From Assam’s renowned tea gardens and Meghalaya’s iconic living root bridges to Nagaland’s heroic headhunters and Arunachal Pradesh’s tattooed women, Northeast India promises excitement at every turn.

Adding to its appeal are the numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that capture the imagination of visitors. Let’s delve into some of the renowned wildlife sanctuaries in this captivating region to discover more about its rich biodiversity.

5 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in Northeast India

(1) Kaziranga National Park- Assam
Kaziranga National Park, located in Assam, stands out as premier destination among Northeast India’s national parks, renowned for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. Abundant in biodiversity, the park offers a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting sightings of wild water buffalo, Asiatic elephants, leopards, Royal Bengal tigers, and diverse species of migratory birds. Safari options are available during the tourist seasons, providing an immersive experience in this natural wonderland.

Best time to travel: October to June
Entry Fee: 100/- for Indians, 650/- for Foreigners
Elephant Safaris: 900/- for Indians and 1950/- for Foreigners
Still Camera: 100/- for Indians and 200/- for Foreigners.

(2) Manas National Park- Assam

Manas National Park, situated in Assam, is not only a national park but also designated as a Biosphere Reserve, a Project Tiger Reserve, and a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. Additionally, it serves as an Elephant Reserve. This diverse ecosystem is home to rare species such as the red panda and golden langur. Besides its rich wildlife, the park is renowned for its stunning landscape. Visitors can enjoy elephant safaris, offering opportunities to spot tigers and rhinos amidst the picturesque surroundings.

Best time to travel: October to April
Entry Fee: 20/- for Indians, 250/- for Foreigners
JeepSafari: 300/- per head
Still Camera: 50/- for Indians and 500/- for Indians.

(3) Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Guwahati, Assam

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its thriving population of One-horned Rhinoceros and diverse avian inhabitants. With the largest concentration of rhinos worldwide, the sanctuary’s marshy terrain provides an ideal habitat for these majestic creatures. Moreover, the sanctuary boasts nearly 190 bird species, including endangered ones like the Lesser Adjutant, Spot-billed Pelican, and White-bellied Heron. Its rich avifauna has earned Pobitora the moniker ’Bharatpur of the East”, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Best time to travel: November to February
Entry Fee: 50/- for Indians, 500/- for Foreigners
Jeep Safari: INR 950 / Seat (Indian) | INR 2300 (Foreigner)
                    INR 3250 / Jeep (Indian) | INR 6850 / Jeep (Foreigner)

 (4) Namdapha National Park, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

Namdapha National Park, the largest in Northeast India and the third-largest in the country, is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Nestled along the banks of the Noa - Dihing River and embraced by towering peaks, the park offers stunning vistas and an exhilarating atmosphere. Its most notable feature is its diverse feline inhabitants, including the Leopard, and Tiger. Additionally, bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting Indian Hornbills, Jungle Fowls, Blue-napped Pittas, Woodpeckers, Kingfishers, and a plethora of other avian species within the park’s boundaries.

Best time to travel: November to February
Entry Fee: 50/- for Indians, 350/- for Foreigners
Safari: 100/- per head
Still Camera: 75/- per head

(5) Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhalukpong, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled between the Kameng and Pakke river, Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary offers an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife due to its abundant resources. Initially established to safeguard the population of Royal Bengal Tigers, the sanctuary evolved into the Pakke Tiger Reserve in 2002, dedicated to ensuring optimal conditions for tiger’s conservation. Beyond its role as a tiger reserve, Pakhui is home to over 300 bird species and a variety of other animals. Residents include the Himalayan Black Beer, Barking Deer, Wild Dog, Jackal, Clouded Leopard, Jungle Cat, Wild Boar, and many more fascinating species.

Best time to travel: November to April
Entry Fee: 40/- for Indians, 500/- for Foreigners
Safari: INR 4,000/- JEEP Maximum 6 persons (04 Adult & 2 Children (b/w – 5 to 12 years) are allowed in one Jeep
Elephant Safari: INR 1,000/- PER PERSON (Maximum 04 person in one trip)
Still Camera: 75/- per head