Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s largest high-altitude Eastern Himalayan sanctuaries, home to the rare Mishmi Takin.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateArunachal Pradesh
DistrictsUpper Dibang Valley (Anini)
Year of Notification1992
Total Area4,149.00 sq km
LandscapeGlaciers, alpine snow peaks, rhododendron forest, temperate broadleaf, and bamboo thickets.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesDibang River, Dri River, and Mathun River
Nearest AirportDibrugarh Airport (DBC) – 250 km / Pasighat (IXT) – 200 km
Nearest Railway StationTinsukia Junction (TSK) – 220 km / Murkongselek – 190 km
Best Time to VisitOctober to April

Location

The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Upper Dibang Valley (Anini) region of Arunachal Pradesh. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Arunachal Pradesh.

History

Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992 to protect pristine high-altitude Eastern Himalayan biodiversity and rare ungulates.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an exact area of 4,149.00 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Glaciers, alpine snow peaks, rhododendron forest, temperate broadleaf, and bamboo thickets.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Rhododendron species, Abies densa, Tsuga dumosa, Betula utilis, Bamboo, and alpine herbs..

Fauna

The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:

  • Primary Mammals: Mishmi Takin (flagship ungulate!), Red Panda, Musk Deer, Gongshan Muntjac, Snow Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Tiger, Serow.
  • Predators & Carnivores: Snow Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Black Bear, Wild Dog.
  • Herbivores & Ungulates: Mishmi Takin, Red Panda, Musk Deer, Gongshan Muntjac, Serow, Goral.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: Himalayan Pit Viper, Mountain Lizard.

Other Wild Animals & Avifauna

  • Resident Woodland Birds: Sclater’s Monal, Blyth’s Tragopan, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Ward’s Trogon.
  • Raptors & Owls: Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, Black Eagle.
  • Migratory Species: Grandala, Rosefinch, Snow Finch, Wallcreeper.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Dibang River, Dri River, and Mathun River.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Anini Town (45 km), Dri River Valley, High Eastern Himalayan Passes.

Weather & Climate

Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (DBC) – 250 km / Pasighat (IXT) – 200 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia Junction (TSK) – 220 km / Murkongselek – 190 km
  • Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Arunachal Pradesh.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal season for visiting Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.

Accommodation

Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Upper Dibang Valley (Anini).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.

Conservation Highlights

Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Arunachal Pradesh.

Visitor Tips

Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.

Did You Know?

  • Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
  • Preserves key wildlife species including Mishmi Takin (flagship ungulate!) and native avifauna.
  • Covers an exact area of 4,149.00 sq km along the Dibang River watershed.

Last Updated: August 2026