Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

1. Location and Area of Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

• • • Geographical Location: Located in Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Assam.
    • Districts Covered: Kokrajhar and Chirang.
    • Bordering Protected Areas: Lies between Manas National Park (east) and Raimona National Park (west), forming a vital wildlife corridor.
    • Total Area: 321.90 sq. km.
    • Landscape Features:
      • • Dense tropical forests, riverine landscapes, and grasslands.
        • Part of the Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot.

2. Year of Establishment of Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

• • • Declared as Assam’s 8th National Park: February 16, 2025.

3. Biodiversity of Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

A. Flora of Dehing Patkai National Park

• • • • Vegetation Types:

        1. Tropical and Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests.

        2. Grasslands and Riverine Ecosystems.

      • Dominant Plant Species:

        • Hollong, Sal, Teak, Bamboo, and a variety of medicinal plants.

        • Rich in orchids and epiphytes due to high humidity.

B. Fauna of Dehing Patkai National Park

• • • • Mammals

        • Asian Elephant (Uses the park as a migratory corridor).

        • Royal Bengal Tiger.

        • Golden Langur (Endangered species, also the mascot of BTR).

        • Leopard, Indian Gaur, Barking Deer, and Wild Boar.

      • Avifauna (Birdlife – Important Bird Area)

        • Great Indian Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, and Hill Myna.

        • Over 300 bird species, including migratory and resident birds.

      • Reptiles & Amphibians

        • King Cobra, Python, Monitor Lizards, and Tree Frogs.

      • Invertebrates

        • Home to 460+ species of butterflies.

4. Major Rivers and Terrain in Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

A. Major Rivers

• • • • Saralbhanga River (locally called Swrmanga):

        • Forms a natural boundary with Raimona National Park.

B. Terrain & Climate

• • • • Landscape:

        • Hilly terrain with riverine forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

      • Climate:

        • Tropical monsoon climate.

        • Annual Rainfall: 2500-4000 mm.

        • Temperatures: Summers (20-35°C), Winters (8-18°C).

5. Conservation Challenges and Successes in Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

A. Conservation Challenges

1. 1. 1. 1. Deforestation and Illegal Logging.

         2. Encroachment and Agricultural Expansion.

         3. Poaching of Elephants and Golden Langurs.

         4. Human-Wildlife Conflicts (Elephant raids on crops).

B. Conservation Successes

1. 1. 1. 1. Declared a National Park to enhance legal protection.

         2. Increased wildlife monitoring and anti-poaching measures.

         3. Part of a transboundary conservation effort with Bhutan.

6. Eco-Tourism and Adventure Activities in Sikhna Jwjwlao National Park

• • • Jungle Safaris and Nature Walks.

    • Birdwatching Expeditions.

    • Ethnic Tourism (Bodo culture, eco-lodges).

    • Trekking and River Activities along Saralbhanga River.