Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

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

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateMizoram
DistrictsForest Division of Mizoram
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 & WaterbodiesTlawng River, Chhimtuipui River (Kaladan), Tuirial River
Nearest AirportLengpui Airport Aizawl (AJL) – 35 to 80 km
Nearest Railway StationBairabi Railway Station (BHRB) / Silchar Junction – 130 km
Best Time to VisitOctober to April

Location

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

History

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

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: Capped Langur, Indian Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Gaur (Indian Bison), Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Slow Loris, Golden Jackal.
  • Predators & Carnivores: Clouded Leopard, Indian Leopard, Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal.
  • Herbivores & Ungulates: 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 Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Tlawng River, Chhimtuipui River (Kaladan), Tuirial River.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Reiek Tlang Peak, Vantawng Falls, Phawngpui Blue Mountain Peak.

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: Lengpui Airport Aizawl (AJL) – 35 to 80 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Bairabi Railway Station (BHRB) / Silchar Junction – 130 km
  • Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Mizoram.

Best Time to Visit

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

Accommodation

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

Conservation Highlights

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

Visitor Tips

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

Did You Know?

  • Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Mizoram notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
  • Preserves key wildlife species including Capped Langur and native avifauna.
  • Covers an exact area of 180.50 sq km along the Tlawng River watershed.

Last Updated: August 2026