Balpakram National Park
Sub Place Details: Balpakram National Park, specifically the Mesa Point, is the crown jewel of tourism in South Garo Hills. Established in 1987, the park covers over 200 square kilometers of diverse landscape. Mesa Point is the highest flat-topped plateau within the park, offering a vantage point th at is second to none. From here, visitors can see the vast plains of Bangladesh stretching out into the horizon, often shimmering under the sun. The park is a UNESCO-recognized site and a biodiversity hotspot, housing rare species such as the Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, and the Indian Bison (Gaur). The plateau itself is a vast grassland interspersed with rare medicinal herbs and carnivorous plants like the Sundew and Pitcher Plant. The name Balpakram means "the land of perpetual winds," and at Mesa Point, you can truly feel the powerful gusts that give the park its name. The air is crisp and carries the scent of the wild forests below. Geologically, the plateau is unique, featuring "Black Diamond" rocks and strange magnetic anomalies that have fascinated scientists for decades. For the Garo people, this entire area is sacred. They believe that the spirits of the dead visit Mesa Point to tether their animals to the ancient trees before entering the gorge. This blend of natural beauty, rare wildlife, and deep-rooted spiritualism makes it a must-visit. The trek to Mesa Point takes you through various forest types, from tropical deciduous to evergreen. It is common to hear the calls of the Hoolock Gibbon echoing through the trees during the hike. The park management ensures that the area remains pristine by limiting the number of vehicles and visitors allowed each day. :
General information
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Ideal Duration:
6 to 8 HoursPlace Type:
National ParkEntry Fees:
Special Events:
Sub Place Special Event:
World Environment Day: Tree plantation drives and conservation talks held in June.
Garo Cultural Day: Occasional displays of traditional music and dance for visiting dignitaries.
...Sub Place Special Event:
World Environment Day: Tree plantation drives and conservation talks held in June.
Garo Cultural Day: Occasional displays of traditional music and dance for visiting dignitaries.
:Best Photo Spots:
Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Mesa Point Edge: The ultimate spot for a panoramic shot of the clouds meeting the Bangladesh plains.
The Pitcher Plant Colonies: Vibrant and unique subjects for macro photography. ...Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Mesa Point Edge: The ultimate spot for a panoramic shot of the clouds meeting the Bangladesh plains.
The Pitcher Plant Colonies: Vibrant and unique subjects for macro photography.
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Sub Place Things to Do:
Plateau Trekking: Hike across the flat expanse of the plateau to reach the extreme edge for the best views.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for the Red Panda and the Golden Cat in the surrounding thickets.
Cultural Learning: Listen to the guides explain the Garo myths regarding the spirits and the sacred trees.
Botanical Survey: Search for the carnivorous Pitcher Plant which grows in abundance around the plateau rim.
Sunrise Watching: Arrive early to see the sun rise over the hills, lighting up the Bangladesh plains.
Picnic at the Viewpoint: Enjoy a packed lunch at Mesa Point while feeling the "eternal winds.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous Sub Place:
Red Panda Habitat: One of the few places in India where the rare Red Panda can be spotted.
Panoramic Views: Famous for the Mesa Point view of the Bangladesh plains and the Tanguar Haor. ...Why Famous Sub Place:
Red Panda Habitat: One of the few places in India where the rare Red Panda can be spotted.
Panoramic Views: Famous for the Mesa Point view of the Bangladesh plains and the Tanguar Haor.
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Architecture:
Sub Place Architecture:
High-Altitude Plateau: A naturally flat landform elevated at 3,000 feet above sea level.
Dimensions: The park covers 220 square kilometers; the plateau itself spans several hundred he...Sub Place Architecture:
High-Altitude Plateau: A naturally flat landform elevated at 3,000 feet above sea level.
Dimensions: The park covers 220 square kilometers; the plateau itself spans several hundred hectares.
Flora Structure: The "architecture" of the vegetation includes rare stunted trees and vast carpet-like grasslands.
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How To Reach:
Sub Place How to Reach:
By Air: Guwahati Airport (GAU) is the primary gateway.
By Train: Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station.
By Road: NH 217 connects Tura to Ba... -
Near Tourist Places:
Chitmang Peak (20 KMS), Siju Cave (45 KMS), Baghmara Reserve Forest (62 KMS), Rongdong Falls (18 KMS), Mahadeo Canyon (5 KMS), Bangladesh Border (15 KMS), Naphak Lake (40 KMS), Siju Sanctuary (45 KMS), Tura (167 KMS), Dalu (100 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Sub Place Tourism Tips:
Health & Safety: Leeches are common in the forest; wear long socks and carry salt.
Packing: Bring a light jacket even in summer as the winds at Mesa Point are cold.
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Information about New and Updated Locations(433+) of Meghalaya Has Been Added :-
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