Balpakram National Park

Balpakram means "land of perpetual winds" in Sanskrit. In the year 1985, it was designated as a National Park. The park's total area is 220.00 Km2. The park has immense natural glory, and as a result, it provides a picturesque view for the large number of tourists that it attracts. It is located at an elevation of more than 3,000 feet.

Location of Balpakram National Park

The park's location is such that it is convenient and easily accessible to Bangladesh's borders. The park has elevations ranging from less than 200 to more than 800 meters above sea level.

Balpakram is located between the latitudes of 25°20′ N and 25°30′ N, and the longitudes of 90°45′ E to 91° E.

This amazing National Park can be explored by traveling through various cities. Balpakram National Park is approximately 56 kilometers from the town of Tura. However, the national park is 218 kilometers away from Shillong, followed by Guwahati, which is about 220 kilometers away from Balpakram National Park.

Insights into Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park is home to a diverse range of flora, fauna, and marine fossils. Wildlife species include wild water buffalo, red pandas, elephants, tigers, leopards, wild cows, deer, and marbled cats, among others. The Barking deer and the Golden cat are also part of the park. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this endangered species.

Another attraction that makes a visit to this national park worthwhile is the canyon-cum-gorge. The rare medicinal herb 'Dikges,' which grows abundantly here, also gets its fair share of attention. Places like this give an individual a new perspective and make them appreciate natural ingredients more than ever.

The beautifully curved trees, canyons, dense forests containing some extinct and rare species, and unsolved mysteries all combine to create a one-of-a-kind experience.

Balpakram's main flora and fauna are birds. There are hundreds of bird species to be found. However, the main draw is the opportunity to explore the mythical and fierce terrain of this high altitude. Ground orchids and other herbs and bushes in multi-color blooms cover acres and acres of vast tableland, creating an unforgettable sight

History of Balpakram National Park

In the year 1985, it was designated as a National Park. There is a deep gorge in Balpakram that is often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States of America.

It has been discovered that the Garos have a strong belief in spirits and myths, and their mythologies are similar to those of the Greeks. Furthermore, the Balpakram Park contains a number of mysterious stories and unnatural phenomena that no one can easily explain and satisfy the queries, leaving many questions unanswered even by modern science and different logics.

The local tribe who lives in the area believes that this hill is a sort of resting place for departed souls. This belief stems from the area's many strange yet natural physical and biological formations.

Balpakram is so blanketed in legends that even Hindus regard it as a sacred site. They believe that when Laxman was seriously injured in the war, a very rare life-saving herb was required, and Lord Hanuman discovered it here but, unsure which to take, broke the top of the hill and carried it away. That hill's missing section became a deep-roof canyon.

Another mythological theory regards this location as sacred. A Schima wallichii tree with depression on its trunk is thought to exist. Locals believe it was caused by spirits passing through on their way to the abode of the dead and tether animals killed at funerals. Surprisingly, a few years ago, when one tree fell due to high winds, another tree nearby exhibited the same symptoms.

The following are a few of the mysterious locations: Boldak matchu karam, Matchru, Chidimak, Areng patal, Dikkini ring, Goncho Dare, Rongsaljong Agal, and Rongsobok Rongkol are a few examples.

This alone has managed to attract a vast number of tourists to this place.

Best Time to visit Balpakram National Park

The months of October to March are the best months to visit the Balpakram National Park. Like any other in Meghalaya, a trip to this state should be avoided during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall in the area. It is always advised not to visit this location during the rainy season, especially during the peak.

Traveling to Balpakram National Park

a) Air

Guwahati airport is the closest airport to Balpakam National Park. It is approximately 220 kilometers from the magnificent National Park. Guwahati airport is well connected by road network to Balpakram National Park, making the journey simple and beautiful as one passes through the stunning natural beauty of Meghalaya's regions.

b) Rail

Guwahati railway station is the nearest railway station. It is approximately 220 kilometers from the Balpakram National Park. Guwahati railway station, like the airport, is well connected to the National Park by road network.

c) Road

As previously stated, Balpakram National Park is well connected by a road network to major cities and places. Balpakram National Park is accessible via a variety of government and privately-operated vehicles.

When in Guwahati, hire an SUV to take you to Baghmara. The SUV can be rented for the entire trip from Guwahati/Goalpara to Baghmara. Helicopter services are also available from Shillong and Guwahati to Tura. One can choose a mode of transportation based on their budget and convenience.

Accommodation at Balpakram National Park

There are no rest stops in the park if you want to call it a day in that area. However, hotels and guesthouses are available for accommodation in Shillong, Guwahati, Tura, and Baghmara. Baghmara Tourist Lodge, located on a small hilltop, is a popular place to stay. The Balpakram National Park is only 47 kilometers away.

It is a must-see destination because of the mysteries surrounding it as well as the rare species found in the area. A place that intrigues you while also entertaining you with its beauty and charisma.