Kaziranga
Unearth Your Wild Spirit

Location & Approach

• Location – Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Assam, Northeastern India. It's nestled between the Nagaon and Golaghat districts, bordered by the mighty Brahmaputra River.

• Coordinates – Approximately 26°30 N to 26°45 N latitude and 93°08 E to 93°36 E longitude.

 

Surrounding Region – Bokakhat (23 km), Golaghat (65 km), Jorhat (97 km), Tezpur (41.4 km), and Guwahati (185 km).

 

Approach into Kaziranga

• By Air – Nearest airports are Tezpur (41.4 km), Jorhat (97 km), and Guwahati (185 km). Taxis and buses are readily available.

• By Rail – Nearest railway stations are Furkating (123 km) and Guwahati (163 km).

• By Road – Well-connected by NH 37. Regular bus services from Guwahati and Tezpur stop at Kohora, the main entrance.

 

Weather & Best Time to Travel

 

Climate – Tropical with three distinct seasons.

• Summer (Mid-Feb to May) – Hot and humid (20°C - 34°C).

• Monsoon (May to Sep) – Warm, humid, and heavy rainfall, often leading to floods. Park is closed.

• Winter (Nov to Mid-Feb) – Mild and dry (5°C - 25°C).

 

Best Time to Visit – November to April offers pleasant, cooler, and drier weather, ideal for wildlife viewing. The park reopens in November after the monsoon.

 

Best Things to See & Do

 

Nature & Wildlife

• Rhino Capital – Home to two-thirds of the world's Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros population. High chances of spotting them.

• Big Five – Beyond rhinos, spot tigers (though elusive), wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and elephants.

• Birdwatcher's Paradise – Over 500 species, including hornbills, storks, and pelicans. An Important Bird Area.

• Safaris – Embark on thrilling Jeep Safaris across the park's four zones (Kohora, Bagori, Agaratoli, Burapahar). For a unique perspective, experience an Elephant Safari at sunrise for close wildlife encounters.

• Brahmaputra River Cruise – Spot rare Gangetic River Dolphins and enjoy birdwatching.

 

Culture & Experiences

• Assamese Tribal Life – Immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyles of the Mishing and Karbi communities in nearby villages. Discover traditional food, weaving techniques, music, and regional crafts.

• Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park – A "miniature Assam" featuring over 500 orchid species, medicinal plants, bamboo gardens, and a rice seed bank. Enjoy traditional folk dance performances (Bihu, Karbi bamboo dance, Sattriya) and explore museums showcasing handlooms and terracotta art.

• Tea Garden Exploration – Stroll through the serene Hathikuli and Difloo tea gardens, experiencing the region's colonial heritage and tranquil beauty.

• Vaishnavite Culture – Visit satras (monasteries and art centers) and namghars (prayer halls) to understand Assam's rich spiritual and artistic traditions. Witness artisans crafting masks from clay and bamboo.

 

Sacred & Informational

• Numaligarh and Deopahar Ruins – Explore historic archaeological sites offering glimpses into the region's past.

 

Trek & Active

• Kakochang Waterfalls – A beautiful natural spot for relaxation and scenic views.

 

Must-Try Local Dishes

Savor the authentic flavors of Assamese cuisine, characterized by fresh, local ingredients and minimal spices.

• Khar – A unique, alkaline banana stem dish.

• Masor Tenga – A refreshing sour fish curry.

• Pura – Delicious roasted meat, fish, or vegetables.

• Pitika – Comforting mashed potatoes or vegetables.

• Duck & Pigeon Meat – Local delicacies often cooked with traditional ingredients.

• Pitha – Various types of traditional rice cakes.

• Rice Beer – Locally brewed varieties like Xaas and Laupani.

 

Festivals

• Bihu Festival (April, October, January) – The most important Assamese festival, celebrating harvest seasons with vibrant dances, songs, and traditional feasts.

• Kaziranga Elephant Festival (February) – An annual event promoting elephant conservation, featuring parades and performances by decorated elephants.

• Ambubachi Festival (Guwahati - June) – A significant Tantric festival at the Kamakhya Devi temple.

 

Recommended Stays & Culinary Experiences

Kaziranga offers a range of accommodations that complement its natural and cultural charm –

• Luxury & Comfort – Diphlu River Lodge, Iora - The Retreat, Borgos The Wild Haven.

• Eco-Friendly & Budget – Kaziranga Eco Village Resort, Jonaki Kareng, Mandu The Escape Resort.

 

Many resorts offer traditional Assamese meals and can arrange cultural evenings or village visits, allowing you to sample local cuisines and immerse yourself in the regional culture.

 

Travel Tips

• Clothing – Pack layers. Wear neutral colors (khaki, green, brown) for safaris to avoid attracting insects. Long sleeves and trousers protect from mosquitos.

• Hydration & Sun Protection – Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

• Insect Repellent – Essential for safaris. Avoid perfumes.

• Footwear – Comfortable walking shoes.

• Water Safety – Drink only bottled water.

• Respect Local Customs – Dress modestly at temples, ask before photographing people.

• Book in Advance – Especially for peak season (Dec-Jan) and elephant safaris.