Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, mainly famous for the one-horned rhinoceros it holds and exploring on an elephant safari. Whether planning your visit, researching the cost of the Kaziranga National Park elephant safari, searching for the best accommodation options, looking for Kaziranga National Park hotels, or getting information regarding jeep safaris and ticket prices is all present inside this guide. Find the best time to visit Kaziranga National Park, its wildlife, fantastic activities, and other travel tips to make your journey worthwhile.
Key Highlights:
- Located in Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath, and Nagaon districts, Assam, India.
- It is home to about two-thirds of the world’s rhino population, 2613 according to the year’s count of rhinos in 2018.
- A tiger reserve was announced in 2006 to protect tigers and other species.
- More than 37 species of mammals, 553 species of birds, 446 species of butterflies, 17turtles & tortoise and many reptiles and amphibians.
- Geography: Tall grasslands, marshes, tropical forests, and rivers such as the Brahmaputra.
- Ranges: Divided into five zones for effective management.
- Cultural Importance: In songs, books, and documentaries, it takes its place.
- Over 313,574 domestic and 13,919 international visitors visited during 2023–24.
- Kaziranga National Park tickets generated an entry fee collection of ₹3,84,47,618 during the financial year 2022–23.
Understanding the best time to visit Kaziranga National Park allows you to fully appreciate its wonder and cultural significance, adding a unique dimension to your journey.
History of Kaziranga National Park
- 1904: After A Visit to Kaziranga, Mary Curzon, A Wife to Lord Curzon, stated she could not see single-horned rhinoceros, which prompted her to advocate for them.
- 1905: The area of Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest nominated for status is 232 km².
- 1908: This was then extended by 152 km², thus adding another 59 sq. mi into the ambit of reserve forest category.
- 1916: Kaziranga Game Sanctuary got its name; the next year, hunting became restricted, and the sanctuary was opened for visitors.
- 1934: It used to be Kaziranha, while Kaziranga was one of its alternate names.
- 1950:D. Stracey named the area Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary to disassociate it from hunting.
- 1954: Heavy fines for poaching were levied under the Assam (Rhinoceros) Bill.
- 1968: Declared a national park under the Assam National Park Act.
- 1974: Formally notified as a national park in 11 February 1974., with an area of 430 km² by the central government (166 sq. miles).
- 1985: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its highly natural environment.
The Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park welcomes visitors between November and April annually; due to the monsoon season flooding risk from the Brahmaputra River, it remains closed from May 1 through October 31 every year. Here are what you can expect during different seasons:
- Summer (April to May): The dry and windy summer conditions create the perfect environment for spotting wildlife near water bodies, where they gather around these moisture sources for survival. It is an excellent opportunity to spot animals that come together around these hydration sources.
- Monsoon (June to September): The park usually receives 2220 mm of rain during the monsoon period. Thus, the weather becomes extremely hot and humid, and the park generally closes from May to October because of the probability of flooding.
- Winter (November to February): The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is in winter when the weather conditions are mild and dry for safari trips. Rhinos can be seen more easily due to the burning of grass, giving clear views over its terrain.
Season | Temperature | Rainfall | Suitable activities |
Summer | Up to 37°C (99°F) | Low | Budget-friendly travel, bird watching |
Monsoon | Varies | High | Not suitable for wildlife tours |
Winter | 25°C (77°F) during the day, 5°C (41°F) at night | Low | Wildlife tours, bird watching |
How to Visit Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is popularly located in northeastern India and is well connected with a good network of different travel routes. Visitors traveling to Kaziranga National Park also get an opportunity to observe the natural flora and fauna all around as nature-loving tourists pour into India here since it provides access to some of the more populated towns that fringe the northeast.
Visitor Information | Details |
Entry Fees | Varies based on nationality and type of safari |
Safari Options | Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari |
Safari Ranges | Kohora (Central Safari Zone), Bagori (Western Safari Zone), Agoratoli (Eastern Safari Zone), Burapahar (Ghorakati Safari Zone) |
Booking Safaris | Online in advance or at the park gate |
Accommodation | Hotels, Luxury Resorts, Guest Houses, Budget Lodges, Homestays |
Best Time to Visit | November to April |
Duration of Safari | Jeep: Approximately 2 hours | Elephant: Approximately 1 hour |
Visiting Duration | At least 2 days recommended for full exploration |
Park Stays | Not permitted inside the park |
Assam Tourism | Official resource for visitor information |
Kaziranga National Park Itinerary
Visiting Kaziranga National Park? Here’s a plan to make the most of it.
