Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Nagaland, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateNagaland
DistrictsForest Division of Nagaland
Year of Notification1978 (Wildlife Protection Act)
Total Area180.50 sq km
LandscapeTropical evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen broadleaf canopy, bamboo breaks, and riverine forest streams.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesDhansiri River, Doyang River, Dikhu River, Tizu River
Nearest AirportDimapur Airport (DMU) – 30 to 75 km
Nearest Railway StationDimapur Railway Station (DMV) – 25 to 70 km
Best Time to VisitOctober to April

Location

The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Nagaland region of Nagaland. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Nagaland.

History

Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Nagaland.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an exact area of 180.50 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Tropical evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen broadleaf canopy, bamboo breaks, and riverine forest streams.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), Sam (Artocarpus chaplasha), Nahar (Mesua ferrea), Simul (Bombax ceiba), Khair, Sissoo, Bamboo, and epiphytic Orchids..

Fauna

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

  • Primary Mammals: Royal Bengal Tiger, Western Hoolock Gibbon (India’s ONLY ape species!), Capped Langur, Indian Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Gaur (Indian Bison), Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Slow Loris, Golden Jackal.
  • Predators & Carnivores: Royal Bengal Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Indian Leopard, Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal.
  • Herbivores & Ungulates: Western Hoolock Gibbon, Gaur (Bison), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: King Cobra, Indian Python, Water Monitor Lizard, Assam Roofed Turtle, Tokay Gecko.

Other Wild Animals & Avifauna

  • Resident Woodland Birds: Great Indian Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Red Junglefowl, Green Pigeon, Emerald Dove.
  • Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Black Kite, Osprey.
  • Migratory Species: Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, Indian Pitta, Asian Openbill, Grey Wagtail.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Dhansiri River, Doyang River, Dikhu River, Tizu River.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Dzukou Valley Trek, Kohima War Cemetery, Naga Heritage Village Kisama.

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: Dimapur Airport (DMU) – 30 to 75 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur Railway Station (DMV) – 25 to 70 km
  • Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Nagaland.

Best Time to Visit

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

Accommodation

Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Nagaland.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.

Conservation Highlights

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

Visitor Tips

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

Did You Know?

  • Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagaland notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
  • Preserves key wildlife species including Royal Bengal Tiger and native avifauna.
  • Covers an exact area of 180.50 sq km along the Dhansiri River watershed.

Last Updated: August 2026