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Kaziranga Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, situated in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, is one of the world’s greatest wildlife landscapes. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006, it supports one of the highest densities of Bengal Tigers anywhere on Earth. The reserve is internationally famous as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for harbouring the world’s largest population of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros. Its mosaic of alluvial grasslands, wetlands, riverine forests and woodland habitats sustains extraordinary biodiversity.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Assam |
| Districts | Golaghat, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Biswanath and Karbi Anglong (landscape) |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 2006 |
| Total Area | 1,303.76 sq km |
| Core Area | 625.58 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 678.18 sq km |
| Landscape | Brahmaputra Floodplains |
| Forest Types | Alluvial Grasslands, Riverine Forests, Wetlands and Semi-evergreen Forests |
| Major Rivers | Brahmaputra, Diphlu, Mora Diphlu, Difolu |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April |
Location
Kaziranga Tiger Reserve stretches across the fertile floodplains of the Brahmaputra River in central Assam. It forms an integral part of the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape and provides ecological connectivity with the forested hills of Karbi Anglong.
History
Kaziranga was first declared a Reserved Forest in 1908 following the efforts of Mary Curzon to protect the dwindling rhinoceros population. It became a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950, a National Park in 1974, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and a Tiger Reserve in 2006. Today it is recognised as one of the world’s finest conservation success stories.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve covers approximately 1,303.76 sq km, comprising a core area of 625.58 sq km and a buffer area of 678.18 sq km. Annual flooding by the Brahmaputra creates fertile grasslands, oxbow lakes, marshes and riverine forests that support exceptional wildlife productivity.
Flora
Vegetation consists of tall elephant grass, reed beds, cane brakes, riverine forests, semi-evergreen forests, silk cotton, simul, fig, jamun, khair, sissoo and numerous aquatic plant species.
Fauna
Kaziranga supports Bengal Tiger, Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Wild Water Buffalo, Eastern Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar, Leopard, Fishing Cat, Smooth-coated Otter and Gangetic Dolphin. More than 500 bird species have been recorded, including Bengal Florican, Greater Adjutant, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, Bar-headed Goose and numerous migratory waterbirds. Gharial, Mugger Crocodile and King Cobra are among the important reptiles.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries, including the Diphlu, Mora Diphlu and Difolu rivers, together with numerous wetlands and beels, sustain the reserve throughout the year.
Other Attractions
Elephant and jeep safaris (where permitted), birdwatching, orchid diversity, nearby Karbi Anglong hills and interpretation centres attract visitors from around the world.
Weather & Climate
Summers are warm and humid. Heavy monsoon rainfall between May and September results in seasonal flooding that rejuvenates the grasslands. Winters are cool and pleasant.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Jorhat. Other nearby airports include Tezpur and Guwahati. Nearest railway stations: Furkating, Jakhalabandha and Guwahati. The reserve is well connected by road via National Highway 715.
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the best period for wildlife viewing, as most tourism zones remain open after the monsoon season.
Accommodation
Forest Department inspection bungalows and Assam Tourism accommodation are available near the tourism ranges, subject to advance booking.
Conservation Highlights
Kaziranga is globally recognised for recovering the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros and maintaining one of the world’s highest tiger densities. Intensive anti-poaching operations, scientific monitoring, habitat management and landscape-level conservation have made it a global model for wildlife protection.
Visitor Tips
Book safaris well in advance, carry binoculars, wear muted colours, maintain silence while observing wildlife and follow all Forest Department regulations.
Did You Know?
• Kaziranga supports one of the world’s highest densities of Bengal Tigers.
• It is home to the world’s largest population of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros.
• The reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Last Updated
July 2026