Day 1: Arrive at Kaziranga. Check into your chosen hotel or resort. Relax after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance. Assamese traditions come alive with vibrant dance and music. A perfect start to your adventure.
Day 2: Wake up early. Go out for the elephant safari. The one-horned rhino becomes the most impressive part of the experience. After breakfast, explore the nearby tea gardens. Lush fields and fragrant tea – it’s a cool experience. After lunch, a jeep safari is waiting. Another chance to see wildlife. Maybe a tiger if you’re lucky!
Day 3: Visit the nearby villages. Meet the local people. Experience their way of life, immense yourself in the local culture. Don’t miss the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park. A colourful and serene spot. Take in the beauty. By evening, it’s time to head back.
This Kaziranga National Park Itinerary? This mix of wildlife, culture, and relaxation makes your Kaziranga visit unforgettable. Simple, yet fulfilling.
Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park Distance
It is about 250 kilometers from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park via NH37. A scenic drive. Takes around 5 hours.
Start early. Watch the city fade, replaced by fields and hills. Whether driving or in a taxi, the journey feels calm. Stop for chai or just soak in the sights.
The Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park distance isn’t just about numbers. It’s a transition into nature’s magic, setting the tone for your adventure.
Routes to Reach Kaziranga National Park (Kohora)
Route | Starting Point | Destination | Transport by road | Distance | Duration |
Route 1 | LGBI Airport, Borjhar, Guwahati | Kohora, Kaziranga | NH37 | 250 Km | 5 hrs. |
Route 2 | Rowroya Airport, Jorhat | Kohora, Kaziranga | NH37 | 105 Km | 2 hrs. |
Route 3 | Guwahati Railway Station | Kohora, Kaziranga | NH37 | 210 Km | 4 hrs. |
Route 4 | Tezpur | Kohora, Kaziranga | NH37 | 90 Km | 2 hrs. |
How to Reach Kaziranga National Park
By Air (Kaziranga National Park Nearest Airport):Â Kaziranga National Park is easily accessible from various routes. Guwahati Airport, located about 220 km away, is the nearest primary gateway. Guwahati conveniently connects visitors from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Imphal and Jorhat. Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport.
A close alternative is Jorhat Airport, which is just 1.5 hours away by road from Kaziranga, the central tourist hub of Kohora. Flights to Jorhat mainly operate from Guwahati and Kolkata, which is another option.
Although Silchar and Dibrugarh are connected by air, they are more distant, challenging road trips that require additional planning.
By Train ( Kaziranga National Park nearest railway station): Guwahati is a major railway hub connected to significant parts of India. Kohora, the main centre point of Kaziranga, can be reached by Road from Guwahati.
Alternatively, a train from Guwahati or Dibrugarh to Jorhat reduces the road journey to about 1.5 hours.
By Road: (Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park Distance): The distance from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park is about 220 km. A journey takes 4–5 hours. Both Car or bus options are available. Traffic can stretch the travel time a little, especially during peak hours.
Kohora stands as the heart of tourism in Kaziranga. A bustling centre. It’s where visitors start their adventures in the park. Located along NH 37, this highway passes through the region like a lifeline.
NH 37 connects Kaziranga with Jorhat to the east and Guwahati to the west. From Guwahati, reaching Kaziranga is straightforward. This route is direct and has smooth roads for most parts. At the end of this scenic drive, Kohora welcomes travellers.
Kaziranga National Park Map
Kaziranga National Park is a landscape formed by nature and time. Its map indicates an extensive layout: grasslands, marshes, water bodies, and dense tropical forests. Together, they form a wildlife sanctuary. The one-horned rhinoceros is its proud symbol.
The boundary of Kaziranga National Park:
- The Kaziranga National Park is located in the districts of Golaghat, Nagaon, Biswanath, and Sonitpur in Assam.
