Things to Do in Your Kaziranga Tour

Kaziranga National Park, located in the state of Assam, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s premier wildlife destinations. Famous for its population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, this vast sanctuary spans across 430 square kilometers of wetlands, forests, and grasslands. But there’s so much more to Kaziranga than just its rhinos. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, wild water buffaloes, and numerous bird species.

A trip to Kaziranga offers plenty of activities and sights for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. To make your Kaziranga National Park tour a memorable experience, here’s a list of must-do activities and attractions.

1. Jeep Safari: The Ultimate Wildlife Experience

One of the most thrilling ways to explore Kaziranga National Park is by embarking on a jeep safari. This is the most popular activity for visitors as it allows you to cover a large area of the park while observing the rich diversity of wildlife. Jeep safaris are available in four main zones of the park: Central, Western, Eastern, and Burapahar ranges. Each zone offers a unique experience in terms of terrain and wildlife sightings.

• Central Range (Kohora Zone): The most visited range, Kohora, offers great opportunities to spot the famous one-horned rhino, elephants, and even the elusive Bengal tiger. The vast grasslands of this range are perfect for catching sight of the animals grazing in their natural habitat.
• Western Range (Bagori Zone): Known for its rich water bodies and thick grasslands, the Bagori zone is another excellent spot for rhino sightings, as well as wild water buffalo and birdwatching.
• Eastern Range (Agoratoli Zone): If you’re a bird enthusiast, this is the range for you. The Eastern range is home to a variety of migratory birds, including pelicans, storks, and eagles. This zone is also great for spotting elephants.
• Burapahar Range: A lesser-known zone, Burapahar offers more off-the-beaten-path experiences, with a higher chance of spotting predators like leopards and tigers.

Jeep safaris are typically conducted twice a day—once in the early morning and again in the late afternoon—when wildlife is most active. Don’t forget to carry your camera, as Kaziranga offers plenty of photo opportunities, from close encounters with wildlife to stunning landscapes.

2. Elephant Safari: A Unique Perspective

For a more immersive experience, consider booking an elephant safari. Unlike the jeep safari, which covers larger distances, the elephant safari offers a closer view of the wildlife, particularly the one-horned rhino. Riding on the back of a trained elephant gives you the chance to navigate through the tall grasslands where vehicles cannot reach, providing a unique vantage point for observing animals in their natural environment.

Elephant safaris usually take place in the early morning hours when animals are more likely to be out in the open. The safari typically lasts for about an hour, allowing visitors to get up close with the park’s most famous inhabitants. The elephants themselves are gentle giants, and riding on them offers a memorable way to explore Kaziranga’s breathtaking landscapes.

3. Birdwatching: A Paradise for Avian Enthusiasts

Kaziranga National Park is a haven for bird lovers. The park’s wetlands, forests, and grasslands provide a perfect habitat for over 500 species of birds, both resident and migratory. Winter is the best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds from Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia flock to the park’s lakes and marshes.

Some of the most notable bird species you can spot in Kaziranga include:

• Great Indian Hornbill: Known for its large beak and colorful casque, this magnificent bird is a favorite among birdwatchers.
• Pallas's Fish Eagle: Often seen near water bodies, this majestic bird of prey is a regular sight in the park.
• Bengal Florican: An endangered species, the Bengal Florican can be spotted in the grasslands of Kaziranga.
• Migratory Birds: During the winter months, you can spot a variety of migratory species like the Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, and Grey-headed Fish Eagle.

The Eastern range of the park is particularly renowned for birdwatching, thanks to its wetlands that attract many water birds. You can also enjoy birdwatching by the banks of the Brahmaputra River, which forms the northern boundary of the park.

4. Visit the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park

Located near the entrance of Kaziranga National Park, the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The park is home to over 500 species of orchids, making it one of the largest orchid collections in India. In addition to orchids, the park also features a wide variety of medicinal plants, cane, bamboo, and ferns.

A visit to the park offers more than just botanical beauty—it also gives visitors an insight into the local Assamese culture. You can explore traditional Assamese village life through the displays of local handicrafts and watch folk dance performances organized by the park. The park also has a museum that showcases the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

5. Cruise on the Brahmaputra River

Kaziranga National Park is bordered by the mighty Brahmaputra River, which offers an excellent opportunity for a relaxing and scenic river cruise. The river is one of the longest in India, and cruising along its serene waters provides a unique perspective on the region’s landscape and wildlife.

During a river cruise, you can witness stunning views of the riverbanks, spot migratory birds, and sometimes even catch a glimpse of river dolphins playing in the water. Sunset cruises on the Brahmaputra are especially popular, as the golden hues of the setting sun create a magical ambiance. Some river cruises also offer traditional Assamese cuisine, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experience.

6. Explore Tea Gardens Around Kaziranga

Assam is world-famous for its tea, and your Kaziranga tour would be incomplete without a visit to the region’s lush tea gardens. Many tea estates are located in the vicinity of the park, offering visitors a chance to explore the process of tea production, from plucking the tea leaves to their processing in factories.

• Hathikuli Tea Estate: This is one of the largest tea estates near Kaziranga and is known for producing organic tea. A visit here gives you insight into the eco-friendly practices used in organic tea farming. You can also purchase fresh Assam tea directly from the estate.

Taking a guided tour of a tea plantation is a great way to unwind after an exciting day of wildlife safaris. Walking through the verdant tea fields with the backdrop of the Assam hills is a refreshing and peaceful experience.

7. Cultural Performances and Local Cuisine

While Kaziranga is famous for its wildlife, it also offers an opportunity to experience the rich culture of Assam. Many resorts and lodges near the park organize cultural performances showcasing traditional Assamese music and dance forms like Bihu.

• Bihu Dance: The Bihu dance is one of Assam’s most popular folk dances and is performed during the harvest festival. The energetic dance, accompanied by drums and traditional instruments, is a joyous celebration of life and nature.
• Local Cuisine: While in Kaziranga, don’t miss the opportunity to savor Assamese cuisine. Dishes like Assamese thali, pithas (rice cakes), and masor tenga (a sour fish curry) are must-try delicacies. Many resorts also offer traditional Assamese meals, which give visitors a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

8. Visit the Karbi Anglong Hills

Located to the south of Kaziranga, the Karbi Anglong Hills offer a completely different experience from the flat plains of the park. These hills are part of a protected forest area and are home to diverse flora and fauna. If you’re looking for more adventure after your wildlife safari, you can plan a trip to these hills for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring tribal villages.

The hills are less crowded than the main Kaziranga park, providing a quieter and more serene experience. The local Karbi tribe, from whom the hills get their name, has a unique culture and tradition. Visiting their villages offers insight into their way of life and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Kaziranga National Park is much more than a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a treasure trove of experiences, from jeep and elephant safaris to birdwatching, cultural performances, and river cruises. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape in nature, a Kaziranga National Park tour offers something for everyone. Exploring the surrounding tea gardens, interacting with local culture, and enjoying the park’s serene landscapes will leave you with unforgettable memories of this beautiful part of India.