Posted 13 March 2024 in To the wild

Reasons to visit Kaziranga National Park if you love wildlife

There is something about Kaziranga National Park, the whole world is at its gates. Either thrilled to see the great one-horned rhinoceros, or to simply explore the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you ask for the reasons to visit Kaziranga National Park, you’ll find a list of activities to do, animals to see and wildlife retreat to experience.

Being a biodiversity hotspot, it features a diverse ecosystem like grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests that supports a wide variety of species. Besides being home to the one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga National Park is a haven to other animals which include elephants, wild water buffalo, and numerous bird species. It is also home to the highest density of tigers.

Kaziranga National Park offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. There are many ways to explore Kaziranga National Park through jeep safaris, elephant-back rides, and boat cruises, which allows visitors to immerse in the beauty of the wilderness.

Reasons to visit Kaziranga National Park

If you have a deep appreciation for wildlife, Kaziranga National Park is a destination that demands your attention.

Here are some of the compelling reasons why you should visit Kaziranga National Park:

1. Kaziranga has rich biodiversity

Kaziranga is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the great one-horned rhinoceros, which comprises the majority of the world's population of this species. Additionally, the park boasts a high density of Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, wild water buffalo, and deer species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

2. Catch a sight of the one-horned rhino

The great one-horned rhinoceros is a fascinating species to witness, especially when it is roaming freely in their natural habitat. With the increasing population of these beautiful species, you can catch sight of one-horned rhinoceros snuffling and roaming around the green grassland.

3. It has a unique ecosystem

The park's diverse ecosystem, which encompasses grasslands, marshes, and tropical forests, provides a habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. Exploring Kaziranga offers a chance to witness the intricate balance of nature and marvel at the interconnectedness of its inhabitants.

4. There are exciting safaris

Kaziranga offers thrilling jeep safaris, elephant-back rides, and boat cruises, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the park's wildlife while exploring its picturesque landscapes. These safaris offer unforgettable opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.

5. Watch the Bengal tigers roam freely

Along with the great one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga National Park is also home to the Bengal tigers. Kaziranga National Park is famous for having the big five mammals which includes the royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, swamp deer, Asiatic elephants, and water buffalo.

6. Kaziranga has several conservation successes

Kaziranga National Park has been instrumental in the conservation of several endangered species, most notably the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park's successful conservation efforts have led to a significant increase in rhino populations, showcasing the importance of protected areas in safeguarding wildlife.

7. It is a bird watching paradise

In addition to its charismatic mammal species, Kaziranga is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 500 bird species recorded within its boundaries. From majestic raptors like eagles and hawks to colourful migratory birds like the greater adjutant stork and the Asian openbill stork, the park offers endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.

8. Kaziranga has a cultural significance

Kaziranga is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also a place of cultural significance, with indigenous communities residing in the surrounding areas. Visitors can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region, including traditional customs, crafts, and cuisine.

How to get to Kaziranga National Park?

A visit to Kaziranga National Park promises an unforgettable wildlife experience, and getting to this UNESCO site is easy from either the largest city in Assam, Guwahati, to its neighbouring city, Jorhat.

Here is how you can reach Kaziranga National Park:

Getting to Kaziranga National Park from Guwahati: Guwahati Airport is an international airport offering easy access from several countries. You can hire a cab from Guwahati Airport to Kaziranga National Park. Alternatively, you can also take a local bus from ISBT Guwahati to the closest Kohora town and arrive at the main gate of the central zone of the Kaziranga National Park.
Getting to Kaziranga National Park from Jorhat: The closest airport to Kaziranga National Park is at Jorhat. Taxi services are easily available from the Jorhat Airport, you can also catch a local bus from ISBT Jorhat to Kohora town, which is the main gate for the central zone of the national park.

Best time to visit Kaziranga National Park

The most perfect time to visit Kaziranga National Park is during the winters, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Choose between November to April for optimal wildlife viewing. The temperatures during daytime range from 15°C to 25°C.

The dry season in Kaziranga National Park has minimal rainfall with less dense vegetation making it easier to spot wildlife in the grasslands and marshes. It also forces animals to gather around water sources, making them more visible to visitors.

Winter months are also the best time for wildlife safari in Kaziranga National Park for a smoother and enjoyable jeep, elephant-back rides, and boat cruises. Visitors can explore the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife habitats with ease.

Note: Kaziranga National Park remains closed between May/June to September/October. You can visit the official website of Kaziranga National Park for the latest updates.

Accommodations in Kaziranga National Park

Since it is a very popular national park among wildlife enthusiasts, you can find several accommodations in Kaziranga National Park. Each of these come in various preferences that suit every budget, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly lodges. There are options for luxury accommodations in Kaziranga, like eco-friendly lodges that offer luxurious cottages, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

For those with mid-range budget, there are also affordable hotels in Kaziranga nestled amidst lush greenery with cosy cottages. Homestays and guesthouses are also pretty popular for the backpacker community who want to experience local lifestyle, authentic home-cooked meals in a tranquil setting. These are just a few options for hotels in Kaziranga National Park. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Takeaway

Kaziranga National Park offers a medley of reasons to visit, from its iconic Indian one-horned rhinoceros to majestic Bengal tigers and vibrant birdlife. So, if visiting this UNESCO park is of interest to you, make sure to book flights to Jorhat or Guwahati, and drive to Kaziranga National Park for an awe-inspiring vacation.