Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary
A Biodiversity Hotspot: Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary is a sprawling protected area of 184.80 square kilometers that sits right on the edge of the international border. It is a critical link in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, housing ecosystems that range from tropical semi-evergreen t o bamboo forests. The sanctuary is famous for being the only place in India where one might still catch a glimpse of the endangered Green Peafowl. It is home to diverse fauna, including the Hoolock Gibbon (the only ape in India), Malayan Sun Bears, and the elusive Clouded Leopard. The landscape is characterized by the Lokchao river which snakes through the dense canopy, providing a lifeline for the animals. For bird watchers, this is a paradise with over 100 recorded species, including the rare Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant. The sanctuary also has seven forest villages within its boundaries, where humans and wildlife live in a delicate, ancient balance. Exploring the trails here feels like stepping back into a primal world where nature reigns supreme. The dense foliage often hides rare orchids that bloom in vibrant colors during the spring. It is a place of immense scientific importance and a must-visit for anyone serious about wildlife conservation and eco-tourism in Northeast India.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Wildlife & Eco-TourismEntry Fees:
Sanctuary Permit Fees:A permit from the Wildlife Warden is required, costing approximately 50 to 100 for Indians and 500 for foreigners. Photography charges are extra, usually 100 for a still camera and 500 for professional video equipment to support conservation. ...Sanctuary Permit Fees:A permit from the Wildlife Warden is required, costing approximately 50 to 100 for Indians and 500 for foreigners. Photography charges are extra, usually 100 for a still camera and 500 for professional video equipment to support conservation.Timing:
Sunrise to Afternoon Hours:The sanctuary is best explored between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM for maximum visibility and safety from wild predators.
Ideal Visit Time:The early morning (6 AM to 9 AM) is the absolute best time to hear the distinctive ...Sunrise to Afternoon Hours:The sanctuary is best explored between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM for maximum visibility and safety from wild predators.
Ideal Visit Time:The early morning (6 AM to 9 AM) is the absolute best time to hear the distinctive calls of the Hoolock Gibbons.Special Events:
World Wildlife Day:Celebrated in March, the forest department organizes awareness camps and photography exhibitions to highlight the importance of the sanctuary's rare species. This is a great time to interact with conservationists and learn about the "Save the Green Peafow...World Wildlife Day:Celebrated in March, the forest department organizes awareness camps and photography exhibitions to highlight the importance of the sanctuary's rare species. This is a great time to interact with conservationists and learn about the "Save the Green Peafowl" initiative.Best Photo Spots:
The Lokchao River Bridge:The suspension bridge over the river provides a dramatic focal point for landscape shots with the dense forest in the background.
The Giant Banyan Trees:Certain parts of the sanctuary feature ancient trees with massi...The Lokchao River Bridge:The suspension bridge over the river provides a dramatic focal point for landscape shots with the dense forest in the background.
The Giant Banyan Trees:Certain parts of the sanctuary feature ancient trees with massive prop roots that create a mystical, "Jungle Book" vibe for photos.
Wildlife Observation Hides:The camouflaged hides near the water holes allow for close-up shots of birds and small mammals without disturbing them.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Early Morning Jungle Safari:Taking a guided walk or a jeep safari at dawn increases the chances of spotting the Hoolock Gibbon and various deer species.
Bird Watching Expeditions:The sanctuary is a hotspot for spotting the Blyth’s Tragopan and Hornbills in the tall canopy trees.
Trekking Along the Lokchao River:The riverbanks offer scenic trails that are perfect for a nature trek, with opportunities to see riverine birds and reptiles.
Photography of Rare Flora:The sanctuary is famous for its wild orchids and medicinal plants, which provide excellent macro-photography opportunities.
Visiting the Forest Villages:Learning how the local villagers use traditional knowledge to coexist with wild animals is a unique cultural experience...Early Morning Jungle Safari:Taking a guided walk or a jeep safari at dawn increases the chances of spotting the Hoolock Gibbon and various deer species.
