Top 10 wildlife safari in north east India

North East India is a natural wonderland known for its abundant biodiversity and healthy ecosystem that sustains a variety of rare and endangered species. Wildlife safari in North-East India is one of the top tourist destinations in India due to its stunning natural beauty, cultural resilience and natural majesty. The diverse animals and picturesque environment of these sanctuaries attract tourists from far and wide.

For those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife, this region surrounded by mountains, rivers and dense forests offers a unique experience. In this article we have mentioned the top 10 wildlife safaris in North East India. The region is as unique as it is diverse, ranging from the elusive red panda of Arunachal Pradesh to the one-horned rhinoceros of Assam.

As eco-tourism grows in popularity, people looking for intensive wildlife safaris and eco-friendly activities are increasingly attracted to the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of North East India.

Nature lovers can go on an unforgettable trip to the eight states of North-Eastern India – Tripura, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim. Travelers are invited to fall in love with nature in this area, which is rich in flora and animals.

10 Best wildlife safaris in north east India: National Parks and Sanctuaries

Take a wildlife safari tour in North East India to get away from the digital world and reconnect with nature! Explore the immaculate splendor of lush green forests, endangered animals like the red panda and one-horned rhinoceros and serene river surroundings that provide true respite from the stresses of life.

Here, we are taking a look at the top ten wildlife safari places in Northeast India that you must visit to see the remarkable flora and animals of the region up close. There are countless animal sanctuaries and national parks in Northeast India due to the region’s abundant forest cover and wildlife-friendly environment. Many rare and endangered animal species, birds, reptiles etc. can be seen here. If you want to know more about India’s abundant wildlife then experience these best wildlife safaris in Northeast India.

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Let’s explore these incredible Top 10 wildlife safaris in North East India that you must visit:

1. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Overview: The impressive number of one-horned rhinoceros in Kaziranga National Park has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notably, this national park is home to two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros, and is a famous tiger reserve with a large tiger population.

The vast number of endangered animal species in Kaziranga National Park in Assam has made it a popular destination. It is also an ideal sanctuary for many endangered species due to its rich grasslands and riverine environment.

Wildlife Highlights: The famous one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, elephant, swamp deer, and a remarkable array of bird species can all be found in the park.
Safari Options: Tourists can experience Kaziranga up close with the park’s diverse animals by going on vehicle safaris, elephant-back safaris, or bird-watching tours.

Best Time to Visit: Since the park remains closed during the rainy season, November to April is the best time to visit.

2. Manas National Park, Assam

Along the slopes of the Himalayas, Manas National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a breathtaking combination of distinctive animals and picturesque landscapes. The park is named after the magnificent Mansa River, which is also the name of the serpent goddess “Mansa”.

It is the main tributary of the Brahmaputra River, which flows through the center of Manas National Park. It is famous for its biodiversity and serves as an important habitat for many endangered species.

Wildlife Highlights: Major species found here include the majestic Bengal tiger, hispid rabbit, pygmy hog, golden langur, Assam roofed tortoise and red panda.

Safari Options: To explore the unique habitats of Manas, tourists can opt for jeep safaris, river rafting excursions and elephant safaris.

The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is ideal for river sports and safaris.

3. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh

Famous for its breathtaking heights, Namdapha National Park is home to unusual fauna that thrive in both alpine and deep forest environments. It attracts tourists from all over India and abroad. It covers 1,985 square kilometers of land and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. One of India’s most unique ecosystems, the high altitude of the park offers a variety of habitats.

Wildlife Highlights: Among the many mammal and bird species, see the rare snow leopard, clouded leopard, red panda, Tiger and elephant. A bird lover’s paradise, home to important species like Indian hornbill, white-bellied heron, blue-naped pittas, snowy-throated babbler and jungle fowl.

Safari Options: Since there are no jeep safaris available, the best experience is a jungle walk and bird watching tour in Namdapha. This makes it an ideal place for nature photographers and trekking enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit: November to March is the ideal time to visit due to cool and trekking-friendly weather.

4. Nameri National Park, Assam

Overview: Nameri is a lesser-known gem ideal for eco-tourism and birdwatching enthusiasts. The park’s unique riverine habitat along the Jia Bhoroli River is home to a rich variety of migratory birds and animal species.

Wildlife highlights include tigers, leopards, wild boars, gaur, sambar, elephants and the endangered white-winged wood duck. Nameri is a paradise for bird lovers due to the innumerable migratory birds that call it home. This is where you can find the famous Golden Masheer fish, which grow about 3 to 9 feet long.

Safari options include guided treks, bird-watching tours, swimming and river rafting excursions on the Jia Bhoroli River. Apart from seeing animals in their natural habitat, there are plenty of other activities to do. You can experience rafting, go on safari and enjoy the breathtaking views.

The best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is good for trekking and the river level is suitable for rafting.

5. Balphakram National Park, Meghalaya

Balphakram National Park, sometimes called the “Land of Spirits”, is important to the mythology of the Garo tribe and offers a distinctive diversity of flora and animals in addition to a strange and enchanting environment. Our former Prime Minister, Late Shri Rajiv Gandhi, designated Balpakram, which translates to “land of the perpetual winds, as a National Park on December 27, 1987.

Because the local people consider Balpakram as the home of the soul or a place from where they travel to the other world. Many rock formations and locations have unique stories to tell.

Wildlife Highlights: A treasure trove for wildlife lovers, the park is home to rare species like the red panda, lesser panda and wild water buffalo as well as a variety of bird species.

Safari Options: Although the park does not offer traditional safaris, guests can take advantage of nature walks, photography tours, and bird-watching trips with knowledgeable guides.

October to March is the best time to visit due to the clear weather, which is perfect for exploring the natural world.

6. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam

One of the rare places where river dolphins can be seen, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a river wonderland famous for its unique environment. It is divided into seven parts, one of which is wetland, and six are covered with grassland and dense forest. The river systems and wetlands in the park provide a rich habitat for a variety of animals.

Wildlife Highlights: See a variety of migratory species that visit the park seasonally, as well as the uncommon Ganges river dolphins, crested langurs and wild horses. Royal Bengal Tiger, Hoolock Gibbons, Leopard, White-winged Wood Duck, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, jerdon’s babbler, white-bellied heron, black-breasted parrotbill, pala fish eagle, swamp partridge, Bengal florican, striped grassbird and others are among the additional animals and birds that can be seen here.

Safari Options: Dibru-Saikhowa offers river cruises, boat safaris and guided nature trails to explore the rivers and observe the aquatic and terrestrial fauