10 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Assam That Will Bring You Close To Nature

Encountering wildlife in its natural habitat is a memorable experience for travelers, and Assam offers just that. Situated in a top biodiversity hotspot, Assam's landscape, enriched by the Himalayan foothills and the Brahmaputra River, has several wildlife sanctuaries and attracts a lot of wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe.

Assam's diverse wildlife comprises various landforms, vegetation, birds, and animals. Its favorable climate supports endemic species like the Pygmy hog, found exclusively in Assam. Rare wildlife such as wild water buffalos, hoolock gibbons, hog deer, great one-horned rhinoceroses, and Ganges dolphins also call Assam home.

Here are some must-visit wildlife sanctuaries in Assam for your travel list: 

• Kaziranga National Park
• Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary
• Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary
• Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary:
• Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary
• Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary
•  Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary

Kaziranga National Park

Situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga is a wildlife sanctuary in Golaghat, Karbi Anglong and Nagaon districts of Assam that is immensely popular. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park has been attracting thousands of tourists for many years now. The 800 sq. mt. area of the national park is full of thickets, beautiful rocky landscapes, and green vegetation. Amidst the greenery, you can spot a variety of birds and wild animals like elephants, tigers, and water buffaloes. However, the main attraction of the national park is the one-horned rhinoceros. You can explore the national park in a jeep with your loved ones, and if you’re lucky, you will be able to see some of the wild animals a few centimetres away from you.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Guwahati Airport (217 km away). From Guwahati, take a taxi/bus to Kaziranga.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Furkating Railway Station (75 km away). Take a taxi/bus to Kaziranga. Alternatively, take a train to Guwahati Railway Station and proceed by road.
By Road	Kaziranga is well-connected by road to major cities in Assam. Drive or take a bus from Guwahati, Tezpur, or Jorhat.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife viewing and safaris.
March and April	Onset of spring. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for wildlife and birdwatching.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall leads to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Safaris: Explore the park's diverse fauna on jeep or elephant safaris.
• Birdwatching: Spot various bird species, including migratory birds.
• Nature Walks: Enjoy guided walks through the park's forests and grasslands.
• Cultural Visits: Interact with local communities and learn about their traditions.
• Boat Rides: Take boat rides on the Brahmaputra River for a different perspective.
• Visit Rehabilitation Centers: Learn about conservation efforts at wildlife rehabilitation centers.
• Picnics and Photography: Relax amidst the scenic beauty and capture memorable moments.
• Cultural Performances: Attend traditional dances and music performances to experience Assam's culture.

Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Kokrajhar and Dhubri districts, Chakrashila is a gorgeous wildlife sanctuary in Assam, home to some of the most exotic wild animals. It is spread over 45.568 sq. km with two lakes, Dheer Beel and Diplai Beel, on each side. There are over 20 species of reptiles and 40 species of butterflies in this sanctuary. Some of the mammals spotted at Chakrashila include the Indian flying fox, Rhesus Macaque, Bengal Fox, Asiatic Jackal, Hornbill, and Indian Pipistrelle. This sanctuary in Assam also houses the glorious and endangered golden langurs and over 250 species of birds which will simply take your breath away!

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 200 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Kokrajhar Railway Station (about 40 km away). From Kokrajhar, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Kokrajhar or Bongaigaon.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like golden langurs.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot various bird species.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary to appreciate its natural beauty and biodiversity.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and lush vegetation.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.
• Trekking: Embark on trekking trails within the sanctuary for an immersive wilderness experience.
• Relaxation: Enjoy peaceful moments amidst nature's tranquility and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated on the foothills of the Himalayas with the beautiful country of Bhutan on its north, in the Udalgiri and Baksha district of Assam, Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary is where some of the most ferocious wildlife in Assam reside. Named after the river Bornadi which flows from its border, the natural beauty of this wildlife sanctuary is hard to describe in words. Some highly endangered species like the Clouded Leopard, Golden Langur, and Pygmy Hogs reside in this wildlife sanctuary in Assam. Other wildlife species spotted here include Hispid Hare, White Winged Wood Duck, and Swamp Deer.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 220 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Kokrajhar Railway Station (about 40 km away). From Kokrajhar, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Kokrajhar or Bongaigaon.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species, elephants, and deer.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot endemic and migratory birds.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its natural beauty and biodiversity.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and lush vegetation.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.
• Picnicking: Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the scenic surroundings of the sanctuary.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about conservation efforts and initiatives at the sanctuary's interpretation center.

Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary

Situated in the civil district of Jorhat in Assam, Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary is surrounded by lush grasslands and tea plantations that make it a picturesque location perfect for some wildlife photography. Not only is this sanctuary home to India’s one and only ape species–the Hoolock Gibbon, but also the Bengal Slow Loris. This sanctuary in Assam is a dream come true for wildlife enthusiasts as it also houses tigers, leopards, wild boars, and around 220 species of avifauna.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 200 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Jorhat Railway Station (about 20 km away). From Jorhat, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary.
By Road	Hoollongapar Gibbons Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Jorhat or Guwahati.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Gibbon Spotting: Observe the endangered hoolock gibbons in their natural habitat.
• Wildlife Viewing: Explore the sanctuary's diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species, primates, and other mammals.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
• Birdwatching: Enjoy birdwatching and spot endemic and migratory bird species.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and lush vegetation.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts and initiatives at interpretation centers.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary

Located on the south banks of the Brahmaputra river in the Nagaon district, Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of the Laokhowa-Burachapori ecosystem. The sanctuary offers an ideal habitat for Asiatic water buffaloes. Over 200 species of birds have been spotted at this picturesque sanctuary with some of the most exotic wildlife in Assam like the Indian leopard, Indian boar, Bengal tiger, leopard cat, and hog deer. If you’re looking to get a closer look at some of the most exotic wildlife animals you can find in India, then spend a day at this sanctuary.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 170 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Nagaon Railway Station (about 30 km away). From Nagaon, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Nagaon or Guwahati.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe various wildlife species including elephants, rhinoceroses, deer, and birds.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot endemic and migratory bird species.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its natural beauty and biodiversity.
• River Safari: Enjoy boat rides along the Brahmaputra River to spot aquatic life and birds.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and scenic views.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary:

Surrounded with sparkling water and lush greens, this Deepor Beel Bird sanctuary is located in the Kamrup District of Guwahati, Assam. Recognised as one of the finest wildlife sanctuary in India, this beautiful sanctuary is a home to 120 species of birds and a must visit for Bird watching. Some of the species that can be spotted here are the kingfishers, fishing eagles, stork and wide variety of ducks. If you are planning to have a real closer view of these birds at their natural habitat, do plan a visit at this sanctuary and plan your stay at the nearest club Mahindra partner hotels.

Assam is a great place to spend some time with your loved ones amidst the glory of nature and see some of the most exotic wildlife species up close. It truly is a little piece of paradise on Earth!

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 16 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Guwahati Railway Station (about 10 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary.
By Road	Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby areas in Guwahati.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's diverse avian population including migratory and resident bird species.
• Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks along designated trails to observe birds and enjoy the natural surroundings.
• Boating: Enjoy boat rides on the beel (wetland) to get closer to bird habitats and observe them from a different perspective.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the birds, landscapes, and wetland scenery.
• Wildlife Spotting: Besides birds, spot other wildlife such as water buffalo, otters, and various reptiles.
• Picnicking: Have a relaxing picnic amidst the serene surroundings of the sanctuary.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about wetland conservation and bird protection efforts through informative displays and signage.

Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary

Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Sonitpur district of Assam, is a lesser-known gem among the wildlife sanctuaries in Assam. While not as famous as Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, it contributes significantly to the rich biodiversity of Assam. Spanning approximately 44 square kilometers, this sanctuary is nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Assam, complementing the larger national parks in the region. The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, adding to the rich wildlife of Assam. It hosts a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, Indian bison, deer, wild boars, and an array of avian species such as hornbills, eagles, and waterfowl. Additionally, it serves as a vital habitat for the endangered Bengal florican, highlighting its significance in wildlife conservation efforts in Assam.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (about 180 km away). From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	Nearest railway station: Rangapara North Railway Station (about 30 km away). From Rangapara, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Tezpur or Guwahati.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna including elephants, Indian bison, deer, and various bird species.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot endemic and migratory bird species.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its natural beauty and biodiversity.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and scenic views.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about conservation efforts and initiatives at the sanctuary's interpretation centers.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

 

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam, India, is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna. Covering an area of approximately 6.05 square kilometers, this sanctuary is nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Eastern Himalayas.

