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Kaziranga Boat Safari On Brahmaputra River – Price, Timings, Wildlife & Booking Guide.

Kaziranga Boat Safari On Brahmaputra River – Price, Timings, Wildlife & Booking Guide. - General Knowledge of Assam
Kaziranga National Park in Assam is world-famous for its one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal tigers, and lush floodplains of the Brahmaputra River. While most visitors know about jeep safaris and elephant rides, few realize that boat safaris on the Brahmaputra River offer a unique and peaceful way to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.


1. Overview – Kaziranga Boat Safari Experience

Yes, you can absolutely do a boat safari in Kaziranga National Park. Conducted mainly on the Brahmaputra River and Dhansiri River, these safaris give visitors a rare opportunity to view wildlife from the water. Unlike jeep or elephant safaris that explore the park’s core areas, boat safaris are conducted outside the core zone, offering a more serene and eco-friendly perspective of the park’s ecosystem.

2. Main Boat Safari Locations in Kaziranga

There are two primary boat safari zones in and around Kaziranga:

Agoratoli Range Boat Safari

  • Located on the eastern side of Kaziranga, near the confluence of the Dhansiri and Brahmaputra Rivers.

  • Offers an hour-long cruise through a quiet, less touristy section of the park.

  • Excellent for birdwatching, dolphin spotting, and viewing rhinos, elephants, and tigers from the riverbank.

  • Recommended as a complement to jeep or elephant safaris.

Bhomoraguri Boat Safari (Nagaon Wildlife Division)

  • Situated around 30 km from the Burapahar range.

  • Operated by the Nagaon Wildlife Division, focusing on river tourism and local livelihood.

  • Offers chances to spot Gangetic River Dolphins, swamp deer, Asiatic water buffalo, and sometimes even tigers.

  • Routes range from 5–12 km, with popular spots near the Koliabhumura Bridge and extended routes reaching the Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary.

3. Wildlife You Can See in Kaziranga by Boat

Boat safaris in Kaziranga offer wildlife encounters you won’t get elsewhere:

  • Gangetic River Dolphin: The highlight of the boat safari; these endangered mammals are often spotted playfully surfacing in the Brahmaputra.

  • Rhinos and Elephants: Commonly seen grazing along the riverbanks.

  • Royal Bengal Tiger: Occasionally spotted cooling off near the water during summer.

  • Migratory Birds: Agoratoli range is heaven for bird lovers—see pelicans, egrets, storks, and kingfishers.

  • Deer and Buffalo: Often seen crossing shallow water or grazing in riverine grasslands.

4. Advantages of Exploring Kaziranga by Boat

  1. Unique Wildlife Angle: View animals from the water—a totally different perspective than land safaris.

  2. Dolphin Sightings: The only safari type where you can see Gangetic River Dolphins.

  3. Peaceful and Non-Intrusive: Boat safaris are quiet and minimize disturbance to wildlife.

  4. Perfect for Photography: Capture panoramic shots of wildlife against the backdrop of the Brahmaputra.

  5. Less Crowded: Compared to jeep safaris, boat safaris offer a more exclusive experience.

5. Boat Safari Duration and Cost in Kaziranga

  • Average Duration: Around 1 hour to 1.5 hours.

  • Cost: Varies by boat and operator.

    • Standard country boats: ₹2,000–₹2,600 per trip (for 2–4 persons).

    • Speed boats or private hires may cost ₹3,000–₹5,000 depending on distance and duration.

  • Safari cost covers boat rental, guide, and safety equipment.

6. How to Book a Boat Safari in Kaziranga

Boat safaris in Kaziranga can be booked through local tour operators, eco camps, or online travel portals.

  • Official Permission: Required from the Kaziranga Forest Department or Nagaon Wildlife Division.

  • Advance Booking: Recommended during the peak season (November–April).

  • Online Platforms: Some travel sites like https://kaziranganationalparkassam.in/river-cruise-kaziranga or kaziranga-national-park.com allow online requests.

    Whom to contact for a visit to Kaziranga National Park?

    For Assistance: The Range Officer, Kaziranga Range, Kohora, Tel.: (03776)262428, The Range Officer, Western Range, Baguri, Tel.: (03672)283463, The Range Officer, Eastern Range, Agoratoli, Tel.: (03776)268032, The Range Officer, Burapahar Range, Ghorakati, Tel.: (03672)279012.

    For Information: The Director, Kaziranga National Park, P.O .Bokakhat ,Dist .Golaghat, Tel.: (03776)268095(O), 268086(R) Fax: 268095, E-mail: unicornis@sancharnet.in, Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, P.O. Bokakhat, Dist. Golaghat, Tel.: (03776)268007 (O) 268041 (R), ACF & WLRO Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, PO.Bokakhat, Dist. Golaghat, Tel.: (03776)268007 (O).

7. Best Time for Boat Safari in Kaziranga by Boat

The ideal time is November to April, during the park’s open season.

  • The river remains calm, wildlife is visible near the banks, and bird migration peaks.

  • Avoid monsoon months (May–October) due to flooding and strong currents.

8. Combine Safaris for Full Experience

To experience all aspects of Kaziranga’s ecosystem, plan a combo safari:

  • Morning: Elephant Safari (Bagori Range)

  • Midday: Jeep Safari (Central or Western Range)

  • Evening: Boat Safari (Agoratoli or Bhomoraguri)

This combination ensures you see animals on land, water, and in the air.

9. Eco-Tourism and Local Benefits

Boat safaris are part of Kaziranga’s eco-tourism initiative, promoting sustainable travel and creating employment opportunities for local boatmen and guides. It’s a responsible way to enjoy the park while supporting the community.

10. Safety and Guidelines for Kaziranga Safari by Boat

  • Life jackets are mandatory for all passengers.

  • Avoid standing or leaning during the ride.

  • Follow the forest department’s instructions strictly.

  • Do not feed or disturb wildlife.

Conclusion

A boat safari in Kaziranga National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure, tranquility, and wildlife observation in one journey. Cruising along the Brahmaputra River, you’ll witness the breathtaking beauty of Assam and get closer to some of India’s rarest species. Whether it’s spotting the graceful dolphins or watching a rhino grazing on the riverbank, the view from the boat gives you a whole new appreciation for Kaziranga’s magic.

FAQs with concise answers

1. Can I do a boat safari in Kaziranga?
Yes, boat safaris are available on the Brahmaputra and Dhansiri Rivers, outside the core park area.

2. Where are boat safaris conducted in Kaziranga?
Mainly at Agoratoli and Bhomoraguri ranges.

3. What animals can I see during the boat safari?
You can see Gangetic dolphins, rhinos, elephants, tigers, and various migratory birds.

4. How much does a boat safari cost?
Prices range from ₹2,000–₹2,600 per boat for a one-hour ride.

5. How long does the safari last?
Usually 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the route.

6. What is the best time for a boat safari?
From November to April, when the park is open and river levels are safe.

7. Is it safe to do a boat safari in Kaziranga?
Yes, all safaris follow safety norms, and life jackets are provided.

8. Can I book the boat safari online?
Yes, via operators like Kajaawa, kaziranga-national-park.com, or local eco camps.

9. Are dolphins visible during the safari?
Yes, spotting Gangetic River Dolphins is one of the main attractions.

10. Can I combine boat and jeep safaris in one day?
Yes, many tourists do a jeep safari in the morning and boat safari in the evening.