Balpakram National Park National Park

Balpakram National Park is a protected area in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya noted for its steep gorges, sandstone plateaus and high biodiversity. It is recognised regionally for both its wildlife and its cultural significance in local Garo traditions.

The park comprises a mosaic of forest, grassland and rocky canyon habitats that support a variety of mammals and bird species, and it protects watersheds that drain toward the surrounding lowlands. The landscape contains notable viewpoints and narrow river gorges with seasonal cascades.

The area has long been part of Garo cultural geography and was designated for protection in the late 20th century to conserve wildlife and landscapes. Management goals focus on habitat protection and maintaining traditional connections between communities and the land.

Located in South Garo Hills district near the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border, the park is reached by road from regional towns and lies inland from the lowland plains that mark the international boundary.

• Cultural landscape: The area is culturally important to the Garo people and contains limestone gorges and plateaus that produce dramatic microclimates and seasonal waterfalls.

Balpakram is reached from towns such as Baghmara in South Garo Hills; the nearest larger transport hubs are Tura and Guwahati, from which road journeys and local transport are necessary. Hire local guides who understand seasonal road conditions and community permissions.

• Hire a local guide in Baghmara or nearby towns - park routes are not well marked and guides know the best viewpoints and safe trails.
• Visit the Balpakram plateau at sunrise to see cloud inversion and the chance of spotting endemic wildlife like the Khasi hillstar bird or Asian elephant herds.
• Support local homestays - many communities in Meghalaya welcome guests and part of park revenue is community-based.