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Our Conservation Story
The Chug Community Conserved Area (CCA) represents a watershed moment in conservation history. Spanning 92.5 square kilometers across elevations from 1,700m to 5,000m above sea level, Chug Valley has been transformed into a living laboratory of community-led biodiversity protection.
In a historic decision, the people of Chug Valley—with the support of their panchayat members and the expertise of WWF-India—declared their ancestral forests as a Community Conserved Area. This wasn't imposed from above; it was a collective commitment rooted in centuries-old Monpa traditions of forest stewardship and spiritual reverence for wildlife.
“Animals like the Red panda, Takin, Musk deer, and Asiatic black bear need to be conserved to ensure their habitats are protected. Conservation of these rich forests brings good luck, health, and happiness to our people.” — Tsering Khandu, Village Headman, Chug
What We Protect
Conservation Framework
Strict Regulations: Wildlife hunting is banned. Commercial extraction of timber, firewood, and medicinal plants is strictly managed. The community conducts regular patrolling and wildlife surveys to monitor forest health.
92.5
sq km Protected
18
Mammal Species
21
sq km Bird Species
350+
sq km Connected Habitat
Endemic & Endangered Species
Red Panda
Vulnerable | High Priority
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Himalayan Musk Deer
Vulnerable | Declining Population
Takin
Rare | Endemic to Region
Asiatic Black Bear
Vulnerable | Protected
Black-Necked Crane (Migratory)
Wintering Habitat | Sacred to Buddhism
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Himalayan Monal Pheasant
Near Threatened | Beautiful Plumage
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Forest Ecosystem
Temperate Zone (1,700–2,500m)
Mixed forests with oak, maple, and rhododendron, providing critical habitat for smaller mammals and birds. This zone experiences moderate rainfall and supports a diverse understory.
Sub-Alpine Zone (2,500–4,000m)
Silver fir (Abies) and birch forests create a pristine landscape. This is prime habitat for red pandas, musk deer, and numerous bird species including the Himalayan Monal.
Alpine Zone (4,000–5,000m)
High-altitude meadows and sparse vegetation. Home to takin herds and migratory birds. Critical for seasonal wildlife movements and ecological connectivity.
Connected Habitat Network
Chug CCA is part of a larger conservation landscape spanning 350+ square kilometers. It connects seamlessly with:
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Sangti Valley CCA — adjacent conservation area with overlapping habitat
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Nyukmadung CCA — extends the protective corridor
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Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary — part of the broader Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot
This contiguous network ensures wildlife has safe passage for migration and gene flow, strengthening populations of all species.
Conservation Journey
2019
WWF-India begins collaboration with Chug community. Initial biodiversity surveys commence with camera traps and field studies.
2019–2020
Community identifies 18 mammal species, 21 bird species, and diverse butterfly populations. Solar-powered electric fencing installed to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
2020–2021
Formal declaration of Chug as a Community Conserved Area. Management committee formed with representatives from all village panchayats. Community protection squads begin regular forest patrols.
2021 Onwards
Implementation of CCA Management Plan. Integration of community-based tourism (Damu's Heritage Dine, heritage home stays). Livelihoods linked to conservation success. Ongoing scientific monitoring and adaptive management.
2025
Duhumbi Heritage Fair celebrates 15+ years of conservation success. Chug CCA recognized as a model for community-led conservation across the Eastern Himalayas.
Conservation Through Tourism
Conservation thrives when communities benefit from protecting nature. In Chug, tourism is a conservation incentive:
Damu's Heritage Dine
Women-led heritage restaurant celebrating local biodiversity through traditional Monpa cuisine featuring foraged ingredients. Generates income while promoting forest products.
Heritage Home Stays
Restored traditional Monpa architecture preserves cultural heritage while offering community-based accommodations. Visitors contribute directly to local economies.
Guided Forest Walks
Expert local guides lead nature walks, birding expeditions, and cultural tours. Visitors learn about forest ecology, wildlife, and Monpa traditions firsthand.
How You Can Help
Visit Responsibly
Book guided tours with our CCA-certified guides. Your entrance fees directly support forest patrols, wildlife monitoring, and community livelihoods.
Experience Heritage Tourism
Dine at Damu's Heritage Dine and stay in heritage homestays. Every meal and night supports local families and incentivizes forest conservation.
Guided Forest Walks
Expert local guides lead nature walks, birding expeditions, and cultural tours. Visitors learn about forest ecology, wildlife, and Monpa traditions firsthand.
Spread Awareness
Share Chug's conservation story. Tell friends about this remarkable model of community-led conservation that protects endangered species while supporting livelihoods.
Join the Conservation Movement
Experience pristine Himalayan forests, meet the Monpa community, and discover why Chug Valley is a beacon of sustainable conservation.
Our Partners
WWF-India — Scientific expertise, biodiversity surveys, livelihood development support
Local Chug Panchayat — Community leadership, forest patrols, sustainable resource management
Department of Science & Technology, Government of India — Policy framework and institutional support
For more information about conservation activities, guided tours, or the Duhumbi Heritage Fair, please contact us.