Kaziranga National Park, India - Things to do & Accommodation

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Known for its impressive biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and a remarkable population of one-horned rhinoceroses, Kaziranga offers an unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. This travel guide will help you plan your visit, covering essential information, things to do, accommodation options, and practical tips.

Essential Information

Location: Kaziranga National Park is located in the state of Assam, in northeastern India. The park spans across the districts of Golaghat, Nagaon, and Karbi Anglong, covering an area of about 1,030 square kilometers.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kaziranga is from November to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the park is open to tourists. The monsoon season (May to September) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall, which can cause flooding and make safaris difficult.

Wildlife: Kaziranga is best known for being the home of the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. The park also hosts tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and hundreds of bird species.

Interesting Facts About Kaziranga

One-Horned Rhinos: Kaziranga is the sanctuary for around 2,400 one-horned rhinoceroses, which account for more than 70% of the global population.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Kaziranga was designated a World Heritage Site in 1985 due to its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Diverse Ecosystems: The park is a mix of grasslands, wetlands, and forested areas, making it an ecologically diverse haven for wildlife.
Tiger Conservation: Kaziranga is one of the best places in the world to spot Bengal tigers, with a high density of these big cats.

How to Get There

By Air: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport (about 97 km away), which connects with major cities like Guwahati. Alternatively, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is about 200 km away and offers more flight options.
With Train: The nearest major railway station is Furkating Junction, around 75 km from Kaziranga. Guwahati railway station is also a convenient option if you are traveling from other parts of India.
By Road: Kaziranga is well-connected by road from Guwahati, Jorhat, and other nearby cities. Private taxis, buses, and rental vehicles are common modes of transport to reach the park.

Best Things to Do in Kaziranga

Jeep Safari: The most popular way to explore the park is through a thrilling jeep safari. Safaris are available in three zones: Central, Western, and Eastern. Each zone offers a different experience, with abundant wildlife sightings, including rhinos, tigers, and various bird species.
Elephant Safari: For a unique and intimate view of the park, take an elephant safari. This is an exciting way to get closer to wildlife, particularly rhinos, as elephants can traverse the park’s thick vegetation.
Bird Watching: Kaziranga is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 480 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican and the greater adjutant stork. The park’s wetlands are perfect for spotting migratory birds.
Explore Tea Gardens: The region around Kaziranga is home to lush tea estates. Take a break and visit one of the nearby tea plantations to learn about tea production and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea.
Cultural Visits: Kaziranga is rich in Assamese culture. Visit nearby villages to experience local traditions, handicrafts, and cuisine.

Best Accommodation Options

Kaziranga offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget stays to luxury resorts. Here are some top picks:

Diphlu River Lodge: For a luxurious experience, stay at Diphlu River Lodge, an eco-friendly resort located along the banks of the river. It offers well-appointed cottages and is close to the park’s central zone.
Wildgrass Lodge: This is a mid-range resort offering spacious rooms and a tranquil atmosphere. It is located near the park’s western zone.
Kaziranga National Park Guest House: For budget-conscious travelers, the government-run guest house offers basic amenities with easy access to the park.

Attractions Near Kaziranga National Park

Manas National Park: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas is located about 180 km from Kaziranga. It is a haven for biodiversity, with tigers, elephants, and the rare golden langur.
Majuli Island: Situated on the Brahmaputra River, Majuli is the world’s largest river island, known for its monasteries, natural beauty, and unique Assamese culture. It’s around 230 km from Kaziranga.
Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: For those interested in primates, this sanctuary is home to the endangered hoolock gibbons. It’s a great spot for a day trip.

Getting Around Kaziranga

The best way to explore Kaziranga is through a combination of jeep and elephant safaris, which are guided and take you into the heart of the park. For areas outside the park, taxis, hired cars, and bicycles are available for travel.

Elephant Safaris: Usually available early in the morning, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
Bicycles: Some resorts offer bicycle rentals for exploring nearby villages and attractions.

Day Trips from Kaziranga

Sibsagar (100 km): Explore the historical town of Sibsagar, known for its temples, palaces, and the majestic Sivasagar Tank. This is a good day trip for history buffs.
Tezpur (90 km): Visit the ancient town of Tezpur, famous for its temples, archaeological sites, and the peaceful Nameri National Park.
Nameri National Park (100 km): Known for its scenic beauty, Nameri is a haven for nature lovers. You can enjoy activities like river rafting and birdwatching.

Practical Tips

Permits: Before visiting, ensure you have the necessary entry permits.
Clothing: Wear lightweight, comfortable clothes and sturdy footwear for safaris. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Currency: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATM facilities are available in nearby towns, but it’s best to carry cash for remote areas.
Health Precautions: Carry essential medications, as medical facilities are limited inside the park. Drink bottled water to avoid any health issues.
Respect Local Wildlife: Follow the park’s rules and respect the wildlife by maintaining silence during safaris and not disturbing the animals.

Conclusion

Kaziranga National Park is an enchanting destination, perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. With its diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Kaziranga promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re tracking tigers on a jeep safari, marveling at the majestic one-horned rhino, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, Kaziranga offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Plan your visit and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of India’s wilderness.