Orang National Park: The Ultimate Guide to Assam’s Hidden Wildlife Gem

Orang National Park: Your ultimate guide to Assam’s Hidden Gem Beyond Kaziranga (Image: Orang National Park)

When travelers think of Assam’s wildlife, Kaziranga National Park often steals the spotlight. But hidden away on the northern banks of the Brahmaputra River lies a lesser-known yet equally breathtaking wilderness—Orang National Park.

Often called the "Mini Kaziranga", this untouched gem offers a raw, crowd-free safari experience with swaying grasslands, shimmering marshes, and meandering streams. If you crave unfiltered nature, thrilling wildlife encounters, and a peaceful escape, Orang is a detour worth taking.

Why Orang National Park Should Be on Your Travel List

• A Rhino Stronghold – The only place on the north bank of the Brahmaputra where you can see the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros in the wild.
• Tiger Territory – A healthy population of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger makes Orang a thrilling spot for big cat lovers.
• Birdwatcher’s Paradise – Home to over 220 bird species, including the rare Bengal Florican, this park is a dream destination for birding enthusiasts.
• Raw, Unspoiled Beauty – Unlike commercialized national parks, Orang offers an intimate, undisturbed wildlife experience without the safari traffic.

What Wildlife Awaits You in Orang?

Orang National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to majestic mammals, rare birds, and elusive reptiles. A safari here promises thrilling sightings and unforgettable encounters.

Mammals to Watch for on a Safari

One of the biggest draws of Orang is its diverse mammal population, featuring some of India’s most iconic species.

• Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros – The undisputed star of Orang’s wildlife scene.
• Royal Bengal Tiger – The ghost of the grasslands, elusive yet ever-present.
• Pygmy Hog – A critically endangered species, rarely found anywhere else.
• Maljuria Elephants – A rare phenomenon where male elephants roam together in groups, unlike their usual solitary behavior.
• Hog Deer, Wild Buffalo, Porcupine, Gangetic Dolphin – A safari at Orang offers the chance to spot these fascinating species in their natural habitat.

A serene safari haven with rhinos, tigers, and rare birds. (Image: Orang National Park)

A Paradise for Bird Lovers

Orang is a haven for birdwatchers, with an astonishing variety of rare and migratory birds.

• Bengal Florican – Orang boasts the second-highest concentration of this endangered species.
• Spot-Billed and White Pelicans – These graceful birds can often be seen gliding across the park’s wetlands.
• Greater and Lesser Adjutant Storks – Towering and striking, these birds are a common sight near water bodies.
• Brahminy and Pintail Ducks – Migratory species that add vibrant colors to Orang’s rich birdlife.

Reptiles & Turtles You May Encounter

For those fascinated by reptiles, Orang is home to some of India’s most intriguing species.

• Indian Rock Python, King Cobra, Black Krait – These powerful predators thrive in Orang’s dense forests and wetlands.
• Seven species of turtles and tortoises – The park’s diverse aquatic ecosystem shelters several freshwater turtle species, adding to its rich biodiversity.

How to Get to Orang National Park

By Air – The nearest airport is Salonibari (Tezpur), 80 km away. Guwahati Airport is about 150 km from the park.

By Road – Orang is 18 km south of NH-52 at Dhansirighat. It’s 70 km from Mangaldai and 150 km from Guwahati.

Best Time to Visit Orang National Park

The best time to explore Orang is November to April, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent.

Avoid visiting between June and September, as the monsoon floods parts of the park, making access difficult.

(Image: Orang National Park)

Why You Should Add Orang to Your Assam Travel Itinerary

If you’re heading to Kaziranga, Majuli Island, or even Shillong, take a wild detour to Orang. Unlike Kaziranga’s bustling safari scene, Orang offers a quiet, intimate, and truly immersive experience—perfect for those who want to connect with nature without the crowds.

A Must-Visit for True Explorers

Orang National Park isn’t just another wildlife destination—it’s an untouched paradise waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher, photographer, or adventure seeker, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Assam’s wild side without the tourist rush.

So, if you’re an explorer at heart, ditch the mainstream and set out on a wild adventure to Assam’s best-kept wildlife secret!