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Description
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers an area of approximately 430 square kilometers. The park is famous for hosting the largest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Kaziranga also supports a variety of other wildlife, including tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, and numerous deer and bird species. Its diverse landscape of alluvial grasslands, tropical forests, and numerous beels (wetlands) created by the Brahmaputra River makes it a critical habitat for many globally threatened species. For migratory birds, the peak season is December to February. Note that the park is closed from May to October due to monsoon flooding.
Kaziranga National Park is divided into four main ranges, and a special forest area, each offering distinct sightings:
1 Eastern Range (Agoratoli): Widely considered the best zone for birding. Its proximity to the Brahmaputra River and numerous wetlands makes it a hotspot for migratory waterfowl, pelicans, and storks.
2 Central Range (Kohora): Offers a mix of grasslands and forests. Good for spotting Hornbills, Eagles, and Storks.
3 Western Range (Bagori): Best known for close-up rhino sightings, but also excellent for water birds like the Bar-headed Goose.
4 Burapahar Range (Ghorakati): A peaceful, hilly zone ideal for forest birds and sightings of the Hoolock Gibbon.
5 Panbari Forest: A specialized "Birding Safari" site near the park, known for rare forest species. It recently re-opened in February 2025 with strictly limited vehicle access and mandatory guides.
Details
Access
Kaziranga National Park is located in the northeastern Indian state of Assam, stretching across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River in the Golaghat, Nagaon, and Sonitpur districts. The main tourist hub and entrance gate are situated in the small town of Kohora (6), located directly on National Highway 37 (now NH 715).
Getting to Kaziranga typically involves reaching a major gateway city like Guwahati or Jorhat and then completing the journey by road.
By Air: Jorhat Airport (JRH): The closest airport, located approximately 97 km (60 miles) away. It is a roughly 2-hour drive to the park. Guwahati International Airport (GAU): The most convenient for national and international travelers, located about 217–245 km away. From the airport, it is a 4.5 to 5-hour drive. Tezpur Airport: Approximately 60–80 km from the park, though it has limited flight connectivity.
By Rail: Furkating Junction: The nearest railway station, located about 75–80 km away. It is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. Jakhalabandha: A closer station (about 20 km or 1 hour away) that receives local passenger trains from Guwahati. Guwahati Railway Station: While further away (240 km), it serves as the major railhead for the Northeast and has frequent onward road transport.
By Road: Bus Services: State-owned (ASTC) and private buses run regularly between Guwahati, Tezpur, Jorhat, and Upper Assam, stopping at the Kohora main gate. Private Taxis/Cabs: Can be hired from Guwahati (approx. ₹4,000–₹6,000 per day) or Jorhat for a more direct and flexible trip. Self-Drive: The park is easily accessible via NH 37, which is generally well-maintained.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Plain , Grassland , Scattered trees and bushes , RiverConditions
Wet , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
WinterBest time to visit
WinterRoute
Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
CarBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
Birding is primarily done via Jeep Safaris, which allow for more flexibility and time for photography. Hiring a specialist birding guide is highly recommended. Local experts are noted for their knowledge of avian species and movements.