The wildlife tourism season in Assam is drawing to a close, as authorities have announced the closure dates for Kaziranga National Park and Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve. The Divisional Forest Officer of Mangaldai Wildlife Division has confirmed the suspension of tourist activities, including jeep and elephant safaris, starting in mid-May. Here’s a detailed look at these developments and their implications for tourists and conservation efforts.
Closure of Tourist Activities:
Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve
The latest announcement from the Divisional Forest Officer highlights that Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve will suspend jeep and elephant safaris starting May 15, 2024. This decision aligns with the typical seasonal closure for Assam’s wildlife reserves, aimed at ensuring visitor safety and aiding environmental conservation. The park authorities emphasized the need for temporary closure to protect the fragile ecosystem during the off-season.
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Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve
Before this, Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve had already announced the closure of elephant safaris from May 1 and jeep safaris from May 16. The closures are consistent with the customary pattern in Assam, where the tourist season for national parks typically runs from October to mid-May, matching the wildlife migration and weather patterns.
Record-Breaking Tourist Season
Visitor Statistics
During the 2023-24 season, Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve saw a record influx of tourists, with the highest number of visitors since its inception. The park recorded 327,493 visitors, comprising 313,574 domestic tourists and 13,919 international visitors. This surge in tourism highlights the park’s growing popularity, especially for its iconic one-horned rhinoceros.
Increased Tourism Across Divisions
The Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Nagaon Wildlife Division, and Bishwanath Wildlife Division also reported significant increases in tourist arrivals and revenue during the same period. These numbers underscore Assam’s appeal as a premier wildlife destination in India.
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Key Attractions and Activities
Safaris and Outdoor Activities
The main attractions during the tourist season included jungle safaris and elephant rides, which started after the monsoon season in October 2023. Other popular activities included cycling in the Karbi-Anglong area, dolphin-watching through boat safaris, and trekking in the Panbari forest range and Chirang.
Local Tourism Impact
The increased tourist footfall also boosted local businesses, particularly restaurants and eco-tourism ventures. The tourism sector benefited from the increased attention, helping to promote local economies and conservation efforts.
Planning for Future Visits
Reopening
For those planning future trips, the national parks in Assam typically reopen in October, following the monsoon season. For more information on how to plan your trip to Kaziranga, see the Kaziranga National Park reopening announcement and details on reaching the park by air, rail, and road.
Tour Packages
For a hassle-free visit to Kaziranga National Park and Orang National Park, consider exploring available tour packages such as the 3 Days Kaziranga Tour from Guwahati or the 5 Days Kaziranga Guwahati Tour. These packages offer a well-rounded experience of Assam’s wildlife and natural beauty.
Conclusion
The closure of Kaziranga and Orang National Parks signals the end of a successful tourist season in Assam. Despite the temporary suspension, these parks remain top destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, with plans to reopen in October. For more insights on Kaziranga National Park, including its unique features, read Why Kaziranga National Park is Famous – 10 Interesting Facts.
FAQs:
FAQ 1: When are Kaziranga and Orang National Parks closing for the season?
Answer: Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve are closing on May 15, 2024, while Kaziranga National Park is suspending elephant safaris on May 1 and jeep safaris on May 16. This closure is part of the seasonal pattern observed in Assam. For details, read Kaziranga National Park & Orang National Park Closing Dates.
FAQ 2: When will Kaziranga and Orang National Parks reopen for tourism?
Answer: The parks usually reopen in October, following the monsoon season. This timing aligns with wildlife migration patterns and the best weather for visitors. More information about the reopening can be found at Kaziranga National Park Reopens for the 2023-24 Season.
FAQ 3: How can I reach Kaziranga National Park?
Answer: Kaziranga National Park is accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is in Guwahati, from where visitors can travel by road to the park. For a comprehensive guide on reaching the park, check How to Reach Kaziranga National Park.
FAQ 4: What are some interesting facts about Kaziranga National Park?
Answer: Kaziranga is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Learn more fascinating facts in the article Why Kaziranga National Park is Famous.
FAQ 5: What tour packages are available for Kaziranga National Park?
Answer: Several tour packages are available for exploring Kaziranga National Park and its surroundings. Popular options include the 3 Days Kaziranga Tour from Guwahati and the 5 Days Kaziranga Guwahati Tour. These packages provide a complete experience of Assam’s natural beauty and wildlife.
