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Dampa Tiger Reserve
Dampha is situated in the western part of Mizoram State on the international border with Bangladesh. The re
serve consists of moist deciduous forests in the lower reaches and evergreen and semi-evergreen forests with the natural grassland at higher altitudes.
The entire protected area is formed of undulating high and medium hills running from North to South directions with very high precipitous and inaccessible hills. The lower reaches of the area comprises of deep valleys with extensive flat land along the river namely Keisalam, Seling and Aivapui which finally drained into the river Khawthlagtuipui.There are numerous small perennial rivulets all over the Reserve except upper reaches where water holes-cum salt lick are being constructed at various locations for wild animals. Leaf Monkey is endemic to the Reserve. dampha is a bio-diversity hotspot with variety of flora and fauna of Indo-Malayan Origin
Climate of Dampa National Park: : Summer is mild while winter is quite chilly (minimum of 9°C, or 48°F). When 10 go: November to March are the best months to visit.
When to go ( Dampa National Park) : Park is accessible from the town of Aizawl, 128km (80 miles) away. Car hire available at Silchar airport. Feileng sells provisions for self-catering in the park.
Getting to Dampa National Park : Park is accessible from the town of Aizawl, 128km (80 miles) away. Car hire available at Silchar airport. Feileng sells provisions for self-catering in the park.
Facilities at Dampa National Park: Two rest houses with cooking facilities are located within the forest premises. It is necessary to carry one's own provisions.
Wildlife of Dampa National Park: Tiger, Leopard, and Clouded Leopard present, although rarefy seen. Many primate species, including Hoolock Gibbon and Stump-tailed Macaque.
Precautions at Dampa National Park: Anti-malarial prophylactics should be taken by visitors before arriving in the park.
Premits and Reservations for Dampa National Park: Permits required; obtained from the Ministry of External Affairs. For reservations, contact The Field Director, Dampa Tiger Reserve, Aizawl, Mizoram.. Ask Wildindiaguid.com to help you to get the best accomodation.
The National park : Dampa National Park
Bamboo and evergreen forests - Dampa National Park
Dampa, like many of the other northeastern parks of India, has a rich biodiversity and a productive ecosystem. In its lower reaches are moist deciduous and thick evergreen bamboo forests, while in the upper reaches semi-evergreen forest with natural grasslands are prevalent. Trees consist of a mixture of different species like Simal (Silk Cotton), Mesua ferrea, White Cedar, Tun (Cedrela toona), Agarwood, Indian Rubber tree and several species of bamboo and cane grasses as well as orchids. Some parts of the forest are very dense and inaccessible. Embarking on the forest's trekking trails (both one-day and several-day treks) to view this unique and diverse ecosystem is a wonderful experience
Conservation History
Dampha was under a Chieftain till 1950 and the main land use at that time was for Jhum (shifting) cultivation in the lower portion. In early 1960s, small hamlets started establishing in the area for intensive shifting cultivation in the lower reaches. This had detrimental effect on the biodiversity of the area. With the objective of conserving the fast disappearing natural treasure, in 1974, was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary. However, due to some minor procedural lapses the Sanctuary had to be re-notified in 1985. The Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994.
The riverine area towards the east and west along the Khawthland tuipui (also known as the Sazalui or the T
ui-lianpui river towards west and the Teirei river towards east) was declared as Reserved Forest in 1952 during District Council period.Forest Types
Tropical evergreen and Semi-evergreen forests ,Tropical moist deciduous forests , Sub Montane type.
Main Species ( Flora)Bamboos, canes and orchids.
Main Species (Fauna )
Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Wild dog, Sambar, Barking Deer, Gaur (Indian Bison), Sloth bear, Hoolock gibbon, Binturong, Porcupine, Slow loris, Jungle cat, Pangolin, Black Bear, Giant squirrel, Common langur, Rhesus macaque, Wild boar, Otter.
Endangered Species
Tiger, Gaur, Clouded Leopard, Elephant, Python, Hoolock gibbon, Slow loris, Serow, Binturong, Wild dog, Flying squirrel.
Management
Practices, Achievements and Shortfalls
Habitat improvement by planting utility tree species, development of water holes, creation of fire lines, construction of culvert, patrolling path and providing W/T sets.
Special Projects
New Initiatives
Eco-development
Eco-development programme was initiated in the villages surrounding Reserve in 1997-98. Nursery, soil and water conservation, use of non-conventional source of energy, smokeless chullahs, community development, education and awareness campaigns etc. have been taken up under ecodevelopment.
Protection Squads / Patrolling
No strike force has been set up as yet. Protection and patrolling is done through existing staff and daily wagers.
Education and Awareness
Lectures, painting and essay competitions for students are organised.
