Kaziranga National Park in the North-Eastern state of Assam is a world heritage site. All those who have thought Indian one-horned rhinoceros only existed in Jurassic-era, then a trip to Kaziranga is a must for them. One of the most sought after wildlife holiday destinations in India, Kaziranga National park’s 430 square kilometer area sprinkled with elephant-grass meadows, swampy lagoons, and dense forests are home to more than 2200 Indian one-horned rhinoceros, approximately 2/3rd of their total world population.
Kaziranga National Park is located at a place named Kanchanjuri which is at a distance of 193 km from Guwahati. It takes about 4 hours to reach Kaziranga so it is better to start early in the morning by 8 AM. On the way, you will cross the capital city of Dispur, Nagaon, and finally, reach your destination. The park is also the breeding ground of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Over time, the tiger population has also increased in Kaziranga, and that’s the reason why Kaziranga was declared as Tiger Reserve in 2006.
View of the Rhinos through binoculars
On your way, you will see a few points where you get binoculars on rent for just Rs. 10 /- each gets a glance of these huge mammals from a distance. You can also spot a few deer grazing in the distant grasses. This will increase your excitement and make you eager to reach your hotel. Check in to your cottages and get ready for the evening Jeep Safari after a quick lunch.
Hotel Recommendation: Dhanashree Resort
Beautiful view at Resort in Kaziranga
The Jeep Safari takes you to all the four zones of the park which are the Bagori Zone, Kohora Zone, Agaratoli Zone, and Burapahar Zone. As you drive deep in the jungle, you will see small herds of deer, elephants bathing in the small ponds and hear the beautiful birds chirping. Beware not to step down from your jeep other than the designated points as the beasts might just be hiding in the bushes ready to feast on you 😛
The Winding Roads
Wooden Bridge in the middle of the Jungle
Elephants enjoying an afternoon shower
Our GYPSY!!
The Jeep Safari takes about 2.5 – 3 hours with tall wooden watchtowers built at various towers. Say Hello to the forest dwellers and enjoy the ride. While returning, you can shop for wooden miniatures of rhino, deep, hornbill, etc.
Jeep Safari Cost: Rs. 3600/- per Jeep (5-6 people)
Online booking site: www.kaziranganationalpark-india.com/
Return from a memorable ride and refresh yourself with some much-needed snacks. In the evening, get ready to view and move your feet to the soulful Assamese folk songs and Bihu Dance at the Kaziranga Sandhya – Euphoric Cultural Extravaganza of Assam program. Graceful dancers are performing to the melodious songs sung by local singers. After about 45 minutes, you can also join the performers and enjoy yourself.
Cultural Programme Cost: Rs. 100/- per head
Bihu Dance
After an adventurous day, return to the hotel and rest for the night. The next day starts with a thrilling Elephant Safari through the Kohora Zone and Bagori Zone in the National Park. Reach the designated point at 5 AM in the wee hours of the morning after a short drive. You’ll see a herd of Elephants waiting to mount you on their back and take you on an early morning tour.
The Giant Playfully offering its trunk
Get on to your favorite one and set off to an offbeat ride in the deep jungle. These elephants are quite naughty and are fond of green leaves and bushes and try to halt at every opportunity to eat some. As you move towards the interiors, you can see more Rhinos and deer running around. Stop for a while and watch them move freely on their homeland. If you are lucky enough, you will even spot a tiger, but it is a very rare sight. Chat with the Mahout (elephant trainer) during the ride to understand the insights of Kaziranga and its dwellers. After almost an hour of an exhilarating ride, return and say goodbye to the lovely creatures here.
Elephant Safari Cost: Rs. 1500/- per head (max. 4 adults can ride on one elephant), online booking available
Get energized and start on your return journey even if your heart doesn’t want to leave the serenity. Make sure you click a few memories in the alluring surroundings before you leave.
Stop by one of the Famous Tea Gardens and view the lush green tea plantation on your way back to Guwahati. This will give you the real feel of Assam.
This two day trip to the Kaziranga National Park will bring you very close to nature. It has been rightly said:
“Kaziranga excites the senses, arrests the soul. It beckons a visit”
