Balpakram National Park: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Explore Balpakram National Park, a pristine wilderness sanctuary, located in Meghalaya

Located in the rugged heartland of Meghalaya, Balpakram National Park offers natural beauty and cultural heritage. Famous for its wealth of biodiversity and panoramic landscapes, the park invites adventurers and nature lovers to its pristine wilderness. The Garo tribes were locally rooted in this region, and Balpakram was considered a place where the souls of the departed rested. Trek through shrouded forests and across rolling hills for panoramic views of the Garo Hills. Get ready to know about all the whereabouts of this national park for your next trip.

Quick Details Balpakram National Park

Location: South Garo Hills district of the Indian state of Rongchenggiri, Meghalaya
LBest Time To Visit: October to April
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

How To Reach

The view of spectacular mountains at the top of the south of Garo Hills in Meghalaya.

Photo:Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

By Road: From Guwahati, take NH51 to Tura, then proceed to Baghmara, the nearest town to the park.

By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport and then take a road trip—approximately 5-6 hours—to Baghmara.

By Rail: The closest railway station is at Guwahati; proceed by road.

Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Meghalaya That You Must Visit On Your Trip

Places To Visit In And Around Balpakram National Park

1. Nokrek National Park

Witness the diverse wildlife at the Nokrek National Park, near Balpakram National Park.

Chirnzb / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Nokrek National Park is located in Meghalaya, India, and has been noted for its biodiversity and beauty. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and as such, it shares the same features in that it is purportedly a haven for endangered species and rich ecosystems. This paper tries to delve into the role of Nokrek in conservation and the importance of Nokrek in conserving the region’s biodiversity.

Entry Fees: ₹50 per person
Location: West Garo Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time To Visit: October to April

2. Siju Cave

Explore the spectacular bat cave of Siju near Napak Lake, on your trip to Meghalaya.

Photo: James Gabil Momin / Wikimedia Commons

Situated next to this national park in the state of Meghalaya, India, Siju Cave is a natural wonder having huge limestone formations and rivulets that go underneath the ground. Being one of the longest caves in the Indian subcontinent, Siju Cave has been of interest to many adventure seekers and researchers coming to study the geology of Garo Hills. Its proximity to Balpakram National Park further adds to this region’s eco-tourism and scientific value.

Entry Fees: ₹20 per person
Location: Near Siju Village, South Garo Hills district
Best Time To Visit: November to February

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya

3. Rongbang Dare Waterfall

Witness the mesmerising Rongbong Dare Waterfall on your trip to Balpakram National Park.

Photo: Rajesh Rane / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

With its vast fall amidst green surroundings, the Rongbang Dare Waterfall is located in Meghalaya, India. The place is popular for its pictorial beauty and serene surroundings, which form a peaceful retreat for all nature lovers and adventure seekers. Placed amidst the Garo Hills, the Rongbang Dare Waterfall enhances the unsullied landscapes and biodiversity that give this national park a distinct identity, boosting the state’s tourism potential.

Location: Near Baghmara, South Garo Hills district
Best Time To Visit: Monsoon season for full flow

Where To Stay

Stay at some of the comfortable hotels on your trip to Meghlaya’s natural wonders.

Photo: Stiven Rivera / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

While visiting this national Park, accommodations are mostly confined to the town of Baghmara itself. Low-key accommodation includes the Baghmara Tourist Lodge, local medium-grade private lodges, and guesthouses like PWD Rest House. Hence, booking in advance is always advisable to enjoy a comfortable stay in closer proximity to the park’s impeccable wilderness and wonders of nature.

Suggested Read: The Mysterious Caves In Meghalaya

Where To Eat

Svaour the delicious cuisines of Meghalaya on your trip to Balpakram National Park.

Photo:Marvin Ozz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

While roaming on the premises of this park, food options are present nearby in Baghmara. Those include local eateries such as Baghmara Restaurant and Garo Hills Dhaba, offering Ethnic Garo cuisine that includes bamboo shoot curry, smoked pork, and traditional rice preparations. Such outlets were found to give the taste of local flavours amidst nature’s beauty in Meghalaya.

Other Factors To Consider

Keep in mind these tips for your trip to India’s state, Meghalaya’s famous national park

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Average Cost Of The Trip

A budget trip to this national park would be roughly ₹5,000 to 10,000 per person, covering accommodation, food, and travel expenses.

Tips For Travellers

  • One should carry adequate cash since ATMs might need to be more readily available.
  • Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry all necessary medications.
  • Respect local culture and tradition.

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June

Balpakram National Park speaks of the rich biodiversity that exists in India. Visitors wander across these sublime landscapes and hidden treasures to add a bit to the conservation efforts that keep Balpakram’s natural wonders safe for future generations to cherish and admire. The national park is a paradise for researchers, nature enthusiasts, and eco-tourists alike. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore this park for a memorable experience.

Cover Photo: Skyler Ewing / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The park is about 250 km by road from Guwahati.
No, the wildlife is mainly viewed by trekking and guided tours.
Yes, permits might be required for professional photography.
Always take a guide with you while trekking, carry enough water, and inform someone about the itinerary.
Yes, but with the accompaniment of an adult.

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