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Introduction
Nokrek National Park in Meghalaya is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the East & West Garo Hills (Tura) district, Nokrek National Park encompasses Nokrek Peak (1,412 m) and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protecting wild citrus gene pools and Red Pandas.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Meghalaya |
| Districts | East & West Garo Hills (Tura) |
| Year of Notification | 1986 (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 2009) |
| Total Area | 47.48 sq km |
| Landscape | Montane evergreen rainforest, hill ridges, and wild fruit gene sanctuaries. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Simsang River headwaters and Simsang mountain rills |
| Nearest Airport | Guwahati Airport (GAU) – 180 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) – 170 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
Location
The national park lies in the East & West Garo Hills (Tura) region of Meghalaya. 45 km from Tura town.
History
Notified in 1986 and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in May 2009.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 47.48 sq km, the park’s terrain features Montane evergreen rainforest, hill ridges, and wild fruit gene sanctuaries.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Montane evergreen rainforest, hill ridges, and wild fruit gene sanctuaries.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Red Panda, Hoolock Gibbon, Asian Elephant, Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Slow Loris, Pig-tailed Macaque, and Citrus Indica (ancestral wild orange species!).
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Great Indian Hornbill, Green Imperial Pigeon, Pheasant, Babbler, Sunbird, and Falcon.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Nokrek National Park is sustained by: Simsang River headwaters and Simsang mountain rills.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Nokrek Peak Trek (1,412 m highest peak in Garo Hills, 0 km), Tura Peak (45 km), Pelga Waterfalls (35 km).
Weather & Climate
Cool mountain climate (10°C to 25°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Guwahati Airport (GAU) – 180 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) – 170 km
- Road Connectivity: 45 km from Tura town.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Nokrek National Park is from October to May.
Accommodation
Forest Rest House Tura, Meghalaya Tourism Lodges.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
World’s primary gene sanctuary for Citrus Indica (ancestral mother of all cultivated citrus fruits).
Visitor Tips
Trek to Nokrek Peak for breathtaking views over the Garo Hills.
Did You Know?
- Inscribed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in May 2009.
- Protects the wild ancestral mother species of citrus fruits, Citrus Indica (Memang Narang).
- Contains Nokrek Peak (1,412 meters), the highest point in the Garo Hills range.
Last Updated: August 2026