Key Highlights
- Chakrashila is the second Indian refuge for the threatened golden langur.
- It covers approximately 45.6 km² comprising hills, mixed forests, and two significant wetlands.
- The sanctuary supports a rich array of fauna including reptiles, birds, and over 40 butterfly species.
Detailed Insights
Location. Nestled in Assam’s Kokrajhar district, the sanctuary lies just 6 km from the district headquarters and 219 km from Guwahati International Airport.
Historical evolution. Declared a reserve forest in 1966, it received sanctuary status on 14 July 1994 following advocacy by the local group Nature’s†Beckon.
Physical attributes. The terrain is undulating, with the lower slopes populated by sal trees and higher elevations covered by mixed deciduous vegetation. Two large lakes, Dheer Beel and Diplai Beel, sustain the ecosystem.
Wildlife diversity. Beyond the golden langur, residents include the Indian short‑tailed mole, Indian flying fox, Chinese pangolin, Bengal fox, numerous bat species, hornbills, 23 reptile species, and a vibrant butterfly community.
Visitor experience. Birdwatching, forest trekking, and wildlife photography are popular activities, while nearby facilities in Choraikhola provide convenient accommodation.
Key Concepts
- Golden Langur (Trachypithecus major). An arboreal primate endemic to parts of Northeast India, classified as endangered.
- Reserve Forest. A protected area designated for conservation of wildlife and natural resources.
- Wildlife Sanctuary. A zone where flora and fauna are safeguarded, and human activity is regulated.
- Biodiversity. The variety of life forms present within a particular ecosystem.
- Endangered Species. Organisms facing a very high risk of extinction in the near future.