Nameri National Park, located in the Sonitpur District of Assam, India, is a significant wildlife sanctuary that offers a rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, it covers an area of approximately 212 square kilometers and shares its northern boundary with the Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh, collectively forming an expansive ecosystem of over 1,000 square kilometers
Elephant Patrolling at Nameri National Park
History and Significance
1978 – Declared a Reserve Forest
1985 – Upgraded to a Sanctuary (137 sq. km.)
1998 – Notified as a National Park (200+ sq. km.)
1999 – Declared as a Tiger Reserve (second in Assam after Manas)
This evolution reflects its ecological importance and the efforts made to conserve its unique biodiversity.
Geography and Flora
The park’s landscape is a blend of dense forests, grasslands, and river systems. The Jia Bhoroli River flows through its southern boundary, creating a vibrant riverine ecosystem that sustains both wildlife and people.
Flora: Over 600 plant species, including sal forests, teak, bamboo groves, Gmelina arborea, and a variety of orchids.
Fauna:
Mammals: Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, gaurs, wild dogs, and several species of deer.
Birds: 300+ species including the endangered white-winged wood duck, four species of hornbills, ibisbill, and wreathed hornbill.
Reptiles: Indian cobra, king cobra, pythons, and various turtles.
Nameri is often described as a birdwatcher’s paradise and an excellent spot for nature photographers.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time is November to March.
Winter (Oct–Mar): Pleasant weather, high chances of wildlife sightings, perfect for safaris and trekking.
Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot and dry, but still suitable for river rafting and birding.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Heavy rainfall; the park remains lush but difficult to explore.
Things to Do in Nameri
Wildlife Safaris – Explore the forest trails on guided jeep safaris or elephant-back rides.
Birdwatching – Spot rare species like the white-winged wood duck, hornbills, and migratory birds.
River Rafting on Jia Bhoroli – A thrilling yet scenic activity, perfect for adventure seekers.
Nature Treks & Jungle Walks – Explore the forest on foot with trained naturalists.
Fishing & Angling – Jia Bhoroli is popular for golden mahseer fishing (catch-and-release).
Nameri Travel Trips
Travel Tips for Nameri National Park
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Nameri National Park is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are at their best.
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options available near the park, including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses.
Transportation: The nearest airport is Jorhat, and the nearest railway station is Mariani. From there, you can hire taxis or take local buses to reach Nameri.
Activities: Apart from wildlife safaris, you can also enjoy activities like river rafting, trekking, and fishing.
Wildlife Spotting: Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife sightings.
Packing: Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and insect repellent.
Permit: You will need a permit to enter Nameri National Park. It can be obtained from the park authorities.
Nameri Facts
Nameri National Park is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary located in Assam, India. It is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Here are some interesting facts about Nameri National Park:
Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, rhinos, leopards, and various species of deer. It is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species recorded.
Flora: Nameri is known for its lush forests, which are dominated by sal trees. Other notable trees include bamboo, teak, and betel nut.
Riverine Landscape: The Jiabharali River flows through the park, creating a beautiful riverine ecosystem.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy activities like elephant safaris, jungle treks, and birdwatching.
Accessibility: Nameri National Park is well-connected to major cities in Assam, making it easy to reach.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport. From Jorhat, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Nameri National Park.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Mariani. From Mariani, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Nameri National Park.
By Road
Nameri is well-connected by road to major cities in Assam. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Guwahati or Jorhat to reach the park.
