Kaziranga National Park: Read important check list before visiting 2024-25
Things you should keep in mind before visiting Kaziranga National park
Introduction
Kaziranga National Park, located in Assam, India, is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for hosting the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros, it spans 430 square kilometers of lush grasslands, wetlands, and forests. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, the park also boasts significant populations of Bengal tigers, Asiatic elephants, swamp deer, and diverse bird species.
History
The park’s establishment dates back to 1905 when it was designated as a reserved forest to protect the dwindling population of rhinos. Mary Curzon, the wife of Lord Curzon, played a pivotal role in initiating its conservation. Over the years, it gained recognition as a game sanctuary (1916), a national park (1974), and finally, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1985).
Major Flora and Fauna of Kaziranga
Kaziranga’s biodiversity is one of its highlights. The table below offers insights into the key flora and fauna and their specific locations within the park:
| Category | Species | Location in Park |
|---|---|---|
| Flora | Elephant Grass, Water Lilies | Grasslands and Wetlands |
| Mammals | One-horned Rhino | Central and Eastern Zones |
| Bengal Tiger | Central Zone (Tiger Reserve Area) | |
| Asiatic Elephant | All Zones | |
| Birds | Great Indian Hornbill | Central and Western Zones |
| Migratory Pelicans | Wetlands in Northern Zone | |
| Reptiles | Gharials, Turtles | Brahmaputra River and Wetlands |
Connectivity
Here’s how you can reach Kaziranga National Park:
| Mode | Nearest Point | Distance (in km) |
|---|---|---|
| Railway Station | Furkating Junction | 75 km |
| Airport | Jorhat Airport | 97 km |
| Guwahati Airport | 217 km | |
| Bus Stand | Kohora Bus Stand | 2 km |
| Nearest City | Tezpur | 50 km |
Resorts Near Kaziranga
Here’s a list of resorts near Kaziranga National Park, ranked from most popular to less popular, along with their average price range:
| Resort Name | Average Price (INR/Night) |
|---|---|
| Kaziranga Resort | ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 |
| Iora – The Retreat | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Dhanshree Resort | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
| Wild Grass Lodge | ₹3,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Bonroja Motel | ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 |
Safari Options and Prices
The park offers a variety of safari experiences. Here’s a breakdown:
| Safari Type | Duration | Price (INR/Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Safari | 2-3 Hours | ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 |
| Elephant Safari | 1 Hour | ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 |
| Boat Safari | 2 Hours | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 |
Park Gates and Their Specialties
Kaziranga National Park has several gates, each known for unique wildlife:
| Gate | Special Flora and Fauna |
|---|---|
| Kohora Gate | Rhinos, Elephants, Wetlands Birds |
| Bagori Gate | Tigers, Wild Buffalos, Deer |
| Agaratoli Gate | Migratory Birds, Aquatic Reptiles |
| Burapahar Gate | Dense Forest, Elephants |
Timings in Different Seasons
| Season | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Winter (Nov-Apr) | 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Summer (May-Oct) | 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM |
Best Season to Visit
The ideal time to visit Kaziranga is between November and April, as the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent. The park remains closed during monsoons.
Ticket Prices
| Category | Ticket Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Indian Nationals | ₹100 |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹650 |
| Camera Charges | ₹200-₹500 |
Activities in the Park
- Wildlife Safaris
- Bird Watching
- Photography Tours
- Nature Walks
Agent Number and Contact Details
- Park Helpline: + 91 – 9212777225/9212553107
- Contact Email: info@kaziranga-national-park.com
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Jeep Safari at Kohora Gate
- Afternoon: Visit the local tea gardens
Day 2:
- Morning: Elephant Safari at Bagori Gate
- Afternoon: Birdwatching at Agaratoli Gate
Pro’s and Con’s
Pro’s
- Incredible biodiversity
- Easy accessibility
- Variety of safari options
Con’s
- Seasonal closures during monsoons
- Crowds during peak season
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Follow park guidelines
- Wear neutral colors for safaris
- Carry water and essentials
Don’ts
- Avoid loud noises or littering
- Do not feed animals
- Stay within designated zones
Conclusion
Kaziranga National Park is undeniably worth visiting. Its unmatched biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and conservation success stories make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
FAQs
1. What is Kaziranga National Park famous for?
Kaziranga is famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses and diverse wildlife.
2. What is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is from November to April.
3. How do I book a safari?
Safaris can be booked online or through authorized agents.
4. Are there accommodations near the park?
Yes, multiple resorts and lodges are available near the park.
5. What are the entry fees for the park?
Entry fees vary for Indians (₹100) and foreigners (₹650), with additional charges for cameras.
