Sessa Orchid Sanctuary & Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary

Arunachal Pradesh, often called the “Land of the Rising Sun,” is a paradise for eco-tourists. While much of India’s wildlife tourism is dominated by tiger reserves and birding hotspots, Arunachal remains raw, untouched, and teeming with biodiversity.

Two of its gems are Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary (Pakke Tiger Reserve).

• Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is a botanical wonderland with more than 200 species of orchids, including rare Himalayan orchids that grow nowhere else in the world.

• Pakhui, on the other hand, is a UNESCO-recognized tiger reserve that shelters tigers, hornbills, elephants, and countless other species in dense tropical forests.

Visiting both in one trip gives travelers a taste of the botanical beauty and wildlife drama that makes Arunachal Pradesh special.

Sessa Orchid and Pakhui Sanctuary

• Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is world-famous for its rare orchids, housing over 200 orchid species in a lush Himalayan setting.

• Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary (also called Pakke Tiger Reserve) is a UNESCO-recognized Tiger Reserve, rich in elephants, hornbills, and vibrant forest ecosystems.

Together, these sanctuaries showcase the incredible biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh and are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and eco-travelers. 

Location & How to Reach

• By Road: Both sanctuaries are accessible from Tezpur (Assam). Sessa is ~25 km away, Pakhui is ~60 km from Tezpur.

• By Train: Nearest major railway station is Tezpur Railway Station (~50 km).

• By Air: Tezpur Airport (Salonibari) is the nearest, with Guwahati Airport (~200 km) as the major hub. 

Sessa Orchid Sanctuary Highlights

• Spread across 100 sq km in the Himalayan foothills.

• Home to over 200 species of orchids, including rare Paphiopedilum fairrieanum (lady’s slipper orchid).

• Dense forests, waterfalls, and trekking trails.

• Ideal for botanists, photographers, and eco-tourists. 

  

  Sessa Orchid Sanctuary

Pakhui (Pakke) Wildlife Sanctuary Highlights

• Covers 862 sq km of tropical forest in East Kameng district.

• Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2002.

• Famous for hornbills (Great, Wreathed, Oriental Pied), elephants, tigers, leopards, and clouded leopards.

• Rich in butterflies and reptiles, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

• Best explored through safaris and guided treks. 

Forests & Rivers

Pakhui’s landscape is dramatic — from lowland rivers to dense Sal forests and bamboo thickets. The Pakke River flows along its boundary, nourishing the sanctuary and supporting its wildlife.

Eco-Conservation

What makes Pakhui unique is the role of local Nyishi tribes, who partner in protecting hornbills and forests. Several community-based eco-tourism initiatives ensure that tourism benefits both wildlife and people. 

Timings & Entry Fee

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100 per person (extra charges for cameras and safaris)

• Permits required for visiting Arunachal Pradesh (Inner Line Permit – ILP). 

Best Time to Visit

• November – April: Pleasant weather, orchids in bloom, wildlife sightings at their best.

• May – October: Heavy rains, access difficult. 

Things to Do

• Trekking and orchid exploration at Sessa Orchid Sanctuary.

• Wildlife safari and birdwatching in Pakhui Tiger Reserve.

• Photography of orchids, hornbills, and Himalayan landscapes.

• Eco-tourism experiences with local tribal communities 

Nearby Attractions

• Tipi Orchidarium – A research & orchid breeding center.

• Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary – Birdwatching hotspot.

• Bomdila Monastery – Famous Buddhist monastery.

• Dirang Valley – Scenic valley with hot springs. 

Travel Tips

• Carry ILP (Inner Line Permit) for Arunachal entry.

• Best to hire a local guide for safaris & treks.

• Carry binoculars, trekking shoes, and rain protection.

• Accommodation is basic – eco-lodges and forest rest houses 

Conclusion

Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary are two jewels of Arunachal Pradesh. From rare orchids to tigers and hornbills, they offer an unforgettable eco-tourism experience for nature lovers. 

Travel Quick Facts

Fact	Details
Location	Arunachal Pradesh (near Tezpur, Assam)
Nearest City	Tezpur
Nearest Railway Station	Tezpur (50 km)
Nearest Airport	Tezpur (Salonibari), Guwahati (200 km)
Timings	6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee	₹50–100 per person
Best Time to Visit	November – April
Famous For	Orchids (Sessa), Tigers & Hornbills (Pakhui)
Nearby Attractions	Tipi Orchidarium, Bomdila, Dirang, Eaglenest Sanctuary

Rare Orchid Discovery in Arunachal Pradesh

• Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India discovered a new orchid species, Hemipilia basifoliata, in Lower Dibang Valley (2,400m altitude).

• Published in Biodiversity: Research and Conservation (June 2025).

• Unique traits: glabrous sepals, more flowers, and distinct floral structure compared to similar species.

• Extremely rare in the wild, highlighting the need for urgent conservation.

• Discovery credited to Dr. Krishna Chowlu, who was honored with the “Land of Rising Sun” plaque by the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

  

  Dr. Krishna Chowlu-Hemipilia basifoliata

The find emphasizes the Eastern Himalayas’ rich biodiversity and the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems.

First-ever photographic evidence of Rare Pallas’s cat.

This first-ever documentation of the Pallas’s cat in the mountains of Arunachal highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of our high-altitude ecosystems and underscores the need for sustained conservation efforts to protect both the habitat and its unique wildlife.two jewels of Arunachal Pradesh. From rare orchids to tigers and hornbills, they offer an unforgettable eco-tourism experience for nature lovers.

FAQ

Q1: What is Sessa Orchid Sanctuary famous for?
A1: It’s known for its 200+ orchid species, including rare and endangered Himalayan orchids.

Q2: Where is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located?
A2: In East Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh, near Tezpur (Assam).

Q3: What’s the best time to visit?
A3: November – April, when orchids bloom and wildlife is active.

Q4: Do I need a permit?
A4: Yes, visitors need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.

Q5: What wildlife can be seen at Pakhui?
A5: Tigers, elephants, hornbills, clouded leopards, and diverse butterflies.

Q6: Are trekking options available?
A6: Yes, both sanctuaries have trekking trails with local guides.