- The Brahmaputra River lines its northern boundary. Flowing strong. Creating a natural wall.
- The southern boundary is naturally marked by the Karbi Anglong Hills.
- The riverbanks, marshlands, and smaller tributaries act as natural barriers to Kaziranga National Park, helping protect the park’s wildlife.
The Kaziranga National Park map tells a story of the protection and balance of life and wildlife.
Places to Visit in Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park, in fact, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers not only wildlife safari but also many notable attractions to visit in and around the park:
- Central Range (Kohora): Most popular among tourists, ideal for elephant and jeep safari. Rich in the wildlife viewing of rhinoceros, elephants, and tigers. Entry Point: Kohora Gate.
- Western Range (Bagori): Great density of rhinos and picturesque marshlands. Excellent for wildlife photography and birdwatching. Entry Point: Bagori Gate.
- Eastern Range (Agaratoli): A true birdwatching paradise with common resident and migratory birds. With sweeping views along the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River.
- Burapahar Range: This rugged area is perfect for trekking and wildlife exploration. It is popular for spotting hoolock gibbons, langurs, and elephants. Entry Point: Ghorakati.
- Panbari Reserve Forest: This is an ideal place for birdwatching. Hornbills and crested serpent eagles are commonly sighted. It is a less-explored place with dense forests and trekking trails.
- Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: A treat for nature lovers, over 500 orchids are native to Northeast India. Guests can relish the exhibition in a small museum, observe traditional Assamese dance performances, and visit medicinal plant gardens.
- Kakochang Waterfalls: These beautiful waterfalls are near Kaziranga National Park. They offer fantastic vantage points, ideal for a short trip after the safari.
- Brahmaputra River: Explore and discover the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River as it passes through the park. Birdwatching and nature walks are just a few activities and a splendid view of nature.
- Tea Gardens: Visit the lush tea gardens of Assam in and around the area. These gardens offer fantastic views of always-soothing tea plantations. They are good for leisurely walks and photography.
- Deoparbat Ruins: Where ancient archaeological ruins let one get a glimpse of the hidden historical artifacts and sculptures. This is a treat for history enthusiasts.
Kaziranga National Park Ticket Prices
The Kaziranga National Park ticket prices for all four ranges: 1. Central Range (Kohora), 2. Westem Range (Bagori), 3. Burapahar Ranger (Ghorakati), and 4. Eastern Range (Agaratoli), including timings and entry fees, are as follows.
Kaziranga National Park Timings and Entry Fee
- Trip 1: 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM
- Trip 2: 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Sl | Specific | Price Per | Indian Price (in ₹) | Foreign Price (in ₹) |
1 | Park entry fee per person per trip/day | Per Person | 100 | 650 |
2 | Fee for elephant seat per trip/day | Per Person | 750 | 1250 |
3 | Toll for road per trip/day | VEHICLE | 300 | 300 |
4 | Toll for river cruise per trip/day | VEHICLE | 1000 | 1000 |
5 | Still Camera | UNIT | 100 | 200 |
7 | Still Camera (Professional) | UNIT | 1000 | 3000 |
6 | Movie/Video Camera | UNIT | 1000 | 1000 |
8 | Movie/Video Camera Professional) | UNIT | 10000 | 30000 |
9 | Welfare Society fee per jeep per trip/day | VEHICLE | 100 | 100 |
10 | Welfare Society fee per seat per trip/day | Per Person | 50 | 50 |
11 | Feature film | DAY | 100000 | 200000 |
13 | Security Money for feature film | DAY | 100000 | 200000 |
12 | Documentary Film | DAY | 15000 | 75000 |
14 | Security Money for documentary film | DAY | 15000 | 75000 |
15 | Jeep hiring Fee | VEHICLE | 2200 | 2200 |
Kaziranga National Park Safari
Kaziranga National Park provides several jeep and elephant safaris that promote wildlife tourism in Assam. With such safaris, it opens for visitors exciting closeness with the phenomenal wildlife and breathtaking environments of the park. Whether you choose the thrilling jeep safari or the calmer elephant safari, Kaziranga ensures that you take back memories of an unrepeatable adventure through varied ecosystems and legendary wildlife.
