Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary: Your Complete Guide To Wildlife, Activities, And Travel Tips

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary can simply be described as a serene and rich haven for biodiversity. Nestled in the very middle of Arunachal Pradesh the sanctuary spreads across a vast area with rich flora and fauna, and it is a paradise for all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Itanagar Sanctuary offers extraordinary packaging through natural surroundings, dense woods, soft rising-and-falling hills, and sparkling brooks. If you are an ardent bird watcher or looking for a calm, serene escape from jack-hit city life, Sanctuary ensures a memorable and thrilling experience.

Location

Photo: Ashwani Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The sanctuary is situated in the city of Itanagar, which is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated in the Eastern Himalayas, the sanctuary is easy to visit and offers calm surroundings amidst nature.

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Itanagar Amidst The Lap Of Nature

How To Reach

Photo: Josh Sorenson / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Reaching the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary is quite convenient by several modes of transport:

By Road: The National Park can be accessed without much effort by road. Bus and taxi services are offered by neighbouring cities such as Guwahati and Tezpur.

By Train: The nearest railway head is Harmuti Railway Station, Assam; it is located about 33 km away from Itanagar. From the station, one can either avail of taxi services or buses to the sanctuary.

By Air: The nearest airport is situated in Assam, Lilabari Airport, which is 70 km away. Taxis are accessible from the airport to reach Itanagar.

Places To Visit Around

Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness around Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, with attractions, vibrant local markets, and picturesque landscapes.

1. Ganga Lake

Photo: Mrkrish / Wikimedia Commons

One such secluded place amidst the green hills of Arunachal Pradesh is Ganga Lake, otherwise known as Gyakar Sinyi. Situated quite near the famous sanctuary, this picturesque lake is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Very close to Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, this beautiful lake reflects the dense forest and sky-reaching mountains, which form a very enchanting panorama.

Cost/Person: Free
Location: 6 km from Itanagar
Best Time To Visit: October to April

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Itanagar on your next vacation To Arunachal Pradesh

2. Ita Fort

Photo: AshLin / Wikimedia Commons

The beautiful city of Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, holds an ancient fort with the literal meaning of “Fort of Bricks” that dates back to the 14th-15th century and includes the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area, reflecting the ingenuity and high architectural skill of the Ahom dynasty. If you are planning a trip to Itanagar; then a visit to the Ita Fort is an absolute must, especially for those keen to explore the natural splendour of the sanctuary.

Cost/Person: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for childrens
Location: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: November to March

3. Polo Park

Photo: Nilfanion / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This enchanting park lies beside the Itanagar Sanctuary and forms an equally good viewpoint for nature and wildlife lovers. Many people visiting the sanctuary extend their trip to visit Polo Park, which supplements the rich biodiversity present in the sanctuary. With an expanse of greenery and lush flora, Polo Park provides refreshment away from the dense forests of the Itanagar Sanctuary. Walking around the park offers one some very fine views and a calm atmosphere that makes it an ideal retreat from the hustles of daily life.

Cost/Person: ₹20
Location: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: Year-round

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

Things To Do

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Wildlife Watching: It offers viewing of various wildlife species, including deer, elephants, and a variety of birds.
Trekking: Go trekking on the sanctuary trails and be amidst panoramic settings.
Bird Watching: Best location for bird lovers with species in abundance to witness.
Photography: Beautiful landscapes and wildlife can be captured through lenses.

Where To Stay

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary accommodation ranges from budget to luxury. From the circuit houses run by the government to the private ones like Hotel Donyi Polo Ashok and Hotel Arun Subansiri, one can stay comfortably with modern facilities. Eco-camps and the provision of lodges near the sanctuary give a rustic stay and bring one closer to nature.

Suggested Read: Discover Top Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh

Where To Eat

Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary offers all kinds of dining options to suit every taste bud. The local eateries around Itanagar offer traditional Arunachali food like bamboo shoot pickles, thukpa, and momos. If you’re looking for a great variety in the menu, then restaurants such as Treebo Trend Hotel Sangkan and Hotel Pybss are at your beck and call with Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines.

Best Time To Visit

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit Itanagar Sanctuary is from October to April when the weather is very pleasant and conducive to spotting wildlife. Temperatures during these months vary between 15°C and 25°C, which is most preferred for outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon period from June to September, as heavy rains can make the trails slippery and, at times, difficult to walk through. Visits during the winter months to the Itanagar Sanctuary offer a good opportunity to view migratory birds and a clear view of the lush landscape.

Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Arunachal Pradesh For Every Wildlife Enthusiast

Other Factors To Consider

Photo: DSD / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One should look out for the local festive times, the weather, and the related travel advisories during the itinerary preparation to make the visit hassle-free and enjoyable.

Average Cost Of The Trip: An average trip to the Itanagar Sanctuary will vary depending on the type of accommodation and activities, but on average, it is estimated to range between INR 5,000 and 10,000 per person.

Trips For the travellers:

• Do carry bottles of water to stay hydrated.
• Wear comfortable footwear and clothing to indulge in activities.
• Do follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary.
• Carry a first-aid kit.

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary is for any nature lover and adventure seeker. With its rich biodiversity and extremely remarkable natural beauty combined with its cultural legacy, it is said to be a remarkable and cherishable experience to witness. Plan your visit with TripXL to this natural paradise and get set to savour the beauty of Arunachal Pradesh.

Cover Photo: Jan Venter / Pexels / Image For Representation Only