Introduction

Tucked away in the green folds of the West Garo Hills, Nokrek National Park is Meghalaya’s first and only UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve. This untouched sanctuary is a dream destination for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and eco-travelers.

Famed for its rare red pandas, clouded leopards, and unique citrus gene pool, Nokrek offers a rich mix of biodiversity, tribal heritage, and breathtaking trails. If you're craving a deep jungle experience far from the tourist crowd, Nokrek is the place to be.

🌳 Key Features of Nokrek National Park

• 🐾 Rare Wildlife: Red pandas, clouded leopards, hornbills, and Hoolock gibbons
• 🌱 Flora & Fauna: Medicinal herbs, endemic orchids, and Meghalaya’s oldest citrus species
• 🥾 Trekking Trails: Multiple forest routes lead to scenic viewpoints and river streams
• 🏞️ Scenic Core Zone: Includes Nokrek Peak, the highest point in the Garo Hills
• 🛖 Cultural Encounters: Visit nearby Garo villages and learn about local traditions

📍 Location and How to Reach

• Region: West Garo Hills, near Tura
• 🛣️ From Tura: ~20 km (1 hour by vehicle, followed by a 5–7 km trek)
• 🛣️ From Shillong: ~330 km (8–9 hours by road)
• 🚉 Nearest Railhead: Guwahati (260 km away)
• 🛫 Nearest Airport: Guwahati or Shillong Airport

🚙 Travel Tip: Hire a local 4x4 from Tura and pair your visit with Siju Caves and Pelga Falls.

🗺️ Things to Do in Nokrek

1. Jungle Trekking – Explore forest trails that wind through bamboo groves and hill streams
2. Wildlife Spotting – Early morning or late evening hikes offer the best chances to see rare animals
3. Visit the Gene Sanctuary – Home to Citrus Indica, believed to be the ancestor of all citrus fruits
4. Nokrek Peak Hike – Trek to the summit (1,412m) for panoramic Garo Hills views
5. Birdwatching – Spot hornbills, pheasants, and migratory birds in the buffer zone

🏕️ Where to Stay

• Forest Guesthouses: Limited but available near the base at Rongrenggre
• Tura Hotels: Good variety of budget and mid-range options
• Eco Camps: Set up with local help near Chidekgre or Daribokgre villages

⛺ Note: Camping inside the core zone is not allowed without permits.

📅 Best Time to Visit

• ✅ October to April – Cool and dry, ideal for trekking and spotting wildlife
• 🌧️ Avoid June–September – Monsoons make trails slippery and risky
• 🌄 Start early – Most wildlife activity occurs around dawn or dusk

❗ Travel Tips

• 🦟 Carry insect repellent
• 🥾 Good hiking shoes are essential
• 💧 Bring enough water and light snacks for the trek
• 🗺️ Local guides are mandatory inside core forest zones
• 🔕 No mobile signal inside the park—go fully offline!

❓ FAQs – Nokrek National Park

Q1: Are red pandas easily visible in Nokrek?
Red pandas are present but extremely shy and elusive. Spotting one is rare and depends on timing and luck.

Q2: Is a permit required to enter the park?
Yes, you need entry permits from the forest department, and guides are mandatory for most treks.

Q3: Can I self-drive to Nokrek peak?
No, vehicles only go till the forest edge. The final stretch must be done on foot.

Q4: Is Nokrek safe for solo travelers?
Yes, but it’s highly recommended to go with a guide or local group due to limited infrastructure and remote location.

Q5: Is camping allowed in the park?
Camping is restricted to specific buffer zones and only with prior permission.

✅ Final Thoughts

Nokrek National Park is a living treasure trove of endemic species, tribal ecology, and untamed wilderness. Unlike commercialized parks, it offers a raw and immersive experience in one of the most biologically rich zones in the world.

👉 Ready to trek into Meghalaya’s wildest frontier? Book your Nokrek National Park eco-tour now at Travel Trek North East.