Kaziranga National Park Safari Booking
To book a safari at Kaziranga National Park, visit the official portal at Kaziranga Safari Booking. You can choose between:
- Jeep Safari: Available in four zones, lasting about 2 hours.
- Elephant Safari: Available in the Central and Western zones, usually in the morning.
Booking Steps:
- Go to the official website.
- Select your safari type, zone, and date.
- Complete the payment.
Important Information:
- Entry Fee: ₹650 per person for foreigner and ₹100 per person for Indian.
- Safari Timings: Morning and evening for jeep safaris; morning for elephant safaris.
- Guides: Only registered guides are allowed.
- Cancellation: No cancellations or transfers once booked.
Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Kaziranga National Park Jeep Safari
Kaziranga National Park jeep safaris are ideal for visitors who want to experience broad park vistas and encounter diverse wildlife in an open environment. Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 2 pm to 3:30 pm, the two-hour Jeep safaris give more than enough time to witness everything the park offers regarding biodiversity and encounter its biodiversity first-hand.
Jeep safaris generally take place in designated Jeep safari zones such as Kohora (Central Zone), Bagori (Western Zone), and Agoratoli (Eastern Zone). In all three, visitors get to view the rhinoceros, the tiger, the elephant, the swamp deer, and also a good variety of bird species throughout the safari experience itself.
While ticket prices vary between ₹ 4000 and ₹ 5400 for Indian nationals, foreigners pay between ₹ 7700 and ₹ 9700. The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is from November to April, as the weather is pleasant and to see the animals are most probable.
Safari Type | Safari Timings | Safari Duration | Ticket Price (Indian) | Ticket Price (Foreigner) |
Jeep Safari | Morning: 7:30 am – 9:30 am Afternoon: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm |
2 hours | ₹ 4000 – ₹5400 | ₹ 7700 – ₹ 9700 |
Kaziranga National Park Elephant Safari
Kaziranga National Park Elephant Safari provides visitors with an intimate connection with nature. Operating each morning between 5:30 am to 6:30 am and 7:30 am (or in the afternoon from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm), visitors ride atop trained elephants accompanied by expert mahouts for one hour of exploration.
Elephant safaris generally occur in Kohora (Central Zone) and Bagori (Western Zone). These areas offer ideal conditions for sighting one-horned rhinoceroses, wild buffalo, hog deer, and sometimes even tigers amongst the park’s stunning grasslands and wetlands.
Kaziranga National Park Elephant Safari ticket price for Indian and foreign visitors is a fixed ₹1500. To maximize your experience, the best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is November to April, during the dry season when safaris are fully operational and wildlife sightings reach their maximum.
Safari Type |
Safari Timings | Safari Duration | Ticket Price (Indian) |
Ticket Price (Foreigner) |
Elephant Safari | Morning: 5:30 am – 6:30 am, 6:30 am – 7:30 am Afternoon: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm |
1 hour | ₹ 1500 | ₹ 1500 |
Boat Safari in Kaziranga National Park
A new activity for Tourists, Boat Safari at Bhomoraguri, Tezpur Range, Western Range, Nagshankar Route Bhomoraguri to Jia Bharali, is open for season 2024-25 from 1st October 2024 onwards. Entry Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is an excellent opportunity for tourists to spot the endangered Gangetic River Dolphins in Assam’s protected waters.
The boat safari point is around 30 km from the Burapahar range under the Nagaon Subdivision of Kaziranga National Park at Bhomoraguri. Visitors can enjoy the boat safari on country boats or even speed boats at the Bhomoraguri safari point provided by the forest authorities.
Visitors can choose from multiple boat routes, ranging from 5-12 km along the Brahmaputra River. The most popular route passes under the Koliabhumura Bridge, which is ideal for spotting endangered Gangetic River Dolphins. Longer routes extend to the Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, covering about 44 sq. km.
Besides the dolphins, the boat safari is indeed a wonderful experience to witness the water life of the Brahmaputra River of Assam, including:
- Aquatic birds like herons, cormorants, and kingfishers.
- Wetland vegetation, such as reeds and floating water plants.
- The vast Brahmaputra’s overall beauty is its strong currents and tranquil backwaters.
