Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam is India’s ONLY sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the Western Hoolock Gibbon—India’s sole ape species.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateAssam
DistrictsJorhat
Year of Notification1997
Total Area20.98 sq km
LandscapeUpper Assam tropical evergreen dipterocarp rainforest and tea garden edge.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesBhogdoi River and riverine tea estate rills
Nearest AirportJorhat Rowriah Airport (JRH) – 18 km / Dibrugarh Airport (DBC) – 130 km
Nearest Railway StationMariani Junction Railway Station (MXN) – 5 km / Jorhat Town – 20 km
Best Time to VisitOctober to April

Location

The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Jorhat region of Assam. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Assam.

History

Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in July 1997 to protect the isolated dipterocarp forest patch supporting seven species of rare primates.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an exact area of 20.98 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Upper Assam tropical evergreen dipterocarp rainforest and tea garden edge.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), Sam (Artocarpus chaplasha), Amari, Nahar (Mesua ferrea), Bamboo brakes..

Fauna

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

  • Primary Mammals: Western Hoolock Gibbon (flagship species – India’s ONLY ape!), Capped Langur, Stump-tailed Macaque, Pig-tailed Macaque, Slow Loris, Phayre’s Leaf Monkey, Assamese Macaque, Asian Elephant, Leopard.
  • Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wild Dog (Dhole).
  • Herbivores & Ungulates: Western Hoolock Gibbon, Capped Langur, Asian Elephant, Barking Deer, Wild Boar.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: King Cobra, Indian Python, Malabar Pit Viper, Monitor Lizard.

Other Wild Animals & Avifauna

  • Resident Woodland Birds: Great Indian Hornbill, Red Junglefowl, Green Pigeon, Emerald Dove, Hill Myna.
  • Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Black Kite, Shikra.
  • Migratory Species: Indian Pitta, Asian Openbill, Grey Wagtail.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Bhogdoi River and riverine tea estate rills.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Mariani Tea Estates (2 km), Jorhat Science City (18 km), Majuli River Island (50 km).

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: Jorhat Rowriah Airport (JRH) – 18 km / Dibrugarh Airport (DBC) – 130 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Mariani Junction Railway Station (MXN) – 5 km / Jorhat Town – 20 km
  • Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Assam.

Best Time to Visit

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

Accommodation

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

Conservation Highlights

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

Visitor Tips

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

Did You Know?

  • Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
  • Preserves key wildlife species including Western Hoolock Gibbon (flagship species – India’s ONLY ape!) and native avifauna.
  • Covers an exact area of 20.98 sq km along the Bhogdoi River and riverine tea estate rills watershed.

Last Updated: August 2026