Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam’s Rhino Paradise Near Guwahati

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam’s Rhino Paradise Near Guwahati

Located just 60 kilometers from Guwahati, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a renowned wildlife destination in the Morigaon district of Assam. Situated in the mystical village of Mayong, known for its folklore and magic, this sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot and a major stronghold for the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

Just a 2-hour drive from Guwahati, Pobitora is one of the easiest and most rewarding wildlife getaways in Northeast India.

About the Sanctuary

Covering a total area of 38.8 sq. km, only 16 sq. km is effective rhino habitat. Despite its small size, Pobitora boasts the highest density of one-horned rhinoceroses in the world, with more than 80 individuals roaming freely.

  • Declared Reserved Forest: 1971

  • Declared Wildlife Sanctuary: 1987

  • Landscape: Flat floodplains of the Brahmaputra with a scenic hillock called Raja Mayong

Wildlife at Pobitora

Pobitora is primarily famous for its Indian One-Horned Rhinos, but it also shelters a rich variety of other species:

Mammals

  • Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros

  • Asiatic Buffalo

  • Leopard

  • Wild Boar

  • Civet Cat

  • Jackal

Birds

  • Over 2000 migratory birds during winter

  • Resident birds including kingfishers, herons, and various waders

Reptiles

  • Various snakes and marshland reptiles

  • Turtles, including softshell varieties

Vegetation & Landscape

Pobitora’s unique hilly terrain and floodplain geography result in diverse vegetation zones. Lush green fields, swampy grasslands, and scattered coconut trees characterize the landscape, making it a striking blend of wild and serene.

Rhino Overpopulation & Conservation Efforts

Due to overpopulation, Pobitora has exceeded its rhino-carrying capacity, causing rhinos to move beyond sanctuary boundaries in search of food—raising the risks of human-wildlife conflict and disease transmission from domestic animals.

To address this, under the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV 2020)—a joint conservation effort by the Assam Forest Department, WWF India, International Rhino Foundation, and US Fish & Wildlife Service—eight rhinos were successfully translocated from Pobitora to Manas National Park between 2008 and 2011.

Best Time to Visit

November to March is the best season to visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. The weather is pleasant, migratory birds flock in large numbers, and rhino sightings are highly likely during this period.

How to Reach Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

By Road

  • 60 km from Guwahati

  • Around 2 hours’ drive from the city via Chandrapur or Narengi route

  • Easily accessible by taxi, bus, or private car

By Rail

  • Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati

  • Well-connected to all major Indian cities

  • From the station, local transport or taxis can take you to the sanctuary

By Air

  • Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati)

  • From the airport, hire a taxi or use pre-booked transport to reach Pobitora

Accommodation Options

Though Pobitora itself has limited lodging, nearby Guwahati offers a wide range of luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels. For travelers seeking convenience and comfort:

  • Try hotels in Paltan Bazar, Panbazar, or Ganeshguri

  • Don’t miss local Assamese cuisine, especially fish-based delicacies available at affordable rates

Whom to Contact for Visiting Pobitora

A)
Divisional Forest Officer
Guwahati Wildlife Division, Guwahati – 781009
Tel: 0361-2550207 (Residence), 09435031789 (Mobile)

B)
Range Officer
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Mayong, Dist. Morigaon
Tel: 03678-248157 (Office)

Why Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?

  • See the densest population of one-horned rhinos in the world

  • Experience the mystical culture of Mayong village

  • Spot rare birds and enjoy peaceful wetlands

  • Perfect short wildlife trip from Guwahati

  • Involvement in active conservation programs

Final Thoughts

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a true gem of Assam’s conservation success. With stunning wildlife, easy accessibility, and scenic charm, it’s one of the most rewarding wildlife destinations in India. Whether you're a weekend traveler or a wildlife enthusiast, Pobitora promises memories that will last a lifetime.

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