The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park with boat safaris is from November to April when they are operational during the tourist season, when the river levels are favourable, and the weather is pleasant.
Places to Stay in Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park has numerous options for accommodation like luxurious resorts, decently priced independent hostels, and guesthouses. Within these hotels, visitors can find a facility between comfort and nature during their stay at Kaziranga National Park Hotels, which has a hospitality influence on traditional Assamese culture. Here are some of the best Kaziranga National Park resorts:
Luxury Resorts in Kaziranga National Park
The rich must step away from the more modest, off-park resorts to enjoy those on-park luxuries. Such resorts are probably packed with great amenities and bright, vibrant green scenery in vision portraits, as well as matchless service. There are quite a number to visit on luxury Kaziranga National Park resorts-
- Borgos Resort:
Borgos Resort is a hotel in Kaziranga where luxury meets nature. Its spacious rooms, relaxing spa, and exquisite dining make it an ideal retreat. It is perfect for travelers who want to explore the park without compromising comfort.
- Iora – The Retreat:
It offers all kinds of contemporary luxuries blended with Assamese identity. Guests can enjoy swimming, wellness spa, and cultural performances apart from being located close to the entrance of the park, making it an excellent base for safaris and excursions. - Diphlu River Lodge:
This eco-lodge along the Diphlu River is quite popular with wildlife enthusiasts. It offers some lovely cottages overlooking the river, along with personalized services. Prince William and Kate Middleton stayed here when they visited Kaziranga, too.
Eco-Friendly Lodges and Camps
For the nature lover, these Kaziranga National Park hotels and camps offer an embrace of mother nature. All of these accommodations feature comforts but in a sustainable way.
- Nature Hunt Eco Camp: Stay in bamboo dwellings surrounded by greenery. It is a camp based on eco-tourism with interesting experiences such as bird watching and nature walks with a guide.
- Wild Grass Lodge: One of the prestigious eco-lodges in Kaziranga, Wild Grass possesses an old-world charm with its colonial ambiance. Because of the green landscape both inside and outside the property, Wild Grass has quickly become a favorite destination for birders and wildlife photographers.
Visit these links to discover the best deal, compare prices, read reviews, and check availability before booking.
Kaziranga National Park Guest House
Different rent categories, guesthouses, and inspection bungalows (IB) are available at Kaziranga National Park according to the guest’s kind and status. Here is a short snapshot:
- Heritage IB, Kohora (FLORICAN, HERON, MINIVET): Rents are in the ranges of ₹150 to ₹2400 as per the type (VVIP, VIP, General).
- Forest Guest House: Room Rent varies from ₹150 to ₹2400.
- Forest IB Bagori: Rooms available just under the same price structure from ₹150 to ₹1600.
- Dormitory (Kohora): per bed, 50.
- In addition, linen charges are applied.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the rents of different categories of rooms in different Kaziranga National Park guesthouses:
Rooms (Guest House/IB) |
Forest Officials | Other Govt. Officials (On duty) | Other Govt. Officials (Not on duty) | Others | Students |
Heritage IB Kohora | |||||
FLORICAN (VVIP) | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 2,400 | |
HERON (VIP) | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | |
MINIVET (General) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Forest Guest House | |||||
7 (VVIP) | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 2,400 | |
6 (VIP) | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | |
1-5 (General) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Forest IB Bagori | |||||
AMLOKHI (VIP) | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | |
HILIKHA (VIP) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
BHOMORA (General) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Rhino Land Park, Ghorakati | |||||
VIP | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | ₹ 200 |
Transit Camp (Bagori) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Dormitory (Kohora) | Per Bed | ₹ 50 | ₹ 100 | ₹ 100 | ₹ 50 |
Dhania IB, Burachapori WLS | |||||
ROOM NO. I & II (VIP) | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | ₹ 150 |
Singimari IB, Laokhowa WLS | |||||
VIP | ₹ 200 | ₹ 400 | ₹ 800 | ₹ 1,600 | ₹ 150 |
GENERAL | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Bhumuraguri IB | |||||
GENERAL (2) | ₹ 150 | ₹ 300 | ₹ 600 | ₹ 1,200 | ₹ 150 |
Additional Charges:
- Linen Charges: ₹200 per day for VVIP/VIP & General Rooms, ₹100 per day for transit accommodation, and ₹50 per bed in dormitories.
