Discover the Thrill of an Elephant Safari in Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in Assam, India, is a sanctuary of rich biodiversity and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Known for its impressive population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga also offers the chance to observe majestic elephants, tigers, water buffalo, and diverse bird species in their natural habitats. While jeep safaris are a popular way to explore the national park, an elephant safari provides a unique and unforgettable perspective. Riding atop an elephant brings you closer to the lush landscape and allows you to experience Kaziranga’s beauty in a serene and intimate manner. This type of safari has become one of Kaziranga’s top attractions, especially for those seeking an authentic, close-up wildlife experience.
Hit the road to Kaziranga, to take a closer look at what makes an elephant safari so special.
Choosing an Elephant Safari in Kaziranga
Kaziranga National Park remains open from October to April. After the national park reopens, Kaziranga received a great response from tourists from all over the country, eager to embark on jeep and elephant safaris. An Elephant safari in Kaziranga offers a unique way to experience Kaziranga that no other type of safari can match. Unlike jeep safaris, which are restricted to designated trails, elephants can navigate through dense grasses and wetlands, bringing you incredibly close to Kaziranga’s famous one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife.
The slow, gentle pace of an elephant safari also provides an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture incredible shots without the noise and vibrations that come with other types of transportation. With a heightened view from an elephant’s back, you get a wide and expansive perspective of Kaziranga’s diverse landscape. During the monsoon season (June to September), Kaziranga experiences heavy rainfall, and the park remains closed due to the risk of flooding. It’s best to plan your trip during the dry season to ensure an optimal safari experience and to maximize wildlife sightings.
Booking Your Elephant Safari in Kaziranga
Following its reopening in October 2024, the officials of Kaziranga introduced elephant safari in the Burapahar Range and launched a new 10-km cycling route in the Agaratoli Range. Park officials announced that, in addition to introducing the elephant safari in Burapahar, they have resumed the popular elephant safari activities in the Bagori and Kohora ranges as well. They noted that the demand for elephant safaris remains high among tourists.
Elephant safaris in Kaziranga are typically organized by the authorities of the forest department and must be booked in advance, especially during peak season when demand is high. Safaris are offered in two sessions each morning, lasting about an hour each, with small groups of tourists assigned to each elephant.
The safari begins at designated entry points in the park, such as Kohora, Bagori, and Agaratoli, where elephants and their mahouts are stationed to greet visitors. 4 tourists and a mahout are allowed to ride on an elephant. The gentle movement of the elephant facilitates tourists to visualise the virgin beauty of Kaziranga. The morning hours of the elephant safari also treats with the scope of birdwatching, adding charm to the overall experience.
Things to Consider While on an Elephant Safari
While on the safari, respect the natural habitat by maintaining silence. Teasing the elephant, or hurting it, or feeding them without any permission is strictly prohibited and might be subject to paying a fine. Following the instructions of your guide and mahout will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you and the wildlife.
