Kaziranga National Park Reopens October 1: Get ready for thrilling safaris and wildlife adventures

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve is reopening on October 1, 2024 (Image: Canva)

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve is set to welcome tourists starting October 1, 2024. The announcement was officially made by the Office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, in a letter dated September 7. According to the letter, "Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, under the jurisdiction of the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, will open for the 2024-25 season on October 1, 2024, subject to weather conditions."

Currently, the park is offering Jeep Safari tours across three ranges: Kaziranga Range (Kohora), Western Range (Bagori), and Burapahar Range (Ghorakati). The safari timings remain unchanged, with two shifts available daily—morning from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM and afternoon from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. These arrangements will continue until further notice from park authorities.

Kaziranga National Park remains closed annually from May to October due to the risk of flooding from the Brahmaputra River. This year, officials have reported that floods in Assam have claimed the lives of 215 animals, including 13 one-horned rhinos at Kaziranga. Over the past five years, floods in the region have affected 847 animals, with 511 reported dead.

Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park, stressed that ensuring the safety and satisfaction of visitors will be the highest priority for the upcoming season. While the park has traditionally dealt with challenges like flooding, steps are being taken to provide tourists with a secure and enjoyable experience.

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to be one of India's most cherished wildlife sanctuaries. Beyond its famous one-horned rhinoceroses, the park is a thriving ecosystem that supports an impressive range of species, including the Bengal tiger, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer, making it one of the few places on Earth where all these species coexist. Its vast grasslands, wetlands, and tropical forests offer a dynamic backdrop for wildlife exploration.

Visitors to Kaziranga can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, such as Jeep safaris, elephant-back rides, and boat cruises on the Brahmaputra River, providing a unique perspective on the region's diverse habitats. The park also attracts birdwatchers, with over 500 species of birds, including migratory birds like the black-necked stork, pelicans, and hornbills, making it a true paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Kaziranga National Park, one of the best-preserved national parks in India. (Image: Canva)

As one of the best-preserved national parks in India, Kaziranga provides not just adventure but also a chance to witness the importance of wildlife conservation firsthand. Its reopening in October is eagerly awaited, offering an unparalleled experience of India's natural beauty and ecological diversity. For eco-tourists and wildlife lovers alike, Kaziranga National Park is an essential destination that showcases the delicate balance between nature and conservation.

(With inputs from ANI)