- Entry Fee: An additional entry fee per person per day as per applicable rates for entry to the Protected Areas.
For more details on accommodation and booking, visit the official website.
Flora and Fauna of Kaziranga National Park
1. Flora of Kaziranga National Park
The Brahmaputra River’s water cycle system helps give rise to some fantastic processes of the river and fluvial landforms. It is characterized by vast, shallow ponds scattered all over-endowed with wet alluvial tall grasslands. Reeds often fringe these ponds, separating patches of deciduous to semi-evergreen woodlands from one another.
Vegetation in the park is classified into the following categories that represent different ecosystems:
- Tall Grasslands (41%): Heavily infested with elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum), where most herbivores are found, e.g., rhinos and wild buffaloes.
- Short Grasslands (11%): Composed of numerous grasses; these grasslands support some minor herbivores while offering habitats for various bird species.
- Open Jungle (29%): Mixed deciduous trees like sal (Shorea robusta) and teak (Tectona grandis) are found in these forests, as they are pretty common mammals and birds living in their cover.
- Rivers and Water Bodies (8%): The Brahmaputra and its tributaries create wetlands full of aquatic plants such as water lilies and water hyacinths and are used by many different kinds of aquatic organisms.
- Swamps (4%): They provide essential habitat for species like eastern swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii), preferring the setup of wetlands.
2.Fauna of Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is known for its one-horned rhinoceros. It is also home to many reptiles, such as the endangered gharial and the rare Assam roofed turtle. You can see three big cats: the Golden Tiger, the Indian Leopard, and the Clouded Leopard. There are also primates like Bengal slow loris and Assamese macaque. Here is a basic description of its wildlife:
- One-horned rhinoceros: As of 2022, there are 2,613 one-horned rhinos in Kaziranga. It consists of 1,641 adults and 385 calves, the largest population worldwide.
- Royal Bengal Tiger: As of 2022, the tiger population in the Kaziranga National Park is 124.
- Wild Water Buffalo: There are about 1,937 wild water buffalo in the park as of 2008. That’s about 57% of the world’s total population.
- Eastern Swamp Deer: As of 2022, there are 868 eastern swamp deer in the park. They live mainly in its wetlands.
- Indian Elephants: In 2017, there were about 1,089 Indian elephants in the park’s grasslands and forests.
- Reptiles: Kaziranga is home to various reptiles. This includes the Indian rock python and the king cobra.
3. Kaziranga National Park Golden Tiger
On December 24, 2024, a golden tiger cub, along with its mother and two siblings, was seen by visitors at the Kohora range of the Kaziranga National Park.
These golden tigers are characterized by pale golden fur with dark red-brown stripes that result from a genetic mutation that leads to less melanin in it, and this unique appearance is neither a deformity nor an anomaly; instead, it is one of the natural morphological variances.
Kaziranga National Park is the sole documented habitat where one can find golden tigers in the Indian subcontinent. A golden tiger was also sighted in the park in January 2024. This new cub is thought to belong to the previous tiger. This rare type of tiger adds value to the park, increasing the potential for wildlife tourism in an area.
4. Kaziranga National Park Birds
With over 490 recorded species, Kaziranga National Park birds include everything from rare waterfowl to forest dwellers, both migratory and resident birds, many of which are globally threatened. The Panbari and Kukurakata Reserve Forests lie just outside the park, in small but significant areas for many forest bird species, including in the Important Bird Area (IBA).
The wetlands and riverine areas of the park are home to over 20,000 waterbirds, including globally significant populations of species like the Bar-headed Goose, further highlighting the importance of Kaziranga National Park Birds in global biodiversity.
Key Avifauna:
Kaziranga hosts 490 bird species (Choudhury, 2003), including 24 globally threatened and 14 near-threatened species. Of these, 197 are residents, 165 are migrants, and 46 are local migrants.
Notable Resident Birds
- Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis)
- Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus)
- Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) – With approximately 30 species, Kaziranga supports one of this critically endangered Bengal Florican bird’s largest and most secure populations.
