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Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Meghalaya, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Meghalaya |
| Districts | Forest Division of Meghalaya |
| Year of Notification | 1978 (Wildlife Protection Act) |
| Total Area | 180.50 sq km |
| Landscape | Tropical evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen broadleaf canopy, bamboo breaks, and riverine forest streams. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Simsang River, Umngot River (Dawki), Umiam River, Myntdu River |
| Nearest Airport | Shillong Airport Umroi (SHL) / Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport Guwahati (GAU) – 40 to 95 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) – 85 to 120 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Meghalaya region of Meghalaya. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Meghalaya.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Meghalaya.
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: Asian Elephant, 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: Asian Elephant, 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 Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Simsang River, Umngot River (Dawki), Umiam River, Myntdu River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Nohkalikai Falls Cherrapunji, Living Root Bridges, Dawki Clear River, Mawlynnong.
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: Shillong Airport Umroi (SHL) / Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport Guwahati (GAU) – 40 to 95 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) – 85 to 120 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Meghalaya.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Meghalaya.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Meghalaya notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Asian Elephant and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 180.50 sq km along the Simsang River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026