What is the story about?
India is home to several lush national parks which in turn house some of the most stunning ecosystems and safe havens for several majestic species, many
of them, even endangered. The Kaziranga National Park is inextricably linked to the one-horned rhinoceros in this regard. This natural expanse tucked away in Assam in in many ways, the ultimate global stronghold of the species, housing about 70% of its entire world population. This World Rhino Day, we shine some much-deserved light on its appeal.
Understanding the Ecological Effort of the Kaziranga National Park
When we say that the Kaziranga National Park is a global residential stronghold for the one-horned rhinoceros, it isn't a mere estimation. The expanses of the national park are home to more than 2,600 greater one-horned rhinoceros, essentially being a vital sanctuary for the survival of this species. As per historical and scientific studies, these rhinos were once believed to have made their home all over the Indian subcontinent. However, given the fact that the northeastern stretches of the country essentially boast of higher climate stability and consequent lower human pressure, the greater one-horned rhino has simply naturally migrated towards these regions, an affirmative move that has taken 3,000 years - in the fact of this, northwestern groups of these rhinos have faced extinctions. The national park functions under a structure of strict anti-poaching measures, active habitat management and community involvement that have not only safeguarded the species, but also helped it grow.
Giving a bird's eye view of the Kaziranga experience, visitors can opt for the Kohora (central range), Bagori (western range), Agartoli (eastern range) or the Burapahar (ghorakati range) safari ranges. While the central range is perfect for rhino sightings, the Bagori is great for the open grasslands and sunrise photography. The Agartoli presents quiet birdwatching opportunities while the Burapahar allows onw to trek through the park's natural expanses.
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How to Reach Kaziranga National Park?
Guwahati and Jorhat present the closest points to the Kaziranga National Park, irrespective of whether you're covering the journey there via air, rail or road - the goal is to reach the tourist hub of Kohora, after which the journey should be smooth sailing. If choosing to fly, the Guwahati Airport is your most obvious pick, though it is located about 210 kilometres away from Kaziranga. You will have to cover the journey between Guwahati to Kohora via road, a drive that typically takes between 4 to 5 hours.
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if taking the rail route, disembark at the Guwahati Railway Station. This is an extremely well-connected stop, not just within the state of Assam, but the rest of the country. It's a major rail gateway, with the Kaziranga National Park located just a 4 to 5 hour drive away.
Finally, if driving to Kaziranga from Guwahati, take the National Highway 37 route passing through Nagaon and Kaliabor, with Khanapara being a major transit point.
