Assam, located in Northeast India, is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world. Home to lush forests, vast grasslands, and rare wildlife species, the top national parks in Assam attract nature lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, and adventure travelers from across the globe. From the majestic one-horned rhinoceros to the elusive royal Bengal tiger, the national parks in Assam offer an unmatched wildlife experience.
Kaziranga, Manas, Dibru-Saikhowa, Nameri, Orang, Dehing Patkai, Raimona, and the most recent Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park are among Assam’s eight national parks. These parks are home to diverse flora and fauna, such as the one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, and Asian elephant.
1. Kaziranga National Park – UNESCO World Heritage & Rhino Capital of the World
Location: Golaghat & Nagaon District
Famous For: One-horned rhinoceros, tiger population, elephant herds, swamp deer
Kaziranga is the most popular national park in Assam and one of the world’s most important wildlife conservation sites. Recognized by UNESCO, it hosts the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros globally.
Highlights:
- Elephant Safari & Jeep Safari
- Birdwatching in Agoratoli Range
- Spotting wild buffaloes & tigers
- Photographic grassland landscapes
Best Time to Visit: November to April
2. Manas National Park – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Location: Assam–Bhutan border
Known For: Royal Bengal tiger, golden langur, wild water buffalo
Manas National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site known for its scenic beauty and endangered wildlife. Its riverine ecosystem offers a different experience compared to Kaziranga.
Highlights:
- River rafting on the Manas River
- Rare golden langur sightings
- Dense forest trails
Best Time to Visit: October to March
3. Nameri National Park – Paradise for Birdwatchers
Location: Sonitpur District
Famous For: Birds, river rafting, trekking
Nameri National Park is ideal for tourists looking for nature walks, birdwatching, and adventure. The area is known for white-winged ducks, hornbills, and mahseer fishing (catch & release).
Highlights:
- Guided trekking inside the forest
- River rafting along Jia-Bhoroli
- Eco-camps and sustainable tourism
Best Time to Visit: November to March
4. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park – Assam’s Largest River-Island Park
Location: Tinsukia District
Famous For: Feral horses, migratory birds, river islands
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is one of India’s most unique wildlife destinations because it is surrounded by the Brahmaputra and Lohit Rivers. Known for its semi-wild horses and diverse bird species, it’s a haven for eco-tourists.
Highlights:
- Boat safari
- Dolphin sightings
- Birdwatching during winters
Best Time to Visit: November to April
5. Orang National Park – The Mini Kaziranga
Location: Darrang & Sonitpur Districts
Special For: Rhinos, tigers, elephants
Orang National Park is often called the “Mini Kaziranga” due to its similar habitat and wildlife. It’s calmer, less crowded, and great for peaceful wildlife exploration.
Highlights:
- High-density rhino population
- Picturesque grasslands
- Rare bird species during winter
Best Time to Visit: October to April
6. Raimona National Park – Assam’s Newest Wildlife Destination
Location: Kokrajhar District (Bodoland)
Famous For: Golden langurs, elephants, hornbills
Declared a national park in 2021, Raimona is rich in flora and fauna and is gaining popularity among wildlife researchers and eco-tourists.
Highlights:
- Pristine forest trails
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Part of the larger Buxa–Manas–Raimona landscape
Best Time to Visit: November to March
7. Dehing Patkai National Park—The Only Rainforest National Park in Assam
Location: Dibrugarh & Tinsukia Districts
Known For: Tropical rainforest, clouded leopards, wild cats
Declared in 2021, Dehing Patkai is Assam’s only rainforest national park. Its dense, evergreen jungles house rich biodiversity rarely seen elsewhere in India.
Highlights:
- Clouded leopard habitat
- Rare orchid varieties
- Diverse butterfly species
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Why Visit National Parks in Assam?
Assam is globally recognized for:
- One-horned rhinos
- Rare and endangered wildlife species
- World-class birdwatching
- Rainforest biodiversity
- UNESCO heritage sites
- Adventurous jeep & elephant safari
These national parks offer a unique combination of wildlife tourism, nature exploration, and cultural experiences that attract travelers from the USA, Europe, and across the world.
Best Time to Visit Assam’s National Parks
- Peak Season: November to April
- Monsoon Closure: Most parks remain closed June–September
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Ideal for birdwatching
- Spring (Mar–Apr): Best wildlife visibility
Travel Tips for Visiting Assam National Parks
- Book safaris in advance during peak season
- Wear neutral-colored clothing
- Carry binoculars & high-range zoom cameras
- Follow forest department rules
- Avoid loud noises to protect wildlife
FAQ – National Parks in Assam
1. How many national parks are there in Assam?
Assam currently has seven national parks including Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, Orang, Dibru-Saikhowa, Raimona, and Dehing Patkai.
2. Which is the most famous national park in Assam?
Kaziranga National Park is the most famous, known for its world-leading population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
3. What is the best time to visit Assam’s national parks?
The best months are October to April, with ideal wildlife viewing from November to February.
4. Which national park in Assam is best for tigers?
Manas National Park and Kaziranga both offer good chances of spotting tigers.
5. Are safaris available in all national parks in Assam?
Most parks have jeep safaris; boat and elephant safaris are offered in specific parks like Kaziranga and Dibru-Saikhowa.
6. Why is Assam famous for wildlife tourism?
Because of its unique biodiversity, UNESCO sites, and rare species like one-horned rhinos, golden langurs, and Bengal tigers.
Conclusion
Assam’s national parks represent some of India’s most precious wildlife habitats. Whether you want to spot rhinos in Kaziranga, trek inside Nameri, or explore the rainforest of Dehing Patkai, Assam’s wildlife destinations promise unforgettable experiences.
