Balpakram National Park is one the best national parks in Meghalaya, located around 210 km from Shillong – the capital hill station of Meghalaya. Balpakram literally translates as “the land of perpetual winds” and is locally known as “the land of Spirits” by the Garo Tribe.The jungles, towering cliffs, and even the rivers in the Balpakram National Park play a significant role in Garo Folklore with its mythical and mysterious stories. Besides its mythical charm, this is one of the national parks in Meghalaya that is home to incredible wildlife, including the endangered wild water buffalo, and a rich variety of unique plants.
Garo Hills Balpakram National Park is a must-visit during your Meghalaya Trip as this place perfectly blends nature, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural!
Let’s know more about this place with our Travel guide to Balpakram National Park.
About Balpakram National Park
One of the best places to visit in the Garo Hills in Meghalaya is the Balpakram National Park. It was declared a national park on 27th December 1987 by the late Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi. Spanning 220 sq km, it is located in the South Garo Hills at an altitude of about 910 m (3,000 ft), near the tri-border of Garo Hills, Khasi Hills, and Bangladesh.According to the Garos, a local tribe of this region, this hill is believed to be the final resting place of dead spirits, adding a mystical charm to its rugged terrain. This belief is supported by the numerous strange yet naturally occurring physical and biological structures in the area. There are a variety of rare flora and fauna found in the area, including marine fossils, making Balpakram National Park, a biodiversity hotspot.
What makes this place even more extraordinary is its rugged terrain, shaped by unending summer winds and storms, which have sculpted the plateau into a continuous mass of rock and rubble. But the real gem lies in the deep gorge, often compared to the famed Grand Canyon of the United States.
This canyon divides the Garo Hills Plateau from the Khasi Hills Plateau, making it one of the most beautiful valleys in Meghalaya. The rocky Balpakram Plateau offers breathtaking views of the plains of Bangladesh, with silver rivers meandering through its landscapes.
If you’re looking for offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya, Balpakram National Park is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. This unique national parks in Meghalaya blends natural wonders, wildlife, and fascinating tales into an unforgettable experience.
Secrets of the Balpakram National Park
“Every Garo must see Balpakram, if not in life, then in death” – this saying reflects the deep-rooted legends and mysteries surrounding Garo Hills Balpakram National Park in Meghalaya, making it a place of spiritual and cultural significance for the Garo people. Here’s a glimpse into the mythical stories and natural wonders of this enchanting national park.Balpakram is a place where the Garo tribe feels spiritually connected to their ancestors. Garos believes that visiting Balpakram is a must to be reincarnated as a human. The national parks in Meghalaya is dotted with sacred sites, each with its own story. Gandhi Soram, with its three hillocks, marks the funeral site of tribal ancestors. Mebit, the Oracle rock, holds pebbles that predict where the Jhum fields must be opened. Balpakram Gorge is said to be the resting place of spirits, while Chidimak, a black pool, is believed to be their bathing spot, turned dark by the ashes of spirits. Me.mang Anti-Charam becomes a market for spirits, and the Dikini Ring, resembling an upside-down boat, is another intriguing mystery of the park.
Beyond its legends, the park offers incredible ecological diversity, making it a top choice for a travel guide to Balpakram National Park. So.gin Sa.ram serves as a nesting ground for vultures, while Matcha Melaram is a meeting place for tigers. Deoban, thought to be a fishing spot for deities, highlights the rich wildlife in Balpakram National Park, showcasing its natural wonders alongside its mystical significance.One of the park’s most mysterious attractions in this national parks in Meghalaya is the massive magnetic rock. This massive hollow rock emits a magnetic force so strong that animals and birds venturing too close are drawn into the hollow, leading to their demise. Curiously, humans remain unaffected, adding to the mystery of this natural phenomenon.These mythical tales and ecological marvels make Balpakram National Park one of the most fascinating national parks in Meghalaya, where nature and folklore come together in perfect harmony in the heart of the Garo Hills. Thus, visiting this places is one of the best things to do in Meghalaya.
