Mouling National Park: Arunachal's Untouched Wilderness

Mouling National Park, located in the Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, is a pristine wilderness and a biodiversity hotspot. Established in 1982, the park covers an area of 483 square kilometers and forms the western part of the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve. The park's name originates from Mouling Peak, which translates to 'red poison' or 'red blood' in the local Adi language, referring to a unique tree species with crimson latex. The park's terrain is rugged, with altitudes ranging from 750 to 3064 meters. This variation supports diverse vegetation, from tropical evergreen forests at lower elevations to temperate alpine and coniferous forests in the upper reaches. The park is home to a wide array of flora, including bamboo, oak, rhododendron, and rare medicinal plants. Mouling National Park is also rich in fauna, housing endangered species such as the red panda, snow leopard, clouded leopard, and hoolock gibbon. Lucky visitors may also spot the Bengal tiger, capped langur, mithun (gayal), hornbills, monals and tragopans. The Siang River flows through the park, offering opportunities for angling and rafting. Trekking trails lead to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls like Dabung and Nirbung, and rivers, providing an immersive experience of the park's beauty. The best time to visit Mouling National Park is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant. The park is accessible via Pasighat or Along, with local transport available to reach the park. Permits can be obtained from the Forest Department office in Pasighat or Along.