Kaziranga National Park Travel Guide: Safari, Ticket Price & Best Time to Visit
Located on the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga National Park is one of India's most iconic wildlife destinations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, the park is globally famous for conserving the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Nearly two-thirds of the world's population of this rare species lives here.
Established in 1905 and spread across approximately 430 sq km, Kaziranga attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually. During 2024–25 alone, around 351,146 tourists explored the park, reinforcing its status as one of the top wildlife tourism destinations in Northeast India.
If you are planning your visit in 2026, here is everything you need to know.
Why Visit Kaziranga National Park?
Kaziranga is not just about rhinos. The park is home to the Big Five of Assam:
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One-horned rhinoceros
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Bengal tiger
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Asian elephant
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Wild water buffalo
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Swamp deer
With over 500 bird species, including migratory birds, Kaziranga is also a paradise for birdwatchers.
The landscape varies dramatically from tall elephant grasslands and marshlands to tropical forests, creating diverse habitats that support rich biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park
The park remains open from November to April and stays closed during the monsoon season due to flooding.
Winter (November to February) – Peak Season
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Weather: Cool and dry
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Ideal for wildlife sightings
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Migratory birds arrive
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Higher tourist footfall
Temperatures remain pleasant, making safaris more comfortable and increasing chances of spotting rhinos and tigers.
Spring (March to April)
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Slightly warmer but still suitable
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Lush greenery
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Good wildlife visibility
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Fewer crowds compared to peak winter
Monsoon (May to October)
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Heavy rainfall and flooding
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Park remains closed
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Limited accessibility
To maximize your safari experience, plan between November and February.
Safari Details & Timings
Safaris generally operate between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM, divided into morning and afternoon slots.
Jeep Safari Cost
Typically ranges from INR 1,500 to INR 3,500 per jeep, depending on:
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Safari zone
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Nationality
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Season
Charges may vary, so confirm current rates with official park authorities before booking.
Elephant safaris are also available in select zones and offer a closer wildlife viewing experience.
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues at entry gates.
Safari Zones in Kaziranga
The park is divided into four primary ranges, each offering a unique experience:
Central Range (Kohora)
Best overall zone for rhino, elephant, and tiger sightings. It is the most popular and busiest range.
Western Range (Bagori)
Excellent for close-up rhino encounters and elephant herds near the Brahmaputra.
Eastern Range (Agaratoli)
Ideal for birdwatching, migratory species, and scenic wetlands.
Burapahar Range
Known for birding, trekking opportunities, and hilly forest landscapes. Less crowded compared to other zones.
Each zone offers distinct terrain and wildlife patterns, so choosing the right one enhances your experience.
How to Reach Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga is well connected to Guwahati, the capital of Assam.
By Road (Recommended)
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Distance from Guwahati Railway Station: Approx. 240 km
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Travel time: 4–5 hours
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Route: NH-37 toward Kohora (central entry point)
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Bus fare: ₹380 to ₹950
Private taxis are available from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and Guwahati city.
By Train
Nearest railway station: Furkating (around 75 km away). Taxis are available from there.
By Air
Nearest major airport: Guwahati (GAU), well connected to major Indian cities.
Taxi Cost from Guwahati to Kaziranga
For a 2-day private hire taxi:
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Estimated cost: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000+
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Hatchback (one way): ₹3,800 to ₹4,000+
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SUV: Higher pricing
Safari charges are separate.
Park Authorities Contact Information
For updated pricing and official inquiries:
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Range Officer, Kaziranga Range, Kohora – +91 3776 262428
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Range Officer, Western Range, Bagori – +91 3672 283463
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Range Officer, Eastern Range, Agaratoli – +91 3776 268032
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Range Officer, Burapahar Range, Ghorakati – +91 3672 279012
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Director, Kaziranga National Park, Bokakhat – +91 3776 268095
Where to Stay in Kaziranga
Accommodation options include government lodges and private properties in Kohora and Bokakhat areas.
Some options include:
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Wildgrass Resort, Kohora – +91 3776 262085
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G.L. Resort, Burapahar – +91 3672 299823
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Dolphin Lodge, Bokakhat – +91 94350 95991
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Green Reed, Kohora – +91 3776 262417
Advance booking is recommended during peak season.
Important Safari Rules & Travel Tips
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Remain inside your vehicle at all times except designated areas.
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Follow instructions from forest guides.
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Carry binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
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Wear neutral-colored clothing.
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Book safaris at least 2–3 months in advance for winter visits.
Key Facts About Kaziranga
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Location: Assam, India
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Established: 1905
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Area: 430 sq km
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UNESCO Status: Since 1985
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Famous for: One-horned rhinoceros and tiger reserve
Final Thoughts
Kaziranga National Park remains the pride of Assam tourism. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher, or nature photographer, timing your visit correctly ensures unforgettable safari experiences across grasslands, wetlands, and forest ecosystems.
Plan wisely, book early, and experience one of India's greatest conservation success stories.
