Raimona National Park – History, Wildlife, Location, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit & Complete Travel Guide

Spread across 422 sq. km, Raimona forms an important part of the Eastern Himalayan foothills, sharing boundaries with Bhutan’s Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and West Bengal’s Buxa Tiger Reserve. Together, these forested regions create a massive conservation corridor of over 2,400 sq. km, making it one of India’s most ecologically significant landscapes.

History & Formation of the National Park

Before being declared a national park, the region was part of the Ripu Reserve Forest—a major elephant habitat within the Ripu-Chirang Elephant Reserve. Its rich wildlife population, especially Asian elephants, gaur (Indian bison), and the endangered golden langur, highlighted the need for stronger conservation measures. Recognizing its ecological importance, the Assam government upgraded the area to a national park in 2021. The official notification was published in the Assam Gazette on 8 June 2021.

Geography & Landscape

Raimona is located at the southern foothills of the Eastern Himalaya. The Sankosh River forms the western boundary along the Assam–West Bengal border, while the Saralbhanga River marks the northern and eastern boundaries. Forest ranges include:

• Athiabari Range

• Sanfan Range

• Kochugaon Central Range

• Raimona Range (Western Range)

The park’s elevation varies from 85 to 1,042 meters, offering diverse habitats such as riverine forests, grasslands, semi-evergreen forests, and tropical moist deciduous vegetation.

Flora – A Haven of Greenery

Raimona National Park is home to an impressive 380 species of plants and orchids. Thick bamboo groves, sal forests, cane vegetation, and subtropical flora dominate the landscape. The park's lush vegetation supports rich wildlife, making it an important biodiversity hotspot.

Fauna – Wildlife & Signature Species

Raimona National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the key species found here include:

Mammals

• Golden Langur (the flagship species of BTR)

• Asian Elephant

• Bengal Tiger

• Clouded Leopard

• Himalayan Black Bear

• Chinese Pangolin

• Dhole (Wild Dog)

• Assam Macaque & Rhesus Macaque

• Gaur (Indian Bison)

• Sambar, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Chital

• Hispid Hare and Himalayan Serow

• Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, and Asian Golden Cat

Birdlife

Raimona is recognized as an Important Bird & Biodiversity Area (IBA). The park shelters more than 260 recorded bird species, including:

• White-bellied Heron (very rare)

• Great Pied Hornbill

• Wreathed Hornbill

• Oriental Darter

• Slender-billed Vulture

• Indian Peafowl

• Mountain Imperial Pigeon

• Red-breasted Parakeet

• Black Baza & Jerdon’s Baza

• Collared Falconet

• Hill Myna

• Ibisbill (rare sighting)

The vibrant avifauna makes the park popular among birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.

Best Time to Visit Raimona National Park

The park remains closed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and difficult terrain.

Ideal time to visit:

October to April (pleasant climate, high wildlife visibility)

Safari timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM

• Afternoon: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

How to Reach Raimona National Park

Nearest Airport: Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) – 253 km

Nearest Railway Station: Kokrajhar Railway Station – 53 km

By Road : Well connected from: Kokrajhar, Gossaigaon, Bongaigaon, Guwahati (via NH-27 and NH-31) 

Regular buses, shared taxis, and private vehicles provide easy access to the park.

Entry Fees & Safari Charges (Subject to Change)

• Indian Visitors: ₹100 per person

• Foreigners: ₹500 per person

• Jeep Safari: ₹2,500 per vehicle (includes driver + guide)

• Camera Charges:

  • Still: ₹100

  • Video: ₹500

• A forest guard accompanies visitors for safety due to elephant presence.

Ecotourism & Local Community Involvement

Raimona National Park is managed with active support from the Raimona Golden Langur Ecotourism Society (RGES). Local communities are involved in sustainable tourism, promoting eco-friendly travel and livelihood opportunities.

Why Raimona National Park Should Be on Your Travel List

• Home to the iconic golden langur

• One of India’s richest biodiversity zones

• Peaceful, less crowded compared to Kaziranga

• Scenic Himalayan foothills, rivers & orchid-rich forests

• Excellent for birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and photography

Raimona is a perfect destination for nature lovers who seek untouched wilderness and an immersive forest experience.

Quick Info Table on Raimona National Park

Category	Information
Location	Kokrajhar District, Bodoland Territorial Region, Assam
Established	5 June 2021
Area	422 sq. km
Altitude	85m – 1042m
Famous For	Golden Langur, Elephants, Birds, Himalayan foothills
Nearest Airport	Guwahati Airport (253 km)
Nearest Railway Station	Kokrajhar (53 km)
Best Time to Visit	October to April
Safari Timings	6–11 AM & 2–5 PM
Entry Fee	₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
Safari Cost	₹2,500 per jeep (incl. guide)

FAQs on Raimona National Park

1. Where is Raimona National Park located?

Raimona National Park is located in the Kokrajhar district of Assam, under the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

2. Why is Raimona National Park famous?

It is famous for its population of golden langurs, Asian elephants, and pristine Eastern Himalayan forests.

3. What is the best time to visit Raimona National Park?

October to April is the ideal time for safaris and wildlife sightings.

4. What is the entry fee for Raimona National Park?

Entry costs ₹100 for Indians and ₹500 for foreign nationals.

5. Are safaris available in Raimona National Park?

Yes, jeep safaris are available with designated forest guides.

6. Which is the nearest airport to Raimona National Park?

Guwahati Airport is the nearest major airport, around 253 km away.

7. Is Raimona good for birdwatching?

Yes, Raimona is an Important Bird Area (IBA) with more than 260 bird species.

8. How big is Raimona National Park?

The park covers 422 sq. km of protected forest area.

9. Which animals can be seen in Raimona National Park?

Key species include golden langur, elephant, tiger, clouded leopard, gaur, hornbills, and Himalayan birds.

10. Is Raimona National Park safe to visit?

Yes, it is safe with guided safaris. A forest guard accompanies visitors for safety.