Panbari reopens: NE’s tallest birding machan & pristine hill forest beckon nature enthusiasts

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 3, 2025

After years of intermittent closures, the Panbari Reserved Forest in Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve has reopened to visitors, offering an unparalleled experience in responsible wildlife tourism. Home to Northeast India’s tallest birding machan, this pristine hill forest is a haven for birdwatchers, butterfly enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers.

Nestled within the Bokakhat Range of Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Panbari boasts a rich tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen landscape. With nearly 300 bird species, including the Great Indian Hornbill, Black Baza, Blue-naped Pitta, and Sultan Tit, along with over 400 butterfly species and a diverse array of mammals like the Eastern Hoolock Gibbon, Clouded Leopard, and Chinese Pangolin, Panbari promises an extraordinary adventure.

Panbari has undergone significant upgrades to elevate the visitor experience while ensuring minimal ecological disruption.

In response to the growing demand for birding experiences, Panbari has made significant upgrades to improve the overall visitor experience. The introduction of specialized birding hides overmachans, provides visitors with unobtrusive viewing opportunities that allow for a closer look at the avian inhabitants in their natural habitat. These strategically placed hides will enhance the birdwatching experience, enabling enthusiasts to capture stunning photographs and witness the beauty of these birds without disturbing them.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, a new website has been launched for pre-booking birding sessions. Visitors are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance to avoid disappointment. The website includes essential information about the various birding routes, available hides, and the unique species that can be observed throughout the area.

In order to maintain the safety of both visitors and wildlife, strict guidelines have been established. Tourists are required to follow these guidelines diligently during their visits. This includes maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife, adhering to designated paths, and minimizing noise to avoid startling the animals.

Pre-Booking Requirement: Online pre-booking is mandatory at least 1 day in advance.

Group Size Limitations: A maximum of 3 vehicles and 12 persons are permitted per booking.

Mandatory Personnel: Each group must include 2 Armed Guards and 1 Local Guide.

Safety Protocols: Tourists are required to remain inside the jeep during the trek.

Designated Stops: Birders may only disembark at selected designated locations.

Compliance with Instructions: Birders must adhere to the guidance of the Local Guide and Forest/Armed Guards.

Staffing Requirements: Each group must include 2 experienced male staff members.

Entry and Exit Points: The entry point is at Modarjuri Camp, and the exit point is at the Panbari Beat Office.

Birding Counter Operations: The Panbari Birding Counter will be open at the Panbari Beat Office. Birding hours will be from 6 am to 10 am.

By following these precautions, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Panbari while ensuring the preservation of its delicate ecosystem. The reopening of Panbari presents a wonderful opportunity for tourists and communities to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re an avid birder, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Panbari promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature as it has long been recognized as a vital habitat for a plethora of bird species and is committed to conservation efforts that protect both the wildlife and the environment. The reopening of this cherished destination not only highlights the importance of ecotourism but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world.