Phased Reopening and Safari Timings
The park has initiated a phased reopening for the new season. Initially, jeep safaris have resumed in the Central Range at Kohora and the Western Range at Bagori. Other ranges, such as the Eastern (Agaratoli) and Burapahar, are expected to open progressively.
Visitors should confirm which ranges are accessible before planning their trip. For the ranges that are open, jeep safaris are operating in two daily slots. The morning safari runs from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and the afternoon session is scheduled from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Travellers in the morning must exit by noon, while afternoon visitors need to leave by 5:00 PM.
Elephant Safaris on a Delayed Schedule
One of the most popular experiences at Kaziranga, the elephant safari, is not yet available. Officials have indicated that these safaris remain temporarily suspended to allow for necessary preparations and path inspections after the monsoon. According to the latest reports, elephant safaris are expected to resume on November 1, 2026. Tourists planning their visit specifically for this activity should schedule their travel accordingly and verify the official start date before booking.
Emphasis on Online Booking
To streamline the visitor experience and reduce crowding at entry points, there is a continued push towards online bookings. Travellers are strongly advised to book their safari slots in advance through official portals. Several authorized websites now offer range-wise booking for jeep safaris, allowing guests to check live availability and secure their place. This move is part of a broader effort to make the process more convenient and manage the flow of tourists effectively. Entry permits can also be obtained through the Assam Sewa Setu portal.
Infrastructure and Future Developments
Looking ahead, the Assam government has signalled a commitment to enhancing the tourist experience in and around Kaziranga. Assam's Environment and Forest Minister, Jayanta Mallabaruah, stated that the Forest and Tourism departments will collaborate to upgrade infrastructure, improve visitor facilities, and introduce new attractions. There are also plans to develop new tourism circuits that connect Kaziranga with nearby destinations, encouraging visitors to extend their stay in the region and explore its diverse offerings. This focus on development aims to accommodate a growing number of tourists while maintaining the park's conservation priorities.
What Remains the Same
While some operational details have been updated, the core experience of Kaziranga remains unchanged. The park is a sanctuary for the great one-horned rhinoceros, and also provides a habitat for tigers, Asiatic elephants, wild water buffalo, and a rich diversity of birdlife. The thrill of exploring its vast grasslands, wetlands, and forests continues to be a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts. The park's fee structure for jeep safaris varies by range and whether the visitor is an Indian national or a foreigner, with prices starting from around INR 3,900 per jeep. These costs typically include the vehicle, driver, permit, and guide charges.
