Kaziranga wildlife Tour
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of India’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, especially known for its thriving population of one-horned rhinoceroses. Located in the state of Assam in northeastern India, Kaziranga offers a unique wildlife experience with its diverse flora and fauna, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to planning a wildlife tour to Kaziranga National Park.
Best Time to Visit
November to April: The ideal time to visit Kaziranga is between November and April when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are at their peak. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (May to October) due to heavy rains and flooding.
Wildlife at Kaziranga
Kaziranga is renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, wetlands, and forests. The park is home to:
One-Horned Rhinoceros: Kaziranga is the world’s largest sanctuary for the Indian rhinoceros, housing more than 70% of the global population.
Tigers: Kaziranga is also home to a healthy population of Bengal tigers, and it’s one of the best places in India to spot tigers in the wild.
Elephants: Large herds of wild Asian elephants can be seen roaming the grasslands.
Wild Water Buffalo: Kaziranga has one of the highest populations of wild water buffaloes.
Other Mammals: Other species found in the park include leopards, swamp deer (barasingha), hog deer, wild boars, and gaur (Indian bison).
Birds: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to more than 500 species, including migratory birds like the greater adjutant stork, pallas’s fish eagle, and bengal florican.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Kaziranga is also known for its population of crocodiles and snakes, including the king cobra.
Safari Experience
Kaziranga offers several safari options, which give visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse ecosystems and witness its wildlife up close:
jeep Safari Best for: Exploring deeper into the park, especially the central and western ranges.
Zones: The park is divided into several safari zones, including Central Range (Kohora), Western Range (Bagori), and Eastern Range (Agoratoli).
Safari Timings: Jeep safaris usually operate early in the morning and late in the afternoon to maximize wildlife sightings.
Elephant Safari
Best for: A unique perspective of the park, especially in areas with dense vegetation where jeeps can’t access.
Experience: Riding an elephant through the tall grasses and wetland areas allows you to get close to wildlife, particularly rhinoceroses and deer, without disturbing them.
Availability: Elephant safaris are typically offered in the Central Range and are a popular choice for tourists.
Safari Zones
Kohora Range (Central): The most popular zone for tiger sightings and rhino photography. This area also offers access to the park's core zone.
Bagori Range (Western): Known for its scenic beauty and frequent sightings of elephants, rhinos, and tigers. This zone is less crowded and offers a quieter experience.
Agoratoli Range (Eastern): The best zone for birdwatching, with a large number of migratory and resident birds. It’s also known for its beautiful wetlands and river views.
Burapahar Range (Northern): A less-visited zone with hilly terrain and rich biodiversity, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience.