Dibru Saikhowa National Park – Assam’s Wild Treasure Of Biodiversity And Natural Beauty

Situated between the mighty Brahmaputra, Lohit, and Dibru Rivers, the park stands as one of the 19 biodiversity hotspots of the world, offering spectacular views of riverine landscapes and swamp forests. The area’s lush vegetation supports an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including many rare and endangered species.

The park’s main attraction lies in its unique feral horses, believed to be descendants of cavalry horses abandoned after World War II. Equally captivating is the presence of the white-winged wood duck, one of the world’s rarest avian species, often found in the dense forest patches and swampy wetlands.

Wildlife in Dibru Saikhowa National Park

The park shelters over 36 species of mammals, 350+ bird species, 8 species of turtles, and 62 varieties of fish. Among the key wildlife species found here are:

• Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Jungle Cat

• Hoolock Gibbon, Slow Loris, Capped Langur, Assamese Macaque

• Asiatic Elephant, Wild Boar, Hog Deer, Sambar Deer

• Gangetic Dolphin, Chinese Pangolin, Malayan Giant Squirrel

• Wild Water Buffalo, Dhole, Sloth Bear, and many others

Birdwatchers are drawn to Dibru Saikhowa for its rich avifauna, which includes the white-winged wood duck, greater adjutant stork, Bengal florican, black-breasted parrotbill, Pallas’s fish eagle, and bar-headed goose.

Flora and Landscape

The vegetation here is a combination of semi-evergreen, moist deciduous, and swamp forests, interspersed with large stretches of grasslands. The park also houses the largest salix swamp forest in Northeast India. Key plant species include Bombax ceiba, Dillenia indica, Mesua ferrea, Ficus, and Lagerstroemia parviflora.

Best Time to Visit Dibru Saikhowa National Park

The ideal time to visit Dibru Saikhowa National Park is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant, dry, and favorable for wildlife exploration and boating. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

Entry Timings and Fees

• Entry Time: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM (No entry after sunset)

• Entry Fees: ₹100 for Indian visitors, ₹500 for foreign tourists (approximate)

• Camera Fees: ₹50 for still camera, ₹200 for video camera

• Guide Fee: ₹300 per trip (mandatory for eco-tourism regulation)

Note: Entry is permitted only with written permission from the park authorities. Night halts, picnicking, and open fires are prohibited inside the park.

How to Reach Dibru Saikhowa National Park

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport (Mohanbari), located around 40 km from Tinsukia.

• By Rail: Tinsukia Railway Station and Dibrugarh Railway Station are the nearest railheads, well-connected to Guwahati and major Indian cities.

• By Road: The park can be accessed from Tinsukia (12 km to Guijan Ghat) and Saikhowa Ghat (50 km). Regular buses, taxis, and shared cabs operate from Tinsukia.

Where to Stay at Dibru Saikhowa National Park

• Forest Inspection Bungalow, Guijan – managed by the forest department (advance booking needed)

• Eco Lodges & Homestays – available near Guijan and Dighali Beel areas

• Hotels in Tinsukia – several budget and mid-range options for travelers

Travel Tips

• Always carry binoculars and a camera for birdwatching.

• Hire a local guide for safe exploration.

• Avoid littering or disturbing wildlife.

Dibru Saikhowa National Park truly exemplifies Assam’s commitment to nature conservation — a magical destination where the harmony of rivers, forests, and wildlife creates an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Dibru Saikhowa National Park Quick Info Table

FAQs on Dibru Saikhowa National Park

1. Where is Dibru Saikhowa National Park located?
   It is situated in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Upper Assam, about 12 km north of Tinsukia town.

2. What is Dibru Saikhowa National Park famous for?
   It is renowned for its feral horses, white-winged wood duck, and rich birdlife across its wetlands and forests.

3. When is the best time to visit Dibru Saikhowa National Park?
   The ideal time is between November and April when the weather is pleasant and suitable for safaris and boating.

4. How can I reach Dibru Saikhowa National Park?
   The nearest airport is Dibrugarh (40 km), and the nearest railway station is Tinsukia. The park is accessible by road via Guijan or Saikhowa Ghat.

5. What is the entry fee for Dibru Saikhowa National Park?
   Around ₹100 for Indian visitors and ₹500 for foreign tourists, excluding guide and camera charges.

6. Are there accommodations near Dibru Saikhowa?
   Yes, visitors can stay at the Guijan Forest Inspection Bungalow or nearby eco lodges and hotels in Tinsukia.

7. Which animals are found in Dibru Saikhowa National Park?
   It is home to tigers, elephants, hoolock gibbons, leopards, wild boars, and Gangetic dolphins.

8. Is boating allowed in Dibru Saikhowa National Park?
   Yes, eco-friendly boat rides and river safaris are organized under forest department guidelines.

9. Is Dibru Saikhowa a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
   No, but it is a recognized Biosphere Reserve and one of India’s important biodiversity hotspots.

10. Can visitors explore the park without permission?
    No, entry is strictly regulated and allowed only with written permission from the park authorities.