Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, India, is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Known for its thriving population of the one-horned rhinoceros, the park spans across approximately 1,100 square kilometers of grassland, wetlands, and forest. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

How to Reach Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga is well connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, which is about 97 km from the park. Guwahati International Airport is also a good option, located 193 km away.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is at Furkating, which is 75 km away. Kaziranga is also accessible from Guwahati and Tezpur stations.
• By Road: Kaziranga is well connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from Guwahati or other nearby towns. National Highway 37 connects the park to major cities.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The weather in Kaziranga varies with seasons:

• Summer (March to May): The temperature can rise above 35°C, making it a good time for wildlife sightings as animals often come out for water.
• Monsoon (June to September): The park receives heavy rainfall, which may cause flooding and close the park for safaris. It's not recommended to visit during this season.
• Winter (November to February): This is the best time to visit Kaziranga, as the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are at their peak with cooler temperatures.

Why Kaziranga is Famous

Kaziranga is primarily famous for being home to the one-horned rhinoceros, a species that is critically endangered. The park harbors more than two-thirds of the world’s population of this majestic animal. Apart from the rhinoceros, Kaziranga is also home to tigers, elephants, wild buffaloes, and numerous species of birds, including migratory species. The park's vast wetlands and dense forests make it a unique blend of habitats for various wildlife.

Entry and Visit Details

Kaziranga National Park is open for visitors from November to April. The park has several entry gates, including:

• Central Range (Kohora): The most popular entry point for tourists, providing access to a majority of the park’s wildlife areas.
• Western Range (Bagori): Known for its scenic beauty and quieter atmosphere, offering jeep safaris.
• Eastern Range (Agoratoli): Ideal for bird watching and nature trails.

Entry tickets can be purchased at the respective entry points, and safaris are conducted daily from early morning to late afternoon. You can choose between jeep and elephant safaris.

Things to Do in Kaziranga

Aside from wildlife safaris, Kaziranga offers several activities for visitors:

• Elephant Safari: A unique way to explore the park, elephant safaris provide an up-close view of the rhinos and other animals in their natural habitat.
• Jeep Safari: Explore the park’s wildlife-rich zones on a guided jeep tour.
• Bird Watching: Kaziranga is home to over 500 species of birds, making it an ideal location for bird watchers.
• Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River to see river dolphins and scenic landscapes.

Facts and Tips About Kaziranga National Park

• The park was declared a sanctuary in 1905 and became a National Park in 1974.
• Kaziranga is one of the few places where you can spot all of the “Big Five” animals of India – the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, wild water buffalo, elephant, and swamp deer.
• Visitors are advised to wear light-colored clothing and sturdy shoes as the park involves some walking for safaris.
• Don’t forget to carry binoculars and cameras with zoom lenses for capturing distant animals.
• Respect the park’s rules, and avoid disturbing the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance during safaris.

Church of Our Lady, Bruges

The Church of Our Lady is located in Bruges, Belgium, and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and the famous Madonna and Child sculpture by Michelangelo. Although not directly related to Kaziranga, it is famous for its historical and architectural significance. The church is a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Kaziranga National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the pristine beauty of Assam’s biodiversity. Whether you're exploring the lush green landscape on an elephant safari or witnessing a majestic one-horned rhinoceros in the wild, the experience will stay with you forever.