitors shall get down at this station and take a taxi to Roing or directly to the sanctuary.
Places To Visit Around Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
There are many interesting places to visit around the sanctuary. Each of the notable places promises a unique experience.
1. Dibang Valley
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Dibang Valley is a beautiful place to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. It is named after the Dibang River. The Dibang River flows through this valley and breaks down into multiple tributaries that flow through the other plains. Rare species like Mishmi Takin, Red Goral and Gongshan Muntjac are spotted in this valley. This place is a chosen spot for trekkers as they trek through the rugged terrains and Mishmi Hills which have excellent trails.
Location: Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, 792103
Distance From Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: 65 km
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2. Mayudia
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Mayudia is a beautiful hill station near the sanctuary. It is one of the lesser-known spots in the proximity to the sanctuary. The weather of this hill station is very pleasant and offers breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the region. The place is known for its Mayodia Pass which offers beautiful vistas of snow-capped peaks. Bird-watching activity is performed here by the visitors. This place is an important tourist destination because of its extreme snowfall, heaviest in January and February.
Location: Mayudia, Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, 792103 India
Distance From Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: 10.7 km
3. Anini
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Anini is a very small town in Arunachal Pradesh and at a distance from the sanctuary. The place serves as a gateway for beautiful scenic spots in the proximity. This place is home to mighty mountains and green meadows. Anini is home to the local Idu Mishmi Tribes that populate the town. It is recommended to try the local cuisine of Anini which is influenced by Tibetian dishes as well. The place is attractive for local sightseeing and numerous campsites. There is a beautiful fall near Anini Town called Sisi Falls which is a very picturesque destination.
Location: Anini, Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, 792103 India
Distance From Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: 72.4 km
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4. Roing
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Roing is the closest spot to explore near the sanctuary. This is a beautiful place located in the Lower Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh. Roing is famous for its Ita Fort which is an ancient fort with historical importance. Brahmaputra River passes through this town through plains which is an ideal destination for local sightseeing. It is rich in flora and fauna and snow-capped peaks. Roing has become a chosen spot for trekking, river rafting and rock climbing. It is also renowned for the Bhismaknagar Ruins which showcase remnants of a historical fort and settlement.
Location: Roing, Lower Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, 792110
Distance From Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: 12 km
5. Namsai
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Namsai is a very good town in the Namsai District. The place is very famous for its Golden Pagoda and Namsai Eco Park. Golden Pagoda is a Buddhist Temple which is a major attraction in Namsai. It is originally known as Khampti Pagoda. Namsai Eco Park has many trails, gardens and walking areas and is a recreational spot for both locals and visitors. Other attractions include Pangsau Pass, Sampoorna Village and Namsai Orchid Sanctuary. This orchid sanctuary features a garden full of orchids and other species of flowers.
Location: Namsai, Namsai District, Arunachal Pradesh, 792103
Distance From Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: 53.9 km
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Rohit Naniwadekar / Wikimedia Commons
The ideal time for visiting the sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh is considered somewhere during the winter months of October to March. During winter, it is easier to spot animals and try adventurous activities near the water sources. For witnessing scenic beauty, the months of spring season from April to June are preferred. Visitors can see blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. For trekking and other adventurous activities, the autumn months of September to November are ideal. The trails are clearer and dry with a pleasant atmosphere.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- An Inner Line Permit is required to visit any place in Arunachal Pradesh. The sanctuary also requires a special permit.
- For wildlife-watching and bird-watching activities, early mornings and late afternoons are the best despite any season.
- It is recommended to check local weather and conditions before reaching this place. In case of monsoon months, there might be heavy rainfall which might disrupt your trip to this place.
- There are no hotels around the sanctuary so tourists shall book their accommodations in the nearby areas of Roing.
- It is ideal to first reach Roing and then travel to the sanctuary for a hassle-free trip to this place.
- The region around is protected so visitors must follow the rules and regulations and leave no trace by not littering or harming anything around.
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This sanctuary’s location is surrounded by lush green mountains and their towering peaks. There are smooth rivers and tranquil waters in the centre of this sanctuary. Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary is an important site for ecological and biological conservation. Book a trip with TripXL that ensures a memorable tour and an outstanding time at the Sanctuary. Get an opportunity to appreciate and engage with the diverse flora and fauna of this region.
Cover Photo: Jessica Weiller / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only