Day 25: Bomdila to Potasali Eco Camp

Having checked out of Bomdila, we set off on our journey to Potasali (Assam), only to find out that yet another strike was taking place in Assam, so all major roads were closed in Assam were closed until 5pm. That gave us some extra time to stop off at Sessa Orchid Sanctuary where a very friendly and enthusiastic old forest ranger led us into this hidden tropical forest off the main road. It reminded me immediately of the rainforests of South America - full of lush greenery, towering trees, flowing streams and the sound of birds and other wildlife. We were called back after venturing too far, as apparently leopards and tigers prowl the area!

We reached Bhalukpong at around 12pm and waited around for a further 3 hours until a police vehicle escorted us and a convoy of other vehicles into Assam. After 20km we turned off for Potasali Eco Camp, and immediately we were struck by the character of the place. Our accommodation was one of eleven tented bamboo structures furnished with sturdy low-lying bamboo beds and an ensuite bathroom. As it was approaching sunset, we wandered into the nearby fields where we saw local villagers herding their cows as the sky turned a crimson red followed by a fading pink.

Ronny, a local Assamese guy, runs this place and came across as a very charasmatic and knowledgable person loaded with all kinds of helpful information about the area and how best we can organise our tours. We had a fabulous dinner and some beers in the outdoor dining area, where we stared in amazement/disbelief at a group of dedicated birdwatchers flocked around a table comparing notes on the birds they had spotted that day. We ended the night by the bonfire, contemplating the adventure tomorrow holds when we go for a 6am jungle walk followed by rafting and lunch with the boatmen.

- Rahul