Kaziranga National Park, located between Golaghat and Nagaon Districts in Assam, spans 430 sqkm along the Brahmaputra River. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1974, it’s renowned for housing the largest population of the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park, established in 1905, boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the activities and attractions that make Kaziranga a must-visit destination.
See also: Assam Tourist Places That Will Leave You In Awe
Â
Location advantages
- Oldest park in Assam.
- Positioned in the Kaliabor and Bokakhat subdivisions of Nagaon and Golaghat districts.
- Latitude: 26°30 N to 26°45 N; Longitude: 93°08 E to 93°36 E.
- Surrounded by the Brahmaputra River and Mora Diphlu.
- Home to 2/3rd of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros population.
- It boasts over 35 mammal species, including tigers, elephants, and gibbons.
- It is home to approximately 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006 and is recognised as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International.
- There are three major vegetation types: alluvial inundated grasslands, tropical wet evergreen forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
- Notable trees: Kumbhi, Indian gooseberry, cotton tree, and elephant apple.
- Vegetation coverage includes tall elephant grasses (41%), short grasses (11%), and open jungle (29%).
- Open from November to April, offering opportunities for elephant and boat safaris.
- Address: Kanchanjuri, Assam, 784177
 Â
How to reach Kaziranga National Park?
By air
Jorhat Airport (96 km) and Tezpur Airport (59.9 km) are the nearest airports.
By rail
Furkating Junction railway station, a two-hour drive away, is the closest railhead.
By road
Well-maintained roads connect Kaziranga to major cities. Regular buses, taxis, and private vehicles are available from Guwahati (240 km) and Jorhat.
Key facts
- Area: 1,090 km2
- Established: 1905 as a reserve forest, 1974 as a national park
- State: Assam
- Terrain: alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests
- Average elevation: 40 m (131 ft) to 80 m (262 ft)
- Major rivers: Brahmaputra
- Wildlife: one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, panthers, and bears
- Birdlife: over 500 species, including the great Indian hornbill, Bengal florican, and various eagles and waterfowl.
- Best season to visit: November to April
- Safari timings: morning (8:00 a.m.–10 a.m.), afternoon (2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.)
- Entry fee: ₹ 100 per head
- Nearest railway station: Furkating Junction
- Nearest airports: Jorhat Airport and Tezpur Airport
Things to explore in Kaziranga National Park
In addition to the well-known rhinoceros, Kaziranga Park is a naturalist’s paradise with a wide range of activities and sights. The top activities are listed below:
Bird-watching in Kaziranga
Duration: 1-2 hours
Best Time: November to April
Kaziranga National Park is a haven for bird-watching enthusiasts. With over 500 bird species, it offers a unique opportunity to witness diverse avian life. Visitors can also explore wetland areas, beels (oxbow lakes), and the Brahmaputra River for waterbirds.
Jeep safari in Kaziranga
Duration: 2-3 hours
Embark on a thrilling jeep safari covering the Western Range, Central Range, and Eastern Range of the park. Forest officials designate tourist routes, providing a chance to witness the rich natural heritage and diverse wildlife.
Elephant safari in Kaziranga
Duration: 2 hours
For a closer look at exotic nature, indulge in an elephant safari, the most popular activity in Kaziranga. It offers a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna and is favourite among wildlife enthusiasts.
National Orchid Park
Duration: 3–4 hours
Visit the largest orchid park in India, located 2 km from the central range of Kaziranga. Spanning 6 acres, the park boasts 500 varieties of wild orchids, along with other plant species. It adds to the natural charm of Kaziranga.
Panbari Reserve ForestÂ
Duration: 4–5 hours
Explore the nearby Panbari reserve Forest, situated in Golaghat. Home to exotic birds like the Crested Goshawk and the Great Indian Hornbill, the reserve remains largely unexplored, providing a serene escape.
Orang National Park
Duration: Half day
Known as the mini Kaziranga, this park, located 100 km away, features wildlife such as one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants, and diverse bird species.
The Tea Gardens of Kaziranga
Duration: 8 hours
Experience the tea gardens surrounding Kaziranga, such as Hathkhuli, Borchapori, and others. These gardens, renowned for their unique tea, offer picturesque views and a chance to stay amidst lush greenery.
Kakochang Waterfalls, Bokakhat
Duration: 3–4 hours
Visit Kakochang Waterfalls, located about an hour’s drive from Kaziranga. Surrounded by lush greens and offering scenic views, it is a popular picnic spot.
Â
Nearby attractions
Kamakhya Temple
Duration: 2 hours.
