Tue Feb 04 07:58:26 UTC 2025: ## Assam’s Panbari Reserve Forest Reopens After 16-Year Closure, Boasting Rich Biodiversity

**GUWAHATI, INDIA (February 4, 2025)** – After a 16-year hiatus, the Panbari Reserve Forest, a vital part of Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, has reopened its doors to birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The 8km safari route, recently completed, allows access to a site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

Panbari, a hill forest teeming with tropical flora, is home to over 300 bird species, including the Asian fairy-bluebird, great Indian hornbill, and Jerdon’s baza. Its rich fauna also includes over 400 butterfly species and a diverse array of mammals such as the eastern hoolock gibbon, capped langur, Bengal tiger, and clouded leopard. The forest even boasts the tallest birdwatching machan in Northeast India.

The reserve’s closure in 2009 was attributed to accessibility issues and other unspecified factors. However, Kaziranga’s Field Director Sonali Ghosh announced the reopening, emphasizing a commitment to responsible tourism. Upgrades have been implemented to enhance the visitor experience, including specialized bird hides to provide unobstructed viewing opportunities without disturbing the wildlife. These additions aim to create a more sustainable and enriching experience for visitors, allowing them to enjoy the breathtaking biodiversity of Panbari while respecting the delicate ecosystem.

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