Mouling National Park was established in 1982 with the goal of providing a suitable habitat for flora and animals. It is situated on the right bank of the Siang River and has an area of 483 square kilometers. This park provides a safe haven for a wide range of vegetation and species. The vegetation in the area changes with altitude. The top reaches are covered in temperate alpine and coniferous forest, while the lower reaches are covered with tropical evergreen forest. This area is rich in ornamental plants such as foxtail and orchids. The park also features an impressive collection of animals and birds.
| 1 | Name of the National Park | Mouling National Park |
| 2 | Year established | 1982 |
| 3 | Area in Sq Km | 483 sq km |
| 4 | Elevation in m | 200m to 2775m |
| 5 | State / States spread in | Arunachal Pradesh |
| 6 | Main Animals found | Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, Asiatic black bear, red panda |
| 7 | Main Birds found | Great Indian hornbill, Rufous-necked hornbill, wreathed hornbill |
| 8 | Main reptiles found | King cobra, Indian rock python, common krait |
| 9 | Best time to visit | October to March |
Geology
The geology of the area is characterized by the presence of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. The sedimentary rocks in the region belong to the Tertiary period and consist of sandstones, shales, and conglomerates. The sedimentary rocks have been folded and faulted due to tectonic activity in the region. The sedimentary rocks are predominantly found in the lower areas of the park.
The igneous rocks in the Mouling National Park are mainly of the intrusive type and consist of granites, granodiorites, and diorites. The igneous rocks are mostly found in the higher elevations of the park. The metamorphic rocks in the region are mainly phyllites and schists, and they have been formed due to the high-grade metamorphism of the sedimentary rocks. The metamorphic rocks are found in the middle elevations of the park.
The region has been subjected to intense tectonic activity, which has resulted in the formation of numerous faults and folds. The geological history of the area is complex and has been influenced by the collision of the Indian Plate with the Eurasian Plate.
Winter snowfall occurs in higher altitudes when temperatures range from 15.0°C to 38.0°C. At heights over 2200 meters, temperatures range from 4.2 degrees Celsius to 17.70 degrees Celsius. Approximately 80% of total rainfall is received from May to October during the S/W monsoon. Winter rainfall averages 15% from December through March. 5% rainfall as conventional rain in the form of light showers from March to April. It averages around 2000 millimeters per year. The humidity level ranges from 60% to 80%.During the winter season, frost is widespread at elevations ranging from 900 to 1000 meters. Throughout the year, dew forms in the night. Cold winds are common, and prevailing breezes are moderate in other seasons.
Vegetation
The vegetation is often classified as Northern Tropical Forest at lower altitudes up to 1200 mtr and moist temperate Forest at altitudes ranging from 2800 mtr to 3600 mtr. The forest type varies with altitude, and the lower elevations are dominated by semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests, while the higher elevations are covered with sub-tropical and temperate forests.
The tropical evergreen forests are found in the lower regions of the park, where the climate is warm and humid. These forests are characterized by tall trees that can reach up to 50 meters in height, with dense undergrowth and a closed canopy.
- Primitive spp. – Magnolea, cythea, Gnetum, Griffithia etc.
- Palms – Livistoma, calamus, wallichia, caryota etc
- Pandamus, Musa also present
- Other common spp. like Betula, Alnus, Exbuklandia, Quercus spp.
The semi-evergreen forests are found at higher elevations and are characterized by a mix of broadleaf evergreen and deciduous trees. The tree species found in these forests include Quercus species, Schima wallichii, Magnolia species, and Prunus species.
The deciduous forests are found in the lower altitudes of the park and are characterized by a mix of deciduous trees such as Lagerstroemia parviflora, Syzygium cumini, and Terminalia chebula.
In the sub-tropical and temperate forests found in the higher elevations, the dominant trees include rhododendrons, oaks, and magnolias. Some of the tree species found in these forests include Rhododendron arboreum, Quercus species, and Magnolia species.
Wildlife
The Mouling National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Here are some of the animals, birds, and reptiles that can be seen in Mouling National Park:
| Animals | Birds | Reptiles |
| Asiatic black bear | Oriental pied hornbill | King cobra |
| Red panda | Rufous-necked hornbill | Indian python |
| Clouded leopard | Great hornbill | Common krait |
| Bengal tiger | Grey peacock-pheasant | Indian cobra |
| Leopard cat | Kalij pheasant | Assam roofed turtle |
| Wild dog | Satyr tragopan | Indian flapshell turtle |
| Gaur (Indian bison) | Ward’s trogon | Common Indian monitor |
| Sambar deer | Blyth’s tragopan | Bengal monitor |
| Barking deer | Beautiful nuthatch | Common wolf snake |
| Takin | Green cochoa | Himalayan pit viper |
| Serow | Black-necked crane | |
| Himalayan musk deer |
It is in a distant location with a weak communication system. There is no such tourism development proposed. Jengging is planning to build a modest museum and interpretation center.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Mouling National Park in Arunachal Pradesh is during the winter months of November to February. During this time, the weather is dry and pleasant, making it easier to explore the park and spot wildlife. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 20°C, and the park’s vegetation is lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for wildlife viewing. The monsoon season in the region lasts from June to September, and heavy rainfall can make the park inaccessible and increase the risk of landslides and flooding. Therefore, it is not recommended to visit the park during this time. The summer months from March to May can be hot and humid, and the park may experience occasional showers. However, this can be a good time to visit if you are interested in birdwatching, as many migratory birds visit the park during this time.
Mouling National Park is an important protected area in India, with significant ecological, cultural, and scientific value. Its protection is essential for the continued preservation of the park’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage, as well as the well-being of local communities and the broader ecosystem.
