There are only two places in the world where the one-horned rhinoceros still lives in the wild: Nepal and India. With 2600 of these incredible beasts in Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India, you can’t visit the park without spotting at least one of them.
The 166-square-mile park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the last natural areas in Northeastern India, and regarded as one of the finest wildlife refuges in the world. It is particularly known for its protection of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
The park’s “Big Five” are the rhino (2,613 individuals), Indian elephant (1,940), eastern swamp deer (468), Bengal tiger (118), and wild water buffalo (also known as the Asian buffalo, 1,666). The park is also home to various types of monkeys, deer, and birds, including many migratory species.
A jeep tour takes you across an unpaved, elevated road that cuts through 13-foot-high elephant grass, meanders through forests, and follows rivers. The park has a strict policy that you are not allowed to exit your vehicle, except at a few designated points where you can climb watch towers to take in the vastness of the park and spot rhinos and many other animals. The sighting of a tiger can happen but still is a lucky shot.
When to visit
November to April is the only time the park can be visited, and it is closed between May and October. November through February are the most pleasant months in terms of temperatures.
How to get there
Fly to Guwahati, Assam’s capital, and from there, either take the bus, or a taxi, for the 4-5 hour road trip to the park. Another option is to take a short flight to Jorhat and then take a bus or taxi to the park (about 2 hours).
Where to stay
You will find accommodation in all budget ranges near the main entrances, particularly in and around Kohora, on the NH37 highway.
Entrance fees & other practicalities
- The park is divided into three areas: West, Central, and East. Jeep safaris are organized through a cooperative of locals. Depending on which part of the area you visit, you will pay between 2200 and 2700 rupees (approximately $30.00) for a 2.5- to 3-hour ride. If you want to divide the fee further, you can share the ride with others. You can book jeeps at the entrance of the park.
- Online you will find higher prices quoted by tour operators who include a fee of their own and who may provide a full package, including accommodation and transportation to and from the airport.
- Note that not all drivers speak English; you’ll have to ask specifically for one that does.
- There are two safaris per day, at 8 am and 2 pm.
- A jeep safari offers you all you need to spot Kaziranga’s phenomenal wildlife. While the park does offer elephant rides, note that the activity is harmful to the animals. Here’s more on that topic.
- More info on Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve can be found here.
Images by Coen Wubbels
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