Dampa Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Dampa Tiger Reserve, located in the state of Mizoram along the international border with Bangladesh, is the largest protected area in the state and one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in north-eastern India. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994, it is characterised by rugged hills, deep valleys, evergreen forests and exceptionally rich floral and faunal diversity. Owing to its location within the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, Dampa supports several rare and globally threatened species.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Mizoram
District	Mamit
Tiger Reserve Notification	1994
Total Area	988 sq km
Core Area	500 sq km
Buffer Area	488 sq km
Landscape	Lush Hills of the Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot
Forest Types	Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen and Moist Deciduous Forests
Elevation	Approximately 200–1,095 metres
Major Rivers	Teirei, Tut and numerous perennial streams
Best Time to Visit	November to April

Location

The reserve is situated in north-western Mizoram in Mamit district and shares its western boundary with Bangladesh. It forms an important component of the forests of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot.

History

Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1985 and was subsequently declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994 under Project Tiger. The reserve is named after Dampa, a local freedom fighter. Continuous protection and habitat management have strengthened its role in conserving the unique biodiversity of north-eastern India.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve covers approximately 988 sq km, comprising about 500 sq km of core area and 488 sq km of buffer area. The landscape consists of steep forested hills, narrow valleys, bamboo brakes and perennial streams. Heavy monsoon rainfall supports luxuriant evergreen vegetation, making the reserve one of the richest forest ecosystems in the region.

Flora

The forests contain numerous species of evergreen trees, bamboo, cane, orchids, wild bananas, figs, medicinal plants and dense undergrowth. The vegetation provides ideal habitat for arboreal mammals, birds and reptiles.

Fauna

Important mammals include Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Asian Elephant, Dhole, Himalayan Black Bear, Serow, Barking Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar, Hoolock Gibbon, Capped Langur and Slow Loris. More than 300 bird species have been recorded, including Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Kalij Pheasant and numerous migratory birds. King Cobra, Indian Rock Python and several endemic amphibians also occur in the reserve.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Teirei River, Tut River and numerous perennial streams provide year-round water and maintain the ecological health of the reserve.

Other Attractions

Dense tropical forests, birdwatching, butterfly diversity, panoramic hill landscapes and opportunities to experience Mizoram’s natural heritage are major attractions.

Weather & Climate

The climate is humid throughout the year. Summers are warm, the southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall between May and September, and winters remain cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Lengpui Airport near Aizawl. Nearest railway station: Bairabi. The reserve can be reached by road from Aizawl and Mamit.

Best Time to Visit

November to April offers pleasant weather and good opportunities for wildlife observation.

Accommodation

Forest Department inspection bungalows and Government accommodation are available near the reserve, subject to advance booking and official regulations.

Conservation Highlights

Dampa Tiger Reserve safeguards one of India’s most important tracts of tropical evergreen forest. Conservation programmes focus on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, scientific wildlife monitoring and community participation.

Visitor Tips

Obtain necessary permits before visiting, carry rain protection, wear neutral-coloured clothing, avoid disturbing wildlife and follow all Forest Department instructions.

Did You Know?

• Dampa is the largest protected area in Mizoram.
• The reserve forms part of the globally important Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot.
• It supports rare mammals such as the Clouded Leopard and Hoolock Gibbon.

Last Updated

July 2026