Nokrek National Park

Nokrek is a national park in West Garo Hills within the Indian state of Meghalaya, spreading across forested slopes and rocky terrain. The landscape shifts between dense forests, steep hillsides and summit zones with formations from ancient rock layers.

The area received UNESCO recognition as a biosphere reserve in 2009, bringing international attention to its ecological value. This designation followed scientific surveys that had discovered rare plant species in the region.

The name Nokrek comes from a prominent peak within the protected area, which local Garo communities have regarded as part of their homeland for generations. Visitors today see the connection between traditional land stewardship and modern conservation in the buffer zones around the core area.

Permits from the state forestry office are required for access and should be arranged in advance. The best period for exploring runs from October to May, when trails are most passable.

A citrus gene sanctuary within the protected area preserves wild Citrus indica specimens found during earlier expeditions. This collection offers a rare window into the origins of cultivated citrus fruits and their wild ancestors.