Kaziranga National Park | Wild Safaris India

Kaziranga National Park – A Comprehensive Guide

About - Kaziranga National Park

Located in the Northeast Indian state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Spread across 430 sq. km, Kaziranga is renowned for hosting the largest population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

Established in 1905 as a reserve forest and declared a national park in 1974, Kaziranga is also home to tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer, forming a part of the “Big Five” species. Its diverse terrain of wetlands, grasslands, and tropical forests provides a unique habitat for both flora and fauna.

Kaziranga is also recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA), making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Geographical Details

Altitude: 40m to 80m above sea level
Coordinates: 26°30’ N to 26°45’ N
Rainfall: 2,220 mm annually
Temperature:
- Winter: 5°C (Min)
- Summer: 37°C (Max)

How to Reach Kaziranga National Park

By Flight

The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport (97 km). Other nearby airports include:

Rowriah Airport, Jorhat: 97 km (2-hour drive)
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati: 217 km (5-hour drive).

By Train

The nearest railway station is Furkating Railway Station (75 km), well-connected to major cities in Assam.

By Road

Kaziranga is accessible via road:

Guwahati: 217 km (5-hour drive)
Jorhat: 97 km (2-hour drive)
Tezpur: 75 km (1.5-hour drive)

Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park

Winter (November – February): Ideal for safaris and birdwatching, with pleasant weather.
Summer (March – May): Best for spotting rhinos, tigers, and other animals near water bodies.
Monsoon (June – October): The park remains closed due to floods.

Wildlife at Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga is home to a variety of wildlife species, including:

Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros: The park’s flagship species, with over 2,400 individuals.
Royal Bengal Tiger: Kaziranga is a declared Tiger Reserve.
Asian Elephant: Found in herds across the park.
Wild Water Buffalo: A globally endangered species.
Swamp Deer: Also known as Barasingha, found in the park’s grasslands.

Bird species include:

Greater Adjutant Stork
Pallas’s Fish Eagle
Bengal Florican

Reptiles include king cobras, pythons, and monitor lizards.

Best Places to Visit Inside and Near Kaziranga National Park

Central Range (Kohora)
- The most popular range, known for rhino and tiger sightings.
Western Range (Bagori)
- Ideal for elephant and buffalo sightings.
Eastern Range (Agaratoli)
- A serene area known for birdwatching and scenic beauty.
Burapahar Range (Ghorakati)
- A less-explored range, perfect for trekking and photography.
Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park (2 km)
- A botanical garden showcasing the region’s rich floral diversity.
Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary (90 km)
- A nearby sanctuary famous for its hoolock gibbons.
Majuli Island (150 km)
- The world’s largest river island, known for its culture and scenic views.

Types of Safaris in Kaziranga National Park

Jeep Safari
- Description: Private or shared Jeep Safaris for close encounters with wildlife.
- Timings:
  - Morning: 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM
  - Evening: 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
- Capacity: 6 visitors per Jeep.
Elephant Safari
- Description: Explore the park on the back of an elephant, ideal for rhino sightings.
- Timings: Morning safaris only.
Boat Safari
- Description: Explore the Brahmaputra River to spot aquatic birds and river dolphins.

Safari Zones in Kaziranga National Park

The park is divided into five main zones:

Central Range (Kohora): The most visited area, ideal for spotting rhinos and tigers.
Western Range (Bagori): Known for its large elephant herds.
Eastern Range (Agaratoli): A birdwatcher’s paradise.
Burapahar Range (Ghorakati): Perfect for trekking and scenic views.
Panbari Reserve Forest: Ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.