Kaziranga National Park Travel Guide | Safari, Wildlife & Tips
Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park

Assam, India

Kaziranga National Park Travel Guide: Safaris, Wildlife, Best Time & How to Reach

Kaziranga National Park, located in Assam's Brahmaputra Valley, is one of India's most remarkable wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is internationally recognised for its population of the greater one-horned rhinoceros, while its wetlands, grasslands and forests provide habitat for elephants, tigers, wild water buffalo, swamp deer and hundreds of species of birds.

What makes Kaziranga particularly special is its landscape. The park is shaped by the Brahmaputra River and its annual flooding, creating a constantly changing mosaic of tall elephant grass, wetlands, shallow water bodies and woodland. This unique ecosystem supports an extraordinary concentration of wildlife and makes a safari here very different from wildlife experiences in India's dry forests.

For travellers visiting Northeast India, Kaziranga can easily be combined with Guwahati, Nameri, Majuli, Jorhat or Meghalaya, making it an important stop on an Assam and Northeast India itinerary.

Why Visit Kaziranga National Park?

The greater one-horned rhinoceros is undoubtedly Kaziranga's biggest attraction. The park protects the world's largest population of this species, with UNESCO currently describing the population as exceeding 2,000 animals.

But rhinos are only part of the story.

Kaziranga is also home to:

  • Royal Bengal tigers
  • Asian elephants
  • Wild water buffalo
  • Eastern swamp deer
  • Gaur
  • Sambar
  • Hog deer
  • Wild boar
  • Leopard
  • Capped langur
  • Hoolock gibbon
  • Sloth bear
  • Numerous species of waterbirds and forest birds

The wetlands of Kaziranga are also important for migratory birds, while the park's waterways support aquatic species including the Ganges River dolphin

Kaziranga One Horned Rhinoceros

Kaziranga Jeep Safari

A jeep safari is the most popular way to explore Kaziranga National Park. Safaris take visitors through the park's grasslands, forests and wetlands in search of rhinos, elephants, deer, wild buffalo and other wildlife. There are multiple ranges in Kaziranga. The safari timings mentioned above are for the Kohora range, the main Central forest range of Kaziranga. Other than Kohora, you can go for a safari in the Agoratoli range or the Bagori Range. There's another range called Burhapaahar range but there are not many safaris in that range. The Agoratoli range is more famous for birdwatching while Kohora and Bagori Range have higher chances of seeing wild animals including the One Horned Rhinoceros.

The park has four principal tourist ranges:

1. Kohora – Central Range

The Kohora Range, also known as the Central Range, is the most popular safari zone and is convenient for travellers staying around the main Kaziranga tourism hub.

The landscape includes open grasslands, wetlands, woodland and water bodies, providing opportunities to see rhinos, elephants, deer and other large mammals.

2. Bagori – Western Range

The Bagori Range is known for its open grassland landscape and good opportunities for viewing large mammals. It is another popular choice for visitors looking for rhino and elephant sightings.

3. Agoratoli – Eastern Range

Located towards the eastern side of the park, Agoratoli is particularly interesting for birdwatchers because of its wetlands and varied habitats.

Birding enthusiasts should consider including this range in their itinerary.

4. Burapahar Range

The Burapahar Range offers a somewhat different landscape and can provide a quieter safari experience. It is located towards the western side of Kaziranga and is less frequently visited than the Central and Western ranges.

Tip: If you have enough time, consider doing safaris in different ranges rather than visiting the same range twice. Each area has its own combination of grasslands, wetlands and forest habitats. 

Things to know about the Kaziranga Jeep Safari: 

  • There are morning safaris and evening safaris. You can take a morning elephant safari. These start at around 7 am in the morning. For the evening safari, you can take a jeep Safari in the afternoon at around 1:30-2pm and it will bring you back before dark.          
  • Jeep safaris usually happen around the Kohora range.
  • The range itself is quite interesting with wide open spaces, dense jungle, watering holes and streams. You will come across rhinos, water buffalo, deer and elephants, the tigers are likely to remain elusive. On the Kohora range, the most visited among the lot in Kaziranga, your jeep safari lasts around an hour, where all the sightseeing happens.     
  • Jeep safaris usually cost around Rs 4000 depending on which range. The place you stay at will get you organized if you ask the front desk.                                                                            

Kaziranga Elephant Safari

Elephant Safari in Kaziranga

Elephant safaris have traditionally been another way of experiencing Kaziranga, particularly in the Central and Western ranges. Assam Tourism currently lists elephant safari as one of the wildlife experiences available in the park. Availability, timings and booking arrangements can vary, so travellers should check the latest information before planning around an elephant safari.