The sanctuary is named after the hot water springs (Garampani) that are found within its boundaries. These natural springs are believed to have medicinal properties and attract visitors seeking therapeutic baths. Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including the endangered hoolock gibbons, leopards, deer, wild boars, and various bird species.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, approximately 220 kilometers away. From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	The nearest railway station is Furkating Junction, located around 70 kilometers away. From Furkating Junction, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Golaghat or Kaziranga National Park.

Best time to visit: 

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna including hoolock gibbons, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
• Hot Spring Baths: Enjoy therapeutic baths in the natural hot water springs (Garampani) located within the sanctuary.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its natural beauty and biodiversity.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot endemic and migratory bird species.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and scenic views.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about conservation efforts and initiatives at the sanctuary's interpretation centers.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary

Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Sonitpur district of Assam, India, is a biodiverse haven renowned for its rich flora and fauna. Spanning an area of approximately 220 square kilometers, this sanctuary is nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas.

The sanctuary is named after the Sonai and Rupai rivers that flow through its territory, adding to its natural beauty. It comprises diverse habitats including grasslands, wetlands, deciduous forests, and riverine ecosystems, making it a haven for a wide variety of wildlife species.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, approximately 250 kilometers away. From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	The nearest railway station is Tezpur Railway Station, located around 45 kilometers away. From Tezpur, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Tezpur or Guwahati.

 

Best Time to Visit:

Best Time to Visit	Description
November to February	Peak season. Pleasant weather, minimal rainfall. Ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration.
March and April	Spring season. Warmer temperatures, lush vegetation. Good for birdwatching and nature walks.
May to October	Park closed due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding. Not suitable for visitation.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna including elephants, Indian bison, tigers, leopards, deer, and various primates.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot over 250 bird species, including rare and endangered birds.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its diverse habitats and rich biodiversity.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and scenic views.
• Wildlife Safari: Embark on a safari adventure to explore deeper into the sanctuary and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about conservation efforts and initiatives at the sanctuary's interpretation centers.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary

Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam, India, is a biodiverse haven encompassing an area of approximately 37 square kilometers. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Eastern Himalayas, this sanctuary is renowned for its rich flora and fauna.

The sanctuary is characterized by dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, providing diverse habitats for a wide variety of wildlife species. It serves as an important corridor for the movement of elephants between the hills and the plains. Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous mammal species including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and various species of deer. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 avian species recorded in the sanctuary.

How to reach:

Mode of Transport	Description
By Air	The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train	The nearest railway station is Lumding Junction, located around 150 kilometers away. From Lumding, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Road	Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby towns like Diphu or Guwahati.

Things to do:

• Wildlife Spotting: Observe diverse flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and various species of deer.
• Birdwatching: Explore the sanctuary's avian diversity and spot over 200 bird species, including rare and migratory birds.
• Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the sanctuary's trails to appreciate its diverse habitats and rich biodiversity.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and scenic views.
• Wildlife Safari: Embark on a safari adventure to explore deeper into the sanctuary and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
• Conservation Awareness: Learn about conservation efforts and initiatives at the sanctuary's interpretation centers.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

Assam's wildlife sanctuaries and national parks offer rich biodiversity and unforgettable experiences year-round. While the monsoon season sees heavy rainfall, other times of the year are perfect for a vacation. Assam is home to renowned destinations like Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its one-horned rhinoceroses, and Manas National Park, where majestic elephants roam. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the abundance of species in Assam's lush landscapes. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or seeking a memorable vacation, Assam's natural beauty and diverse wildlife make it an ideal destination for exploration.