Bhalukpong

Bhalukpong is a relatively unexplored tourist destination lying on Tezpur - Bomdila route (52 KM from Tezpur and 100 Km from Bomdila) in Arunachal Pradesh in far Eastern corner in India. Apart from being the nature lover's paradise, Bhalukpong can provide you a complete experience with wildlife and a host of activities complimenting its natural beauty and the environment. Truly, one of the best kept secrets of the North East India, Bhalukpong is sure to leave anyone and everyone enchanted for their lifetime and provides ample opportunities to have a sneak-peek into the local native tribes’, fascinating cultures, lifestyle and traditions. The Kameng River running in the forest surrounding it makes the town even more attractive. Bhalukpong is an excellent adventure tourist destination offering a scope for plethora of outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, fishing, angling, camping and river rafting.

Located in the foothills of Himalayas in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, Bhalukpong is known for its breath-taking scenic beauty and serene and tranquil ambience which casts a spell on every holidaymaker coming from different parts of country looking for peace and serenity. Winters are the best time to visit the place with family or friends.

Tourist attractions in Bhalukpung include the Pakhui Game Sanctuary and Tipi Orchidarium, which hosts over 2600 cultivated orchids from 80 different species as well as tigers, elephants, barking dear and more. Best time to visit the center is in April-May when orchids are in full bloom. Pakke Tiger Reserve also known as Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary and Pakhui Tiger reserve is an 862 sq. km. wildlife sanctuary – the most attractive sightseeing spot in the region where tourists can either go on a day trip or even better can stay at one of the forest lodge.

About the town
Part of the small town is within the state of Assam. There is a check post where you will have to show your inner line permit before entering into Arunachal. The Assam side of Bhalukpong has a large number of shops lined up till the border. This is where most tourists buy their general consumables such as bottled water etc as the cost goes up and availability continually reduces as you go higher up within Arunachal.

The border area is mostly dusty, a little crowded and full of shops and small hotels. As one goes up a couple of kilometers, the scenery changes dramatically. You will find river Jia Bhorali on your right. The same river is known as Kameng in Arunachal. Bhalukpong itself falls within West Kameng district.

What to See
Tipi Orchidarium - is situated 5 km ahead of Bhalukpong close to the banks of the Kameng River. The place has one of the largest collection of rare orchids in the country. The best time to visit this center is between April and May when one can see the exotic orchid collection in full bloom. The Orchidarium houses over 2600 cultivated orchids from 80 different species.

Pakhui / Pakke - Bhalukpong is surrounded by the evergreen forests of the Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary. Since 2002 the Wildlife Sanctuary has been changed into a Tiger Reserve and its name is Pakke Tiger Reserve, although the old name still remains popular. The Tiger Reserve can be reached by crossing the Kameng river from Bhalukpong. Drive to Pakke is through the Assam side. Local communities have come together to develop some tourist amenities including homestays.

Fishing - There is an excellent scope of fishing mahseer in the Jia Bhoroli River near Bhalukpong. The wide valley, sparkling river, pure ambiance - all adds up your experience of peace here.

Visit Nameri - Nameri National Park is also in close proximity to Bhalukpong town. You can drive for half an hour (about 20 km) to reach some of the tented accommodations within the National Park. If you are interested in staying within the forest and do not mind compromising a little on the front of material comfort, we can also organize your stay in this forest accommodation. River Jia Bharali is in the vicinity and rafting in the river is a common tourist activity here. Even a day visit inside the forest is worth a dekko as the forest is rich in biodiversity and its population of large variety of wildlife such as Leopard, Bison, Sambar, dhole (the Asiatic wild dog), Hog Deer, Muntjac, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Capped Langur, Indian Giant Squirrel etc. Nameri is a birder's paradise with over 300 species of birds - including the white-winged wood duck, four distinct species of the Hornbill, Blue-bearded Bee-eaters, Babblers, Plovers etc.