Explore the Mahavidyas Bhuvaneshwari Shrine at this ancient temple located 4 hours from Kaziranga. This temple on Nilachal Hill showcases mediaeval Ahom architecture.
Cinnamora Tea Estate
Duration: 8 hours.
A 3-hour drive from Kaziranga, this estate allows you to sample freshly brewed tea amid lush landscapes.
Majuli
Duration: Half day
The largest river island globally, a 4-hour drive from Kaziranga, offers a unique island experience. Visit temples, explore local literature at Kalambari Satra, and enjoy a picnic at Tenpagania.
Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
A special zone in Kaziranga for conserving Hoolock Gibbons is located 3 km away. The sanctuary showcases the dominance of Hoollong trees.
Â
Where to stay around Kaziranga?
Resort Borgos
Address: Kaziranga National Park, No.2 Sildubi, Kohora, Assam – 785609
Located in Sildubi Gaon village, it offers a luxurious stay surrounded by lush greenery.
Summit Green Village Resort & Spa
Address: H29V+FWW, Assam Trunk Rd Deusur Sang, Jakhalabandha, Assam – 782136
An authentic Assamese retreat with a jungle theme, situated on the main highway of Jakhalabandha.
Mandu The Escape
Address: 1 No Bogorijuri Area Near Karbi Ethnic Village P O Kaziranga National Park, Kohora, Assam – 785609
A nature retreat spread over 50 acres, offering premium cottages and luxury tents.
Landmark Wood
Address: NH 37, Kanchanjurie, Kaziranga, Kaziranga, Assam – 782136
A cosy homestay in Kaziranga, covering over 15 acres with well-furnished rooms, a swimming pool, and conference facilities.
Â
Real estate around Kaziranga Park
Kaziranga Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary in Assam, India, lacks a significant real estate factor. Strict conservation measures limit residential and commercial development within the park to preserve its natural habitat. The focus is on maintaining ecological balance and safeguarding the diverse flora and fauna.
Residential property around Kaziranga Park
Kaziranga Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary in Assam, India, does not have a significant residential factor due to its protected status. The park primarily serves as a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, and human habitation is restricted to the park’s periphery. The focus is on conservation, limiting residential development to ensure minimal disruption to the park’s ecological balance.
Commercial property around Kaziranga Park
Commercial activities within Kaziranga Park are strictly regulated to preserve its natural ecosystem. Commercial properties are emerging, driven by the tourism industry’s growth. Investments in hospitality and services are notable. Ecotourism contributes to the local economy, and commercial ventures such as hotels and restaurants are controlled to prevent excessive environmental impact. The park’s management emphasises sustainable practices, balancing economic benefits with the imperative to safeguard the unique biodiversity of Kaziranga.
Â
Price range of properties
Panigaon, Nagaon
Avg. price/sqft: Rs 3,600
Price range/sqft: Rs 3,600
Palashani, Nagaon
Avg. price/sqft: Rs 3,800
Price range/sqft: Rs 3,800
Source:Â https://housing.com/price-trends/property-rates-for-buy-in-panigaon_nagaon-P4a2yr2zvzq7a3myo
https://housing.com/price-trends/property-rates-for-buy-in-palashani_nagaon-P45s2mr4b2k7htu7x
FAQs
Why is Kaziranga National Park famous?
Known for its diverse wildlife, Kaziranga is renowned for having the largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
Which is the best mode of transportation to reach Kaziranga from Guwahati?
Private taxis and North East tour packages are available, offering a convenient and scenic drive.
Which is the nearest railway station to Kaziranga?
Furkating Junction railway station is approximately a two-hour drive away.
What are the safari options available in Kaziranga?
Kaziranga offers jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and boat rides in the Brahmaputra Marshes.
Can I book safaris in advance?
Yes, safari bookings can be made in advance through the official park authorities.
Are there residential options available near Kaziranga?
Yes, the region offers residential options that blend with the natural surroundings.
Can I find budget-friendly stay options near Kaziranga?
Yes, there are budget-friendly stay-homes and dormitories available, providing various options for tourists.
Is there a park entrance fee?
Yes, visitors need to pay an entrance fee for safaris and park access.
Why was Kaziranga National Park declared a World Heritage Site?
Recognised in 1985, UNESCO designated Kaziranga as a World Heritage Site for its exceptional biodiversity and conservation efforts.
What are the major attractions around Kaziranga?
Orang National Park, Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, and Kakochang Falls are nearby attractions.
What is the significance of Mora Diphlu in Kaziranga?
Mora Diphlu forms the southern boundary of Kaziranga National Park.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
