The Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is a protected area in Arunachal Pradesh, India, known for its rich biodiversity and particularly for its wide variety of orchids. Covering approximately 100 square kilometers, it's a place of ecological importance and scenic beauty.
The sanctuary is located in the West Kameng district near Bomdila in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Eastern Himalayan region and is a part of the Kameng Protected Area Complex.
The best time to visit the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is from March to May when the weather is pleasant, and orchids are in full bloom, offering a magnificent spectacle of colors and fragrances.
Apart from being home to more than 200 species of orchids, the sanctuary also supports a diverse range of other flora including rhododendrons, bamboo and ferns. The fauna in the sanctuary includes various species of birds, insects and butterflies, and smaller mammals.
Yes, visitors may need to pay a nominal entry fee and obtaining an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is necessary for non-local tourists to enter Arunachal Pradesh, including access to the sanctuary. It’s advisable to check the latest requirements and fees with local authorities as they may change.
Facilities within the sanctuary itself might be limited to basic amenities such as walking paths and signages. However, nearby towns like Bomdila offer accommodation, restaurants, and other tourist facilities.
Guided tours might not be available directly through the sanctuary management, but local tour operators in Bomdila or other larger towns in Arunachal Pradesh can often arrange for guided visits including transportation and informative sessions about the sanctuary's biodiversity.
Visitors should respect the natural environment by not disturbing the wildlife, littering, or picking any plants. It's also advisable to carry water, wear comfortable walking shoes, use insect repellent, and plan for weather changes given the sanctuary's mountainous location.
The sanctuary is located at a distance of approximately 24 kilometers from Bomdila, and the journey can be covered by road in about an hour, depending on the road conditions and the weather.
Usually, overnight stays within the sanctuary are not permitted, but visitors can find various accommodation options in Bomdila and other nearby towns.