For most travellers, a jeep safari remains the more flexible way to explore different parts of the park.

Kaziranga National Park Tickets Prices:

The department charges entry fees of  Rs 115 per person. If you take DSLR Camera then it is Rs 100, Road tax Rs 300 and Rs 100 for security

Where to stay in Kaziranga?

Good places to stay in Kaziranga when you have a higher budget includes Diphlu River Lodge, Kathoni Farmstay, Iora Retreat, Borgos Resort & Spa

Places to stay in Kaziranga on a reasonable budget includes Bon Villa Retreat, Sneha Bhawan

Diphlu River Lodge, Kaziranga

How Many Days Do You Need in Kaziranga?

We recommend spending at least 2 nights and 3 days in Kaziranga.

This allows enough time for:

  • One morning jeep safari
  • One afternoon jeep safari
  • A safari in another range
  • A visit to the Orchid Park
  • A tea garden or village experience
  • Relaxed time at your resort or homestay

If wildlife photography or birdwatching is the main purpose of your trip, consider staying for 3 nights or longer. Assam Tourism recommends allowing two to three days to explore the park's four main ranges.

Best time to visit Kaziranga National Park

The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is during the winter season, from November to April. Here's why?

  • Pleasant Weather: The weather is cool and dry during these months, making it comfortable for outdoor activities like wildlife safaris.
  • Wildlife Sightings: The dry season makes it easier to spot animals as they congregate around water sources.
  • Park Accessibility: The park remains open for visitors during this period.  

Peak Season: November to February is peak season, so expect higher crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodation.
Monsoon Season: The park is closed from May to October due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

Kaziranga National Park Travel Trips

Things to do in Kaziranga National Park

A Kaziranga trip doesn't have to be limited to a jeep safari. Some of the experiences worth considering include:

Wildlife Safari

Explore the park's grasslands, wetlands and forests by jeep and look for rhinos, elephants, wild buffalo, deer and other wildlife.

Birdwatching

Kaziranga is an important habitat for both resident and migratory birds. The wetlands and eastern part of the park are particularly interesting for birdwatchers.

Visit Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park

The Orchid and Biodiversity Park near Kaziranga showcases Assam's rich botanical diversity and is an interesting addition to a wildlife-focused itinerary.

Tea Garden Visit

Assam's tea gardens are an important part of the landscape surrounding Kaziranga. A visit offers an opportunity to learn about tea cultivation and experience the scenery of the region.

Explore Karbi Villages

The communities around Kaziranga provide opportunities to learn about Karbi culture, food, crafts and village life. Assam Tourism also highlights village and cultural experiences around the park.

Visit Kakochang Waterfall

Located in the nearby Karbi Anglong landscape, Kakochang Waterfall makes an interesting excursion for travellers with additional time.

Brahmaputra & River Experiences

Depending on the season and local operating conditions, visitors can explore riverine landscapes around the Brahmaputra and look for aquatic wildlife including the Ganges River dolphin.

Best Places to Visit in Kaziranga National Park-

  • Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary
  • Kaziranga National Orchid & Diversity Park
  • Ethnic Village (Karbi Anglong District)
  • Hathikuli Tea Estate

Kaziranga Travel Tips

A few simple precautions can make your safari more enjoyable:

  • Carry comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Neutral or muted colours are preferable for wildlife viewing.
  • Carry binoculars if you're interested in birdwatching.
  • Bring a camera, but follow all park photography rules.
  • Keep your phone on silent during the safari.
  • Do not feed or attempt to approach wildlife.
  • Do not litter inside or around the park.
  • Follow your guide's instructions at all times.
  • Safari timings and availability can change depending on weather and Forest Department regulations.
  • Check current safari availability, fees and operating conditions before your trip.

