Nokrek National Park

Nokrek National Park is a protected area in India.

Nokrek National Park at a Glance

Location
Northeast Frontier, India, South Asia
Coordinates
25.475391, 90.375520
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry months) for tiger safaris and wildlife.

Getting to Nokrek National Park

Nearest airport: Baljek Airstrip, 21 km away.

Nearest international airport: হযরত শাহজালাল আন্তর্জাতিক বিমানবন্দর (DAC), 182 km away.

Weather & Climate in Nokrek National Park

The warmest temperatures in Nokrek National Park occur in September, averaging 21.2°C (up to 24.0°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 11.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in November with average rainfall of 14.3mm. Average humidity: 70.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 11.7°C (rainfall: 16.4mm)
  • February: 13.7°C (rainfall: 33.4mm)
  • March: 18.1°C (rainfall: 66.5mm)
  • April: 20.2°C (rainfall: 149.2mm)
  • May: 20.1°C (rainfall: 440.5mm)
  • June: 20.3°C (rainfall: 606.4mm)
  • July: 21.0°C (rainfall: 426.6mm)
  • August: 20.9°C (rainfall: 368.0mm)
  • September: 21.2°C (rainfall: 247.1mm)
  • October: 19.7°C (rainfall: 254.3mm)
  • November: 16.9°C (rainfall: 14.3mm)
  • December: 13.4°C (rainfall: 14.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Nokrek National Park

The best months to visit Nokrek National Park are March, November, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 11.74°C, rainfall 16.4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 74.6%
  • February: Good, temperature 13.73°C, rainfall 33.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 64.6%
  • March: Great, temperature 18.14°C, rainfall 66.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 20.24°C, rainfall 149.2mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 72.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 20.09°C, rainfall 440.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 84.4%
  • June: Poor, temperature 20.26°C, rainfall 606.4mm, sunshine 6.6 hrs, humidity 93.8%
  • July: Poor, temperature 21.04°C, rainfall 426.6mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 91.7%
  • August: Poor, temperature 20.86°C, rainfall 368mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 91.7%
  • September: Good, temperature 21.18°C, rainfall 247.1mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 88.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 19.71°C, rainfall 254.3mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 83.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 16.91°C, rainfall 14.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 70%
  • December: Good, temperature 13.45°C, rainfall 14.8mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 73.3%

Wildlife in Nokrek National Park

Home to 42 recorded species including 19 iconic birds, 11 birds of prey, 7 waterbirds, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Nokrek National Park

Based on average temperature of 18.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 18°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Nokrek National Park

3 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Northeast Frontier

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

Nokrek National Park FAQs

What unique wildlife can I hope to spot during a visit to Nokrek National Park?

Nokrek National Park is a crucial habitat for the endangered Red Panda, making it a prime destination for spotting this elusive creature. You might also encounter the Western Hoolock Gibbon, Asian Elephants, various species of wild cats, and a diverse array of birds unique to the Eastern Himalayas.

When is the ideal time to visit Nokrek National Park for wildlife viewing and what kind of experience should I expect?

The best time to visit is typically from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking through the dense forests. Unlike traditional jeep safaris, your experience here will likely involve guided nature walks and birdwatching, offering a more intimate connection with the park's rich biodiversity.

How accessible is Nokrek National Park, and what are the accommodation options for travelers?

Nokrek is relatively remote, located in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, requiring travel by road from major cities like Guwahati or Shillong to Tura. Accommodation within the park is very basic, often limited to forest guesthouses, so many visitors opt to stay in Tura and make day trips.

What permits are required to enter Nokrek National Park, and what are the typical costs involved?

Visitors are required to obtain entry permits from the Forest Department, which can often be arranged through local tour operators or at the park entrance. While specific costs vary, expect to pay nominal fees for entry, camera usage, and potentially for a mandatory local guide, which are generally affordable.

Are there specific trekking routes or areas within Nokrek National Park known for particular attractions?

The park is renowned for its Citrus Gene-Sanctuary, a unique area preserving wild species of citrus fruits, which can be explored via designated trails. Treks often lead to scenic viewpoints and offer opportunities for birdwatching, especially around the core zone and the Nokrek Peak area.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.