Deep in Arunachal Pradesh’s forests, Glaw Lake has become the state's first site honored with Ramsar recognition, highlighting its vital role in sustaining a diverse ecosystem of rare plants and endangered wildlife.
- Glaw Lake is Arunachal’s first Ramsar Site, India’s 101st wetland honor
- Home to over 150 tree species and 49 orchids unique to Eastern Himalayas
- Habitat for endangered species including white-bellied heron and big cats
What happened
Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh has received the prestigious Ramsar Site designation, marking it as a wetland of international importance. Covering 82 hectares and situated at 1,168 meters elevation, Glaw is an ecologically rich freshwater lake nestled amid mountain forests. This status means a global commitment to protect and manage this unique wetland environment and its surrounding ecosystems.
The lake's water is fed by 12 perennial streams that connect it to the Kamlang river system, integrating it into a larger landscape of interconnected rivers and forests. This recognition also emphasizes the lake's broader environmental significance beyond its immediate shores, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remote Himalayan region.
Why it feels good
Glaw’s ecosystem supports an exceptional variety of life, including more than 150 species of trees and nearly 50 species of orchids, making it a precious hub for Eastern Himalayan plant diversity. The surrounding forests provide shelter to many animals such as elephants, flying squirrels, hoolock gibbons, and several wild cats including tigers and leopards, showcasing nature’s amazing complexity.
Particularly notable are the critically endangered white-bellied herons and several elusive species of reptiles and amphibians that play essential roles in the ecosystem’s food chain. The global recognition of Glaw Lake brings hope and motivation to conserve not only this lake but the entire living landscape it nurtures.
What to enjoy or watch next
Although Glaw Lake sits around 20 kilometers from the nearest town, Wakro, reaching it requires a challenging seven to eight-hour trek through rugged terrain, including mountain slopes, gorges, and forest streams. This journey remains a rare and rewarding adventure for those drawn to pristine nature and conservation stories.
Looking ahead, efforts to safeguard Glaw and its wider catchment will be key to maintaining the health of this ecosystem. As public awareness grows and protection measures strengthen, Glaw presents an inspiring example of how remote natural places can gain global attention and foster community pride.