Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary – Roing, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled in the pristine Eastern Himalayas, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, is a true paradise for wildlife lovers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts. Spread across 282 sq. km, the sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity, stunning Mehao Lake, and vibrant orchids. With an altitude range from 400 m to 3,560 m, the sanctuary offers a unique blend of tropical evergreen forests, temperate forests, and alpine vegetation, making it a haven for diverse wildlife.

Location & Accessibility

• Location: Roing, Lower Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh

• Nearest Town: Roing (6 km)

• Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (140 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia Railway Station (120 km)

• By Road: Well-connected by road from Roing, Tinsukia, and Dibrugarh

Wildlife of Mehao Sanctuary

The sanctuary shelters a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds, making it an ecological treasure.

Mammals

• Tiger

• Leopard

• Clouded Leopard

• Himalayan Black Bear

• Red Panda

• Hoolock Gibbon

• Mithun (local semi-domesticated bovine)

Birds

• Hornbills

• Himalayan Monal

• Wren Babblers

• Pheasants

• Partridges

• Waterfowl around Mehao Lake

Timings & Entry Fee

• Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Best Season: October – April (clear skies & wildlife sightings)

• Entry Fee: Around ₹50 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners) – may vary

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (Oct – Mar): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking and wildlife watching.

• Summer (Apr – Jun): Warm and humid but great for exploring flora.

• Monsoon (Jul – Sep): Heavy rainfall, best avoided for travel due to landslides.

Things to Do

1. Wildlife Safari & Birdwatching – Spot rare mammals and vibrant bird species.

2. Trekking & Hiking – Trails around Roing and deeper sanctuary zones.

3. Visit Mehao Lake – A natural high-altitude lake amidst forests.

4. Orchid Spotting – The sanctuary is home to hundreds of orchid species.

5. Photography – Perfect for capturing Himalayan biodiversity.

Nearby Attractions

• Mehao Lake – A serene, crystal-clear lake inside the sanctuary.

• Mayudia Pass (56 km) – Snow-covered pass with breathtaking views.

• Roing Town – A cultural hub of the Idu Mishmi tribe.

• Bhismaknagar Fort – An ancient archaeological site near Roing.

Stays Near Mehao Sanctuary

• Eco-Camps in Roing – Nature-friendly stays for trekkers and backpackers.

• Guesthouses & Homestays – Local hospitality with authentic Arunachali food.

• Hotels in Tinsukia/Dibrugarh – For travelers preferring city stays.

Quick Facts

Fact	Details
Location	Roing, Arunachal Pradesh
Area	282 sq. km
Famous For	Mehao Lake, orchids, red panda, gibbons
Best Season	October – April

FAQ

Q1: Why is Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary famous?
A1: It is known for Mehao Lake, orchids, and unique Himalayan wildlife like the red panda, hoolock gibbon, and clouded leopard.

Q2: Do I need a permit to visit Mehao Sanctuary?
A2: Yes, Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign tourists need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

Q3: Is trekking allowed inside Mehao Sanctuary?
A3: Yes, trekking and guided nature walks are popular activities with permission.

Q4: Can I spot snow in Mehao Sanctuary?
A4: At higher altitudes and nearby Mayudia Pass, snowfall is common in winter.

Q5: What is the best time to see birds in Mehao Sanctuary?
A5: The winter season (Nov – Mar) is best for spotting migratory and native birds.

Conclusion

The Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh that combines wildlife adventure, Himalayan landscapes, and cultural richness. From spotting rare animals to exploring Mehao Lake and orchid-covered forests, it offers an unmatched experience for eco-travelers and explorers. Whether you are a trekker, birdwatcher, or nature lover, Mehao Sanctuary deserves a place on your Northeast India travel bucket list.