Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Cuddled amidst the serenity of mountains, the small village of Pangti represents a tiny hamlet located in the Wokha district of Nagaland. Wokha is also famously known as "the land of plenty" owing to her abundant mineral resources and wide range of flora and fauna.
But what distinguishes Pangti is the fact that every year hundreds and thousands of Amur falcons, the famous migratory bird, flock to the region all the way from Siberia. It indeed is a sight to witness as they hover above your head in massive groups and are often seen sitting on the wires-sometimes stretching up to a kilometre in length.
Although once upon a time Pangti used to be notorious for hunting the Amur falcon, now it has transitioned towards protecting the bird through a conservation movement. Previously a hefty bunch of the federally protected Amur falcons used to be mercilessly hunted by the local Naga tribes during their 10-day roosting period by the Doyang river.
However, this phenomenon got highlighted in the news in 2012 and massive conservation initiatives were rolled out to save these birds. A year later, not even one Amur Falcon was killed. So much so that National Geographic, in 2017, listed Nagaland amongst the 10 best birding destinations in the world-all thanks to the Amur falcons.
Visiting this unexplored gem of Northeast India, learning more about the community-based initiative and witnessing hundreds of birds taking flight are definitely some things you should add to your bucket list right away.
Best Time To Visit Pangti
PC:PJeganathan
The best time to visit Pangti or Wokha is between the months of November and February, although it is during November that the number of Amur falcons is at its highest-from the roosting site you can spot an estimated lakh hovering in the sky as the sun begins to set. Enchanting, isn't it?
How To Reach Pangti
PC: PP Yoonus
By Air: The nearest airport to Pangti, Wokha, is Dimapur, which is situated at a distance of about 59 kilometres. Well-scheduled flights connect other major cities-Kolkata, Delhi, Patna, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Ahmedabad-to Dimapur.
By Train: Dimapur is also the nearest railway station, located 62 km away from Pangti. Regular trains connect it to other major cities of the country.
By Road: A road trip comes with its own enjoyment, and the one from Dimapur to Wokha is a journey as smooth as the breeze. The distance, by road, is approximately 125 km and it takes close to over 4 hours.
Steal A Sunset From Mount Tiyi
PC: Samudra bikash hazarika
Tiyi is located 1969 metres above sea level and hence, offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys during picturesque sunsets. According to the local Lotha legends, the mountain was home to a mystic orchard which could only be seen by lucky ones. Today Mount Tiyi stands as a famous trekking destination amongst adventure lovers and rhododendrons are common along the trail.
Relax Beside Doyang River
The Doyang river, also called Dzu or Dzulu by the local people, is one of the biggest and longest rivers in the region. Its striking natural beauty attracts tourists all year round. Visit the Doyang power plant and observe modern systems of cultivation, like terrace farming, on the banks of the river.
Spend Some Time In The Village
PC: Mike Prince
To truly experience the local life, a stay in any of the adjacent villages is strongly recommended. The woods near Pangti village are heaven for those who love fishing. You can come here and camp for days-fishing or simply enjoying being on the lap of nature. Or sighting those classy falcons!
