Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Assam

Encountering a wild creature in its natural habitat can be an incredibly enriching experience for travellers. Wildlife observation is an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. There are destinations worldwide that draw wildlife enthusiasts, and Assam is undoubtedly one of them. Assam stands out as a premier biodiversity hotspot, thanks to the presence of the Himalayan foothills and the Brahmaputra River.

Assam’s wildlife is characterized by its rich variety of landscapes, flora, avian species, and fauna. Thanks to its favorable climate, Assam is home to numerous unique wildlife species, such as the Pygmy hog, found exclusively in this region. The state also boasts a range of rare wildlife species, including wild water buffalos, hoolock gibbons, hog deer, magnificent one-horned rhinoceroses, and Ganges dolphins.

In addition to Indian tigers, Indian leopards, clouded leopards, and melanistic leopards, Assam houses more than 450 diverse bird species, five distinct deer species within its biodiversity zone, and an abundance of herbivores. Some of Assam’s renowned wildlife sanctuaries encompass Kaziranga, Manas, Pobitora, Nameri, Dibru-Saikhowa, and many others.  

Here’s a curated list of Seven must-visit wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Assam:

1. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, spanning an expansive 800 square kilometers, is a beloved wildlife sanctuary. Within its boundaries, one can frequently encounter a wide array of birds and various wildlife species freely inhabiting the dry deciduous forest, rugged terrain, and dense thickets. However, the park’s primary drawcard remains its magnificent rhinoceros population. To explore all the corners of this park, visitors commonly employ jeeps as their preferred mode of transportation.

Highlights: Indian rhinoceroses, diverse birdlife, and lush landscapes.

Best Time to Visit: November to April (Closed during monsoon)

How to Reach: Jorhat’s Rowriah Airport (96 km)

2. Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled within a modest 37-square-kilometer expanse, this sanctuary is cocooned amidst verdant foliage and sparkling azure waterbodies that glisten like treasures. Within its boundaries, a diverse array of wildlife finds its refuge, including the regal Royal Bengal Tiger, which happens to be India’s national animal. Apart from the enchanting Nambor hot springs, Goram Pani stands out as one of the sanctuary’s foremost attractions.

Highlights: Royal Bengal Tigers, picturesque hot springs, and diverse wildlife.

Best Time to Visit: November to April

How to Reach: Dimapur Airport (55 km), Jorhat Airport (85 km)

3. Dibru Saikhowa National Park

Dibru Saikhowa National Park, nestled in the heart of the Assamese plains, is a sanctuary for numerous endangered plant and animal species. This unique park is a haven for endemic bird species and holds a distinguished position as one of the world’s 19 biodiversity hotspots. Situated just 12 kilometers north of Tinsukia, it comprises seven distinct sections, including a marshy terrain and expansive grasslands interwoven with dense forests. Within this captivating landscape, visitors can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including Royal Bengal tigers, hoolock gibbons, leopards, wild water buffaloes, tigers, and majestic elephants. However, the true highlight of a boat ride through the park’s waterways is the opportunity to witness the enchanting Gangetic river dolphins, which stand as the park’s main attraction.

Highlights: Gangetic river dolphins, Royal Bengal tigers, and hoolock gibbons.

Best Time to Visit: November to April (Avoid monsoon)

How to Reach: Dibrugarh Airport (40 km)

4. Manas National Park

Manas National Park, a well-preserved gem in Assam, is renowned for its exceptional inhabitants, including the elusive red panda and the enchanting golden langur. Notably, it stands as the solitary tiger sanctuary in Assam. Within the confines of Manas National Park, you’ll encounter an impressive diversity of wildlife, with 450 bird species, 36 reptile species, 55 mammal species, and three amphibian species.

This remarkable park is home to a star-studded cast of wildlife, featuring the majestic Indian tiger, the imposing Indian rhinoceros, graceful Asian elephants, elusive leopards, sleek black panthers, Asian golden cats, alert barking deer, magnificent hornbills, elegant pelicans, and more. It proudly hosts the nation’s second-largest tiger population. Additionally, Manas is a vital refuge for endangered species like the golden langur and pygmy hog.

Highlights: Red pandas, golden langurs, tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, and more.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

How to Reach: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (145 km)

5. Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary

For those passionate about wildlife, the Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary offers a captivating experience amid its lush greenery and abundant fauna. Nestled in the awe-inspiring Himalayan landscape, this sanctuary’s natural beauty defies description. Within its boundaries, you’ll encounter elusive creatures like clouded leopards, white-winged wood ducks, and golden langurs, all of which are rare and treasured residents. Additionally, a plethora of avian species, along with pygmy hogs and hispid hares, eagerly await your discovery within this sanctuary.

Highlights: Clouded leopards, white-winged wood ducks, and golden langurs.

Best Time to Visit: November to April (Moderate climate)

How to Reach: Guwahati Airport (150 km), Mangaldoi (Nearest railhead)

6. Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary

Enveloped in verdant foliage and adorned with captivating water elements, this picturesque bird sanctuary nestled within Deepor Beel is acclaimed as the premier avian haven in the region. Boasting an impressive array of more than 120 bird species, visitors have the opportunity to catch glimpses of majestic kingfishers, majestic eagles, and graceful ducks.

Highlights: Over 120 bird species, including kingfishers and eagles.

Best Time to Visit: November to March (Migratory bird season)

How to Reach: Guwahati Airport (20 km)

7. Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary

One of Assam’s premier wildlife sanctuaries can be found in the regions of Dhubri and Kokrajhar. This wildlife reserve is an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts. After a scenic hike through the Chakrashila Hills, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the golden langur, a species teetering on the brink of endangerment. In the vicinity, both Beel and Diplai Beel Lakes provide a habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including Indian flying foxes, Chinese pangolins, rhesus macaques, Indian pipistrelles, Bengal foxes, Asiatic jackals, and hornbills.

Highlights: Endangered golden langurs and various wildlife species.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

How to Reach: Kokrajhar town (6 km), Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (219 km)

With its varied topography, Assam’s wildlife sanctuaries and national parks promise memorable encounters with some of India’s most iconic and endangered species. Whether you’re a nature lover, birdwatcher, or adventure seeker, these destinations offer a chance to connect with the wild like never before. Plan your trip to Assam and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of its natural wonders.

Author: Jaun Shahi