The Forest Reserves of Ultapani &
the Golden Langurs of Chakrashila

The Forest Reserves of Ultapani & the Golden Langurs

Situated in the western plain of Assam bordering Bhutan, Kokrajhar is a major cultural and forest district. The central point of district landscape is **Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary**—a hilly forest reserve protecting the rare Golden Langur—and the cultural capital of the **Bodo Community** serving as the administrative seat of the Bodoland Territorial Council.

The visual identity of Kokrajhar district is Bodo orange and bamboo green. Defining the district is the **Chakrashila Sanctuary** (featuring scenic lakes Dheer and Beel), the **Bodo Handloom Weaving** (producing traditional bright yellow *Dokhona* dresses), and the rich biodiversity of the **Ultapani Forest Reserve**.

A major conservation success in Kokrajhar is the Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the second home of the endangered Golden Langur in Assam. The sanctuary's hilly forest landscape, dominated by deciduous trees and bamboo groves, is flanked by two large natural lakes, Dheer Beel and Diplai Beel. These wetlands serve as critical habitats for fish and migratory birds, while the surrounding forests provide shelter to the golden langurs. Local nature clubs, in partnership with the forest department, have established eco-tourism camps and boating facilities, allowing travelers to spot these primates and birds in their natural habitat.

As the administrative capital of the Bodoland Territorial Council, Kokrajhar is the cultural heartland of the Bodo tribe. The town is home to several cultural academies and handloom cooperatives that work to preserve Bodo heritage. Almost every rural home houses a traditional loom, where women weave the *Dokhona*, a wrap-around dress characterized by vibrant yellow, red, and orange colors adorned with geometric motifs (*Agor*). The local administration organizes annual cultural festivals at the Bodoland assembly complex, showcasing Bodo folk dances like the *Bagurumba*, folk songs played on the *Siphung* flute, and traditional Tai-Ahom martial arts.

The geography of the district features the Ultapani Forest Reserve, a pristine forest tract located along the Indo-Bhutan border. Often referred to as the 'Silent Valley of Assam', Ultapani is famous for its rich biodiversity, hosting rare species of butterflies, orchids, and birds, including the Great Indian Hornbill. The forest is also a critical habitat for the endangered Asian Elephant and the Royal Bengal Tiger. The local community has established eco-patrolling groups, protecting the forest from illegal logging and promoting low-impact butterfly tourism, offering travelers a quiet wilderness experience in the foothills of the Himalayas.

"Where the golden fur of the rare langur gleams in the canopy of Chakrashila, the wooden handlooms of Kokrajhar weave the bright patterns of the Dokhona."

The Chronology of the Bodoland seat & Forest Reserves

From the initial scientific documentation of the Golden Langur to the creation of the Bodoland Council and the promotion of local handlooms.

The Weaving of Dokhona & the Langurs of Chakrashila

Explore the primary heritage of Kokrajhar district. From the golden langur sanctuary of Chakrashila to Bodo handlooms and Ultapani forests, explore the tabs below.

The Wildlife Sanctuaries and the Handloom Parks

Explore the primary landmarks of Kokrajhar district. From Chakrashila sanctuary and Ultapani forest to handloom parks, click or hover on the cards below.

The Bodo fish curry & the Kokrajhar Markets

Kokrajhar's culinary heritage is defined by traditional Bodo pork and fish dishes cooked with fermented jute leaves (*Narzi*), wild herbs, and organic rice beers.

Plan Your Journey

The Unhurried 2-Day Route

Kokrajhar is best explored at a slow pace. From spotting golden langurs to touring local handloom parks, this itinerary is a perfect guide.

Frequently Asked