KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, India, is a haven for nature lovers. Home to two-thirds of the world's one-horned rhinoceroses, it offers a unique wildlife experience. It is home to lush greenery, diverse fauna, tigers, elephants, and water buffaloes, and vibrant birdlife. Kaziranga promises adventure and close encounters with nature's wonders.

Highlights:

• Discover the mighty one-horned rhinoceros in their natural habitat at Kaziranga.
• Embark on an elephant safari for an up-close encounter with the park's wildlife.
• Witness the grandeur of Kaziranga's diverse bird species on a serene boat cruise.
• Feel the thrill of spotting tigers during a guided jeep safari adventure.
• Marvel at the vast, lush grasslands and dense forests that make up Kaziranga's landscape.

Kaziranga National Park, located in Assam is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It spreads across the districts of Golaghat and Nagaon and is set against the mighty Brahmaputra River. The park is famous for sheltering the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros in the world. Established in the early 20th century, it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a vibrant mosaic of dense forests, tall elephant grass, and numerous water bodies, creating a unique habitat for diverse wildlife.

Apart from the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga is home to several other endangered species. This includes tigers, elephants, and wild water buffaloes. The park's rich biodiversity extends to avian life, making it a fantastic spot for bird watching. It is here where you can witness birds like the greater adjutant stork and the black-necked stork seen here.

Visitors can explore Kaziranga through thrilling jeep safaris or serene elephant rides, offering close encounters with the park's majestic animals amidst its breathtaking landscapes. The park is also committed to the conservation of the rhinos and other animals. Its role in the successful preservation of numerous species showcases the balance between human intervention and nature's resilience. Kaziranga is known for its remarkable natural beauty and conservation success stories. Today, it stands as a testament to the wonders of nature and the importance of its preservation.

Points Of Interest

• Embark on an Early Morning Elephant Safari: Start your day with an unforgettable elephant safari. As you gently sway on the back of these majestic creatures, you will find yourself amid Kaziranga's thick forests and tall grasses just as the park awakes. This is your chance to get close to the park's famous one-horned rhinoceroses in a peaceful, natural setting. The cool morning air with the sight of mist lifting off the grasslands, provides a serene start to your adventure in the wild. The elephants, trained and gentle, offer a stable platform to view wildlife from a safe, elevated perspective. This early morning journey also presents the unique opportunity to witness the awakening of the jungle. The first rays of the sun light up the landscape in golden hues.
• Explore the Park on a Jeep Safari Adventure: A Jeep Safari in Kaziranga is a thrilling ride through the diverse ecosystems of the park. From dense forests to wetlands, each turn brings a discovery. During the safari, you may witness a herd of wild buffalo, elephants, or even the elusive tiger. With the wind in your hair and the rumble of the jeep under you, keep your cameras ready for those sudden wildlife appearances. The experienced guides know just where to take you for those once-in-a-lifetime sightings. Jeeps are specially modified for rugged terrain and offer an unobstructed view of the surroundings. This mode of safari allows you to cover a larger area of the park, increasing your chances of encountering a wide array of wildlife.
• Go on a Bird-Watching Expedition: Kaziranga, an Important Bird Area, is a paradise for bird lovers. Equip yourself with a pair of binoculars and set off on a bird-watching expedition to witness a mesmerizing variety of avian species. From the vibrant kingfishers and hornbills to the majestic pelicans and storks, each bird adds a splash of colour and melody to the park’s ambience. Walking quietly along the paths, you will be surrounded by the symphony of chirps and calls, making it a peaceful retreat into nature. The diverse habitats within Kaziranga, from water bodies to woodlands, support an incredible variety of birdlife. This also includes several rare and endangered species, like red-headed vulture, Eurasian black vulture, black-breasted parrotbill, black-necked stork, etc.
• Enjoy a Boat Safari on the Brahmaputra: Glide across the waters of the mighty Brahmaputra on a boat safari, an experience that adds a unique perspective to your Kaziranga visit. As you navigate through the river, look out for the endangered Gangetic dolphins surfacing around you. The riverbanks, rich in foliage, are also a great spot to observe birds and animals coming for a drink. The calm waters reflecting the sky at sunset create a perfect backdrop for photographers and nature lovers alike. These safaris are conducted on safe, motorized boats and offer a tranquil experience as you drift along the river. They provide a different vantage point to observe the park's lush landscapes and its inhabitants.
• Visit the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Just outside the national park, this orchid park houses an astonishing array of orchid species. It is here where you can see the rich floral diversity of Assam. Walking through the greenhouses, you will be treated to vibrant colours and exotic fragrances. The park also offers cultural shows, displaying the heritage of Assam through dance and music. It is a wonderful way to complement your wild adventures with a taste of local culture and biodiversity. The park is a repository of rare and endemic orchid species and plays a crucial role in their conservation. It serves as an educational resource, offering insights into the ecological significance of these plants and their role in the ecosystem.

How To Reach

• By Bus: Regular bus services are available from Guwahati, Tezpur, and Jorhat to Kaziranga. The buses range from government-run services to private operators, offering various levels of comfort.
• By Car: Hiring a taxi or driving a personal vehicle offers flexibility and comfort. The journey from Guwahati takes around 4 to 5 hours via NH27. From Tezpur, it is a shorter drive of about 2 hours (approximately 62.8 kilometres).

Best Time To Visit

Kaziranga National Park is great for a visit whenever you want. It offers unique experiences every month.

• Best Season: The prime time for a visit is between November and April. The park remains closed between May and October due to the monsoon season. However, from November to April, the weather here is pleasant. The park is also accessible during this time. This is when you can enjoy the best wildlife viewing opportunities as the dense vegetation recedes.
• Best Day: Weekdays offer a more serene experience. With fewer visitors, you have a better chance of unhurried wildlife sightings and less crowded safari tours.
• Best Time of the Day: Mornings in Kaziranga are the best time for a visit. The park gates open at 07:30 a.m. This is when you can witness the awakening of the jungle and its inhabitants in the soft, early light. The morning hours also increase the chances of spotting animals in their most active state.

Other Essential Information

• Secure your entry permits early to ensure access to the park.
• Opt for earth-toned clothing to blend into the natural surroundings.
• Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with a good pair of binoculars.
• Maintain quiet around wildlife to avoid startling them.
• Adhere to the park's speed limit of 20 km/hr to ensure everyone's safety.
• Refrain from feeding the animals to preserve their natural feeding habits.
• Keep to designated paths for your safety and the protection of the park.
• Promptly report any observed wildlife distress or fire hazards to park authorities.
• Choose bio-degradable items and dispose of waste responsibly at park entrances.
• Follow your guide's advice closely for a respectful and secure wildlife encounter.