Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Morigaon district of Assam, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its dense population of the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros. Established in 1971 as a reserve to protect these endangered rhinos from rampant poaching, it originally formed part of the Mayong Forest Reserve. By 1987, Pobitora was declared a wildlife sanctuary, with its area extended to 38.8 square kilometers. Over time, significant enhancements have been made, including the construction of a 9.6-kilometer perimeter wall to minimize human-wildlife conflicts and reduce poaching. The Pobitora Rhino Preservation Society, established in 1990, has played a crucial role in conserving the rhino population and raising awareness about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts​.

The ideal time to visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to February, when the climate is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for wildlife viewing. During this period, the sanctuary also becomes a hotspot for birdwatchers, as it turns into a wintering ground for numerous migratory birds. If you’re a bird lover, this is the time to spot species like lesser whistling teal, black-necked stork, red-wattled lapwing, and little egret. However, for those interested in seeing a wide array of migratory birds, the period from October to February is recommended.

Located about 48 kilometers from Guwahati, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road, with the journey typically taking around 1.5 hours. The nearest railhead is at Jagiroad, which has direct train connections from major cities like Kolkata and Guwahati. For those flying in, Guwahati International Airport is the nearest airport, offering direct flights from cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi. Once at the sanctuary, visitors can indulge in activities like jeep and elephant safaris, with the latter offering a unique perspective of the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystem. It’s important to note that safari jeeps and forest entry permits are booked separately, and it’s advised to plan your visit early, especially during peak seasons.

Jeep and Elephant Safari: Explore the sanctuary via a jeep safari, lasting 1.5 to 2 hours, or an elephant safari for an hour, offering an intimate encounter with the sanctuary’s wildlife, especially the one-horned rhinos​​.

Bird Watching: The sanctuary’s marshy lands are ideal for birdwatching, particularly during the migratory season from October to March. You can spot a variety of resident and migratory birds​​.

Haduk Hanging Bridge: Located opposite the sanctuary’s entrance, this bridge offers a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the lush green forest and tranquil lake​​.

Garanga Beel: This serene lake is a haven for waterfowls such as ducks and geese, and is an excellent spot for peaceful observation of aquatic birds​​.

Stay at Eco-Resorts: For an immersive experience, you can stay at eco-resorts like Zizina Otis Resort, offering a rustic and tranquil ambiance amid forestland, with traditional mud houses and tented rooms