- Swamp Francolin (Francolinus gularis)
- Pallas’s Fish-Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus)
Significant Migratory Birds
- Bar-headed Goose (Anser indicus) – Kaziranga provides winter refuge to 2,000–3,000 individuals, accounting for 4–5% of the global population.
- Winter Visitors: Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis), Chestnut-headed Tesia (Tesia castaneocoronata), and others.
Grassland Specialists
Kaziranga’s tall, wet grasslands are a haven for unique bird species, including:
- Bristled Grass-Warbler (Chaetornis striatus)
- Black-breasted Parrotbill (Paradoxornis flavirostris)
- Finn’s Weaver (Ploceus megarhynchus)
The Kaziranga National Park Birds, like critically endangered Bengal Floricans, find one of their last strongholds here. Additionally, the park is home to large nesting colonies of Spot-billed Pelicans and Adjutants.
Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park
Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park lies very next to the Central Range of Kaziranga National Park at Durgapur village. It is the most important conservation and culture center in the region spread over an area of approximately 6 acres, which is the largest orchid park in Northeast India.
It has more than 500 species of orchids, most of which are found naturally in this region of northeastern India. It has around 200 varieties of paddy, medicinal plants, and assorted different local flowers and fruits available in the region.
Exciting and Interesting:
- Green House: It is a special house for breeding and exhibiting different species of orchids.
- Photo Gallery: Pictures of 500 different orchid species are put on display.
- Medicinal Herbal Plant Garden: Plants possessing medicinal qualities and more related to the traditional knowledge of the region are highlighted here.
- Fruit Garden: A collection of most local fruits exemplifies the agricultural diversity and gives an insight into the particular horticulture.
- Rock Garden: Area made with natural boulders, that exist beautifies the park more.
- Rice Museum: Important information on rice cultivation and its importance in the local context.
- Cultural Performances: Visitors can experience traditional Assamese dance and music, enriching their cultural understanding.
Visitor’s Info:
- Location: Almost 2 km to the east of the Central Range of Kaziranga, Kohora Chariali.
- Opening Hours: Served usually from 8 am to 5 pm every day. Do confirm the latest timings before your visit.
- Entry Ticket: The fees can differ, so better confirm the ongoing rates at the time of your arrival.
Conclusion
Visiting Kaziranga National Park is an amazing chance to see many different animals. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many animals, including the world’s most rhinos.
The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park falls between November and April when the weather is relatively dry. Rhinos and several species of birds can be viewed throughout the year; however, these months are the best of all since wild animals can be sighted more easily than at any other time.
If you intend to maximize your travelling experience here, you must plan well and travel with an environmentally conscious approach. Check for Kaziranga National Park tickets, stay at eco-friendly Kaziranga National Park resorts and buy handicrafts made by local artisans to encourage the locals.
You can visit a Kaziranga National Park Elephant Safari, a Jeep Safari, or boat rides. So, pack your bags and prepare to explore an unforgettable journey to Kaziranga National Park, where the wonders of nature await.
FAQ
What is Kaziranga National Park famous for?
Kaziranga National Park is famous for the largest population of one-horned rhinoceros, totalling 2,613, which hosts two-thirds of the world’s rhinoceros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an Important Bird Area.
Which city is closest to Kaziranga National Park?
The closest city to Kaziranga National Park is Golaghat. However, Guwahati Airport, located about 220 km away, is the nearest primary gateway. Guwahati conveniently connects visitors from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Imphal and Jorhat. Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport.
What are the 4 tiger reserves in Assam?
The four tiger reserves in Assam are: 1. Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, known for its biodiversity and rhinos; 2. Manas Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve; 3. Nameri Tiger Reserve has lush forests and riverine habitats; and 4. Orang Tiger Reserve is often called the “Mini Kaziranga” for its diverse wildlife.
Why Kaziranga is a World Heritage Site?
Kaziranga National Park was recognised as a World Heritage List in 1985 for its vast one-horned rhino population, Eastern Swamp Deer, tigers, Wild Buffalo, elephants and a variety of birds, and its representation of the Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem undisturbed by a human presence.
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