Unique Flora and Fauna of Balpakram National Park
Nestled in heart of Meghalaya, Garo Hills Balpakram National Park is a treasure trove of rare plants and animals, making it a must-visit place in Meghalaya for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This enchanting forest is an essential stop in any travel guide to Balpakram National Park, offering a glimpse into the unique biodiversity of Meghalaya.The park is home to fascinating plant species, including the carnivorous pitcher plant, which traps insects. Balpakram’s forests also shelter the Rudraksha tree, known for its sacred seeds and spiritual significance. Another remarkable find is the Schima wallichii, a tree with a distinctive depression, believed to be a result of tethered animals and harsh weather, adding a mysterious charm to the park.
The wildlife in Balpakram National Park is equally captivating. Visitors may spot the elusive Hoolock Gibbon, the charming Red Panda, the majestic Clouded Leopard, and the powerful Indian Bison. The Asiatic Black Bear also calls this park home. For bird enthusiasts, the park offers sightings of vibrant species like the Hornbill, Peacock Pheasant, and the rare Garo White Hornbill, an emblem of the region.
The best time to visit Balpakram National Park is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the park’s beauty is at its peak. With its incredible flora, fauna, and mystical charm, Balpakram is a paradise for anyone seeking to connect with the wonders of the natural world.
Do Checkout – Meghalaya With Kaziranga Road Trip
Things To Do In Balpakram National Park
If you’re planning a visit to Balpakram National Park Meghalaya, get ready for a world of unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Garo Hills.- Trekking: Trekking in Balpakram National Park is amazing! It can take anywhere from 7 to 8 hours to get around, depending on the weather and how the animals move around. One of the most popular spots is Deoban Lake with the Bat Cave. You’ll get to see crystal clear waters, schools of fish, untouched limestone caves, and lush tropical forests full of birds while trekking in Balpakram National Park. It’s definitely one of the best adventure activities to do in Meghalaya.
- Camping: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and camp out in the Garo Hills Balpakram National park. Relax and enjoy the peaceful vibe, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the stars. You’ll be surrounded by campfires and the beautiful sound of nature.
- Cave Exploration: While trekking in Balpakram national park explore the mysteries of the limestone caves her. These uncharted underground chambers offer a chance to discover the hidden wonders of the earth. This is one the best places for cave exploration in Meghalaya which is not just an adventure but a journey into the unknown.
- Bird Watching: Balpakram is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Set out with your binoculars and explore the skies, keeping an eye out for unique avian species that call this park home. From the majestic hornbill to the vibrant peacock pheasant, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of birdlife.
- Photography: Balpakram National Park is a photographer’s dream. The stunning landscapes, rare wildlife in Balpakram National park, and unique geological formations provide endless opportunities for capturing nature’s beauty through your camera lens.
- Waterfall Exploration: Discover the enchanting waterfalls of Meghalaya that are a part of the Balpakram National Park. These waterfalls offer a unique water adventure activity of Meghalaya, adding a touch of adventure to your trip. They also provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and picnics.
- Interact with the Locals: Connect with the Garo people and gain insights into their traditions, folklore, and way of life. Sharing experiences with the locals can be an enriching cultural exchange.
This Travel Guide to Balpakram National Park promises a wide range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It’s a place where natural beauty and cultural heritage come together, offering an abundance of memories to cherish.
Best time to visit Balpakram National Park
The best time to visit Balpakram National Park is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the park’s lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and unique biodiversity. The skies are clear, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the plains of Bangladesh. The monsoon season in Meghalaya, from June to September, is not a good time to visit as heavy rains make the trails slippery and challenging to navigate. The dry season ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for nature walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring the cultural and ecological wonders of this enchanting park.
If you’re planning a trip to Meghalaya, keep in mind that the best time to visit Balpakram National Park is during the winter and early spring months to experience its beauty at its peak.
How To Reach Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park is located in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya and is accessible by air, rail, and road. Here’s a simple guide on how to reach Balpakram National Park:- By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 220 km away. From Guwahati, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tura, which is the closest major town to Balpakram. From Tura, the park is approximately 90 km away and can be reached by road.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Guwahati, you can take a taxi or bus to Tura. The journey from Guwahati to Tura takes around 6–7 hours by road.
- By Road: If you’re planning a road trip, Balpakram is well-connected to Tura by motorable roads. Tura itself is linked to Shillong and Guwahati by highways. From Tura, you can hire a local taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
