The story of Amur Falcon in North East India is inspiring for wildlife activists. The Amur Falcon, small but spirited birds, embark on an incredible migration journey from Siberia in the Northern Hemisphere to South Africa. In their journey, these raptors choose the Tamenglong district of Manipur as a roosting site. That is why Falcon Festival is celebrated in Tamenglong district
Amur Falcon Festival is an annual event held at Tamenglong district. This year(2024), the festival was held at Mini Stadium Apollo Ground . This festival aims to espouse the cause of wildlife conservation and promote the cultural heritage of the region.
About Amur Falcon
Every year, the Amur Falcon, a migratory bird, embarks on an incredibly long journey from the cooler climates of the Northern Hemisphere(Siberia) to the warmth of the Southern part of Africa. In northeast India, these remarkable birds make a brief appearance. North East India is the roosting ground for Amur Falcon. Three places of Northeast India namely Umrangso village of Assam, Pangti village of Nagaland and Tamenglong district of Manipur hosts large flocks of these avian travelers. Read this blog for more details about the story of Amur Falcon in Northeast India.
Why Falcon Festival is celebrated in Tamenglong?
Earlier, due to lack of awareness, these birds used to be killed for sport, meat and fun. However, local environmental activist and district administration stepped in to end this menace. As a result, the killing decreased. Since 2016, to generate more awareness about the protection and conservation these birds, the Amur Falcon Festival is celebrated every year in Tamenglong. This year 9th edition of Amur Falcon was held at the district.The event was organised by Tamenglong forest division in collaboration with district administration Tamenglong, Rainforest Club Tamenglong and Wildlife Trust of India.
Time of arrival of Amur Falcon in Tamenglong
Amur falcons come each year during the last week of October or first week of November to roost in Tamenglong, Manipur. The estimated number of falcons arriving at Tamenglong during peak period is 3,00,000.
Where can one spot Amur Falcon in Tamenglong?
There is a dedicated Tamenglong Amur Falcon View Point (Google map location). Besides, there are many isolated places in the area where you can spot Amur Falcon. In fact, the whole area near Assam-Manipur border is famous for the roosting site of Amur Falcon.
When is Falcon Festival 2024 at Tamenglong?
The Falcon Festival 2024 at was a single day event celebrated in November 21, 2024. The event bears special significance as this year (2024), two Amur falcons, Guangram and Chiuluan 2 – named after two villages where they roost, were satellite-tagged by a Wildlife Trust of India team for better monitoring.
How To Reach Tamenglong?
By Air
The nearest airport to Tamenglong is Imphal Airport, located about 150 km away.
•From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tamenglong.
•Travel time: Approximately 5-6 hours by road.
By Train
Tamenglong does not have a railway station. The nearest major railway stations are:
1.Dimapur Railway Station (in Nagaland): About 240 km away.
2.Jiribam Railway Station (in Manipur): Approximately 95 km away.
•From these stations, you can hire a cab or use public transport to reach Tamenglong.
By Road
Tamenglong is well-connected by road to other cities in Manipur and neighboring states.
•From Imphal: Regular buses and shared taxis operate from Imphal to Tamenglong.
•From Dimapur: Taxis and buses are available, though the journey involves hilly terrain.
The roads leading to Tamenglong offer scenic views, making the journey enjoyable despite its duration.
Also read about the mysterious place of Jatinga (Dima Hasao) : The Bermuda Triangle for birds
