Viewing wildlife is as therapeutic as getting a massage. Think of it this way, it is an antidote to your mind from all the push and shove lifestyle we live in. Sure, we have zoos in the heart of all cities but there is nothing as authentic as actually being amidst nature and wildlife. And trust me, there is no better destination than Assam to get such an experience. Blessed with umpteen greenery, it is an absolute paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. If you’ve come to Assam seeking for a wildlife getaway, then my readers, I have got some delightful places for your entertainment.

Kaziranga National Park

Assam’s most renowned national park and a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, Kaziranga needs no introduction. It is home to the prehistoric-looking species, the one-horned rhinoceros, and a variety of wildlife that peacefully wander amid the beautiful meadows of Northeast India. With wildlife teeming before you, activities like elephant rides and jeep or canter safaris take only a few seconds to get booked for the tour. In order to get a memorable experience, there are tasteful eco-resorts in Kaziranga overlooking the forest or meadows. The resorts offer comfortable facilities and also a variety of activities to indulge in like hiking, birding, and more.

Travel Distance - Approx. 3 hours

Closest Airport - Jorhat Airport

Manas National Park

One factor that makes Manas National Park unique is that it shares its border with the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan. Located on the Himalayan foothills, Manas National Park is massive and it is another of Assam’s famous UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites. Because of its far off location away from the toxic fumes, this national park becomes an ideal place to visit for wildlife viewing. You can definitely have a peaceful time amid grasslands and forests. The one-horned rhinoceros also calls Manas its home. The Asiatic buffalo, Clouded Leopard and Great Hornbill are some of the interesting animals to see here.

Travel Distance - Approx. 4 hours

Closest Airport - Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

With lush grassland and wetland habitat, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary makes for a lovely habitat for wildlife. This sanctuary is located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River, not very far from Guwahati, thus, making an ideal family spot for a one-day trip. Like Kaziranga, this national park has a family of rhinos and many other wild species such as leopards, barking deer, wild boar, wild buffalo, and tons of migratory birds. Activities like jeep safaris are always something to indulge in. Most hotels in Guwahati also offer trips to Pobitora due to its close proximity and added packages.

Travel Distance - Approx. 2 hours

Closest Airport - Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary

The second-largest protected habitat for the Golden Langur, Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary is among the most reputable places to visit in Assam. Surrounded by lush nature alongside the India Bhutan border and the mighty Brahmaputra, this sanctuary creates a haven for these endangered primate species. To experience a rare encounter with these fascinating blackface, long-tail monkeys, you’ll have to drive towards western Assam on Chakrashila Hills. In addition, you can also visit the two lakes - Dheer Lake and Diplai Lake to breathe in the cool breeze coming from the mountains.

Travel Distance - Approx. 5 hours

Closest Airport - Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park

Among the many national parks in Assam, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park is a popular pick due to its location. It is situated adjacent to the Brahmaputra River giving you an opportunity to sign up for a relaxing river cruise. But that’s not all, this park also has a rhino population. So if Kaziranga seems a little too distant to travel, consider Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park. Apart from rhinos, wildlife safari will also give you an opportunity to see Bengal tigers wandering amid the wetland.

Travel Distance - Approx. 3 hours

Closest Airport - Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

Nameri National Park

Nameri National Park and Forest Reserve is a place where you can indulge in wildlife viewing and adventure activities. Close to the eastern Himalayas, the climate here can differ from other parts of Assam. This sprawling preserve features camping river and rafting for enthusiastic travellers. Its lush forests and sparse grasslands provide an ideal hiding place for wild animals such as tigers and elephants. Nameri National Park is famous for golden mahseer angling.

Travel Distance - Approx. 5 Hours

Closest Airport - Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

Dibru Saikhowa National Park

This scenic riverside reserve located on the upper Assam is perhaps the best place to visit for wildlife viewing. The most fascinating part about Dibru Saikhowa National Park is that it is an island national park with tons of outdoor activities like boat tours. Make sure you experience the countryside as you sail on the gentle Brahmaputra River. Many migratory birds are found in abundance here. Keep your eyes open for white-winged wood duck, black-breasted parrotbill, to name a few. Assam macaque may be a treat to the eyes but wait till you stumble upon the Bengal tiger and clouded leopard—you won’t be able to take your eyes off of these elegant wild cats.

Travel Distance - Approx. 2 Hours

Closest Airport - Dibrugarh Airport