Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: Where Wild Horses Roam Free in Assam

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: Where Wild Horses Roam Free in Assam

In the floodplains of the Brahmaputra and Lohit rivers lies one of Assam’s most enchanting wildernesses—Dibru-Saikhowa National Park. Spread across over 400 square kilometres in Tinsukia district, it is celebrated not only for its rich biodiversity but also as the only place in India where wild horses, known as Feral Horses, roam free.

The park’s unique landscape is shaped by grasslands, wetlands, and riverine forests, constantly nourished by the shifting rivers. Seasonal flooding creates marshes and sandbars, attracting a wide variety of species and supporting a delicate ecological balance. This ever-changing terrain makes Dibru-Saikhowa both unpredictable and spectacular.

The most striking inhabitants are the Feral Horses. Descendants of animals left behind during World War II by the British Army, these horses have adapted to life in the wild and now thrive in the grasslands. Their presence gives the park a rare charm, often compared to scenes from the savannahs rather than the Indian subcontinent.

Beyond the horses, Dibru-Saikhowa is a haven for birdlife. Declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1997, it is recognised as an Important Bird Area with more than 350 species, including the white-winged wood duck, Bengal florican, and spot-billed pelican. Winter brings migratory visitors like bar-headed geese and northern pintails, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

The park also shelters mammals such as wild buffalo, capped langur, hog deer, and sometimes even tigers and leopards, though sightings are rare. Aquatic life is equally rich, with the rivers home to the endangered Gangetic river dolphin, which can often be spotted surfacing gracefully in quieter stretches.

Tourism here is carefully managed. Jeep safaris are limited due to the terrain, but river cruises on the Brahmaputra and Dibru rivers provide an unforgettable way to experience the park. Visitors can also explore designated walking trails and community-run eco-tourism initiatives that highlight local culture and conservation efforts.

The best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant, and the water levels allow easier access. Guijan Ghat and Saikhowa Ghat are the main entry points, about 12 kilometres from Tinsukia town, where accommodation facilities are available.

Dibru-Saikhowa is more than a national park—it is a rare blend of history, culture, and ecology. Its wild horses, thriving birdlife, and riverine beauty make it a destination unlike any other in India’s northeast.