No national park in India is as famous as the Kaziranga National Park in Assam. And why not? 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a dense population of one-horned rhinos. More recently, a rare golden tiger was spotted in the national park this April.

This Indian wildlife reserve is so famous that it recorded 443,636 visitors between October 1, 2024, and May 18, 2025. That made it the 3rd most-visited national park in the year.

So, if you've been planning to visit this national park, this Kaziranga National Park safari guide is for you. It will walk you through everything you need to know for an amazing trip. Dive in, then!

Where is Kaziranga Located and How to Get There

Kaziranga is located in Assam, a northeastern region of India, about 194 km from Guwahati. It stretches across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River. 

Getting there is pretty straightforward. The nearest airport is Jorhat, just 97 kilometres away, though most visitors prefer flying into Guwahati and taking the scenic ride through Assam's countryside.

If you're travelling by bus or car, the travel time from Guwahati is around 4-5 hours. That gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery along the way. No matter which city you start from, be prepared for some transit time. But, the scenery along the way—tea gardens, villages, and glimpses of the Brahmaputra River—makes the ride worthwhile.

Kaziranga’s Wildlife

Kaziranga National Park is a sanctuary of rich biodiversity. It’s home to an incredible array of wild animals.

It is famously the residence of the "Big Five" of Kaziranga. These include the one-horned rhinos, Indian elephants, Royal Bengal Tigers, Wild Water Buffalo, and Eastern Swamp deer.

The park also holds the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses and the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers.  

Beyond these iconic species, the park also shelters a wide variety of other creatures, including leopards, sloth bears, and primates like the hoolock gibbon.

The Brahmaputra River and other water bodies are home to the endangered Ganges river dolphin.

The park is also a paradise for those who love watching birds. It is designated an "Important Bird Area," attracting thousands of migratory and native species every year. Spotting rare birds like the lesser white-fronted goose or a greater adjutant stork is a common sight in its wetlands.

Kaziranga National Park Zones You Can Explore

Kaziranga is divided into four main zones. These zones help protect the forest and manage wildlife conservation while giving customers a variety of experiences.

Here, in this section of the Kaziranga National Park safari guide, we’ll take a quick look at the four different types of zones:

• Kohora: This is where most tourists start. This region, or the Central Range, is famous for its rhinos; you'll spot these magnificent creatures grazing peacefully. The zone also hosts elephants, wild water buffalo, and various deer species.
• Bagori: The Western Zone offers a different experience altogether. Famous for its mighty Brahmaputra River, this is where you’re more likely to see herds of elephants and groups of rhinos at a relatively safe distance.
• Agaratoli: The Agaratoli Zone, with its numerous water bodies, is the best area for bird watching. It is the only zone that offers a boat safari, and its entry gate is located in Agaratoli town.
• Burapahar Range: This zone, having a hilly terrain, is located near Ghorakati village. This region is perfect for birding and trekking activities. Visitors might spot a hoolock gibbon in this forest.

If you have time, try visiting more than one region. Each has a different vibe, and together they give you the complete Kaziranga experience.

Types of Safaris and Costs

Kaziranga offers two main types of safari services: jeep safaris and elephant safaris. Both are incredible ways to explore the park, but each has its perks.

Jeep Safaris

Jeep safaris are the most popular option, allowing you to cover a lot of distance in less time. Each vehicle usually carries 6–8 customers. Jeep safaris run in two shifts daily:

• Morning Ride: 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM
• Afternoon Ride: 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

The cost for jeep safaris is around ₹2,500–₹3,500 per jeep, depending on the zone and plans you book.  

Elephant Safaris

For a magical, slow-paced ride, hop on an elephant safari. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard as you see wild animals grazing nearby. These rides happen early in the morning (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) when the wildlife is most active. The cost is typically ₹1500–₹2000 per person.

Note, though, elephant safaris are only available in the Central and Western zones.  

How You Can Save Money

To save money, consider visiting during weekdays when demand is lower. Some companies offer package deals that include multiple zone visits, transportation from nearby cities, and accommodation. These packages often provide better value than booking everything separately.

Group bookings also offer cost savings since jeeps carry up to 6 people, sharing with friends or family significantly reduces per-person costs. Many solo travellers connect with others at the park entrance to share rides and split costs.

Safari Timings

To give visitors a great experience, Kaziranga National Park divides its day into two separate time slots: one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Morning safaris start early, around 7:30 AM during summer and 8:00 AM in winter. This timing is perfect because animals are most active during cooler parts of the day.

The morning slot runs until around 10:30 AM, giving you about 3 hours to explore your chosen zone. Go for it if you wish to spot rhinos, elephants, and birds.

Afternoon safaris begin around 1:30 PM and continue until 4:30 PM. You'll spot wildlife, but not much since animals rest during these hours.  

Note: The park is typically open from November to April. It remains closed during the monsoon season because of flooding from the powerful Brahmaputra River.

4 Tips for a Great Experience at Kaziranga National Park

Here are a few tips that can help you explore this park fully while saving money and enjoying every moment:

1. Plan Your Safari Timing Wisely

The park is busiest during weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on weekdays to avoid long lines at the gate. 

Morning rides are ideal because wild animals are most active, and the soft light makes for excellent photographs. Additionally, allocate half a day to the safari. That gives you enough time to explore more than one region without feeling rushed.

2. Book in Advance and Compare Costs

Jeep safaris and elephant safaris get booked quickly, especially during peak seasons. By reserving early, you secure your vehicle, avoid last-minute stress, and often get better prices.

It’s also smart to compare options before you pay. Some companies include guide services, while others only cover the vehicle. Sharing a jeep with other tourists is a great way to save money.

3. Respect Wildlife and Boundaries

You’re stepping into the natural habitat of countless species. Always keep a safe distance from animals and follow your guide’s instructions.

Don’t cross marked boundaries or get out of your vehicle. Additionally, avoid loud noises, which can disturb the natural habitat where wildlife lives.

4. Make Time for Scenic Points and the Orchid Park

While spotting animals is a thrill, don't overlook the equally breathtaking landscapes that are a highlight of any safari. Pause at scenic lookouts where you can see the mighty Brahmaputra River or wide grasslands stretching into the horizon.

Additionally, don’t miss the nearby Orchid Park, which showcases the largest collection of orchids in India. It’s a colourful, peaceful place that balances the thrill of the forest with a touch of calm beauty. Together, these stops make your trip feel complete.

It's Time to Plan Your Trip to Kaziranga National Park

Few places in India can match the magic of Kaziranga. More than just a park, Kaziranga is a treasure trove of wildlife, scenery, and unforgettable experiences.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today. Bookmark this Kaziranga National Park safari guide—it’s got all the details you need to make the most of your visit and create memories that will stay with you long after you leave.