Most importantly, remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Kaziranga's attraction lies in experiencing its landscape and ecosystem as much as in seeing any particular animal.

For a customized Kaziranga tour experience you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in

Kaziranga National Park: Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are enough for a Kaziranga tour?

For a first visit, 2 nights and 3 days is a good duration. Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers may prefer 3 nights or more.

Which safari range is best in Kaziranga?

There isn't one universally "best" range. Kohora, Bagori, Agoratoli and Burapahar offer different landscapes and wildlife experiences. If time permits, visiting more than one range gives you a broader experience of Kaziranga.

Can I see a rhino in Kaziranga?

Kaziranga is home to the world's largest population of greater one-horned rhinoceros, making rhinos one of the park's signature wildlife experiences. However, sightings are still dependent on conditions and chance.

Can I see tigers in Kaziranga?

Kaziranga is a Tiger Reserve and supports a significant tiger population. However, tigers are naturally elusive, and sightings cannot be guaranteed on safari.

When is Kaziranga open?

The main tourism season generally runs from November to April, but opening and closing dates and access to individual ranges can change depending on flooding, weather and Forest Department decisions. Check current conditions before travelling. The park remains open from Mid September till May

Is Kaziranga worth visiting?

Yes. Kaziranga offers a distinctive wildlife experience centred around its floodplain grasslands, wetlands and forests. It is particularly renowned for its greater one-horned rhinoceros and also supports elephants, tigers, wild water buffalo, swamp deer and a rich birdlife.

Kaziranga National Park Facts

  • Kaziranga is one of the few places in the world, besides Africa, which is home to multiple species of large cats, such as leopards and Royal Bengal Tigers.
  • Another fascinating fact about Kaziranga is that it is home to the world’s largest population of the Great Indian One-horned Rhinoceros, Wild Asiatic Water Buffalo and Eastern Swamp Deer.
  • According to the latest Rhino census, the rhino population in Kaziranga is 2,413.
  • Kaziranga National Park also boasts the highest density of tigers in the world.
  • Although its name is associated with several legends, historians believe that it gets its name from the Karbi word, Kajir-a-rang, which means, “the village of Kajir”. Kajir is a common name for a girl child, and it is widely believed that a woman by the same name ruled this area.
  • Perhaps you didn’t know that it is the British who should be credited with the creation of Kaziranga National Park. It was in 1904 when Mary Curzon, wife of Lord Curzon, persuaded him to take immediate and effective steps to protect the rhinos in the region. And that is how the Kaziranga National Park came into being on 1st June, 1905.
  • The wildlife in Kaziranga is the only one of its kind where you can find the Eastern Swamp Deer, also known as Barasingha, which grows up to 6 feet in height, and can be identified by their yellow hair and distinctive white spots above their spine.
  • The grasslands in Kaziranga National Park have a strong resemblance to the famous African grasslands. The common tall grasses are sugarcanes, spear grass, elephant grass and common reed.
  • An amazing fact about Kaziranga is that it has been identified as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International, and is home to a variety of migratory birds.
  • Kaziranga National Park was once home to seven species of vultures, out of which, only four have survived. These are Indian Vulture, Slender-billed vulture and Indian White-rumped Vulture.

How to Reach

Flight
By Air
Most convenient way to reach Kohora is to take a flight to Guwahati for all those coming from outside the North-east India. Guwahati has regular flights to and from Delhi, Kolkata, Imphal, Agartalla, Bagdogra, Dibrugarh, Silchar and Jorhat.
Train
By Train
One can reach by railways to Guwahati, which is well connected to the rest of India. From Guwahati, one can, then, go by road to Kohora. There are also trains to Jorhat from Guwahati/ Dibrugarh. One can alight at Jorhat and drive by road to Kohora.
Car
By Road
Kohora is the main tourist hub for Kaziranga. Its on the National Highway 37 NH 37 which is linked to Guwahati on the west and Jorhat on the east. The distance from Guwahati to Kaziranga is around 200kms and it takes 4-5 hours depending upon traffic.
Book Homestays around Kaziranga National Park

Book Homestays around Kaziranga National Park

Tour Packages around Kaziranga National Park

Tour Packages around Kaziranga National Park