Bird Watching Expeditions:The sanctuary is a hotspot for spotting the Blyth’s Tragopan and Hornbills in the tall canopy trees.
Trekking Along the Lokchao River:The riverbanks offer scenic trails that are perfect for a nature trek, with opportunities to see riverine birds and reptiles.
Photography of Rare Flora:The sanctuary is famous for its wild orchids and medicinal plants, which provide excellent macro-photography opportunities.
Visiting the Forest Villages:Learning how the local villagers use traditional knowledge to coexist with wild animals is a unique cultural experience.
Sunset from the Watchtower:The high vantage points offer a spectacular view of the sun dipping behind the Myanmar hills, painting the forest in gold.
Identifying Animal Tracks:With a skilled guide, one can learn to identify the pugmarks of leopards or the footprints of wild boars on the forest floor.
Information
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Why Famous:
Endangered Species Habitat:The sanctuary is world-famous as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and for its population of Hoolock Gibbons. It is also a rare trans-border corridor for Asian Elephants migrating between India and Myanmar, making it a critical zone for international w...Endangered Species Habitat:The sanctuary is world-famous as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and for its population of Hoolock Gibbons. It is also a rare trans-border corridor for Asian Elephants migrating between India and Myanmar, making it a critical zone for international wildlife management. -
Architecture:
Nature-Integrated Infrastructure:The architecture within the sanctuary is limited to eco-friendly "Forest Rest Houses" and watchtowers. The main rest house at Moreh is built with locally sourced timber and stone, measuring about 50 feet by 30 feet, designed to blend into th...Nature-Integrated Infrastructure:The architecture within the sanctuary is limited to eco-friendly "Forest Rest Houses" and watchtowers. The main rest house at Moreh is built with locally sourced timber and stone, measuring about 50 feet by 30 feet, designed to blend into the forest. The watchtowers are made of reinforced bamboo and wood, standing 20 feet high to provide an unobstructed view of the salt licks where animals frequently visit. -
How To Reach:
By Air:The closest airport is Imphal, followed by a 3-hour drive via the Indo-Myanmar Road.
By Train: Dimapur remains the nearest rail connection, though one must travel through Imphal to reach the sanctuary.
By...By Air:The closest airport is Imphal, followed by a 3-hour drive via the Indo-Myanmar Road.
By Train: Dimapur remains the nearest rail connection, though one must travel through Imphal to reach the sanctuary.
By Road:The sanctuary is located along the NH-39, about 110 km from Imphal; the road passes through the scenic Tengnoupal hills.
By Local Transport:Shared taxis from Imphal or Chandel town to Moreh will drop you at the entrance of the sanctuary. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter and Spring: November to April is the best period as the dry weather makes animal sightings more frequent near water sources.
Early Morning:The first few hours after sunrise are the most active for birds and primates, offering the best...Winter and Spring: November to April is the best period as the dry weather makes animal sightings more frequent near water sources.
Early Morning:The first few hours after sunrise are the most active for birds and primates, offering the best experience. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Moreh Town (5 km), 2. Myanmar Border (2 km), 3. Tamu, Myanmar (10 km), 4. Tengnoupal (40 km), 5. Chandel (70 km), 6. Manipur River (30 km), 7. Pallel (60 km), 8. Kakching (75 km), 9. Imphal (110 km), 10. Moreh Market (6 km)
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety:Malaria precautions are a must; use insect repellent and wear full-sleeved clothing. Always follow the instructions of the forest guard.
Packing Essentials:Binoculars are indispensable here; wear camouflage or dull-color...Health and Safety:Malaria precautions are a must; use insect repellent and wear full-sleeved clothing. Always follow the instructions of the forest guard.
Packing Essentials:Binoculars are indispensable here; wear camouflage or dull-colored clothes to blend in and avoid scaring the animals.
Accommodation Options:The Forest Rest House at Moreh or transit camps within the sanctuary are the primary options; early booking is required.
Cash and Connectivity:Carry all necessary cash as there are no ATMs inside the forest; mobile signals are very weak, and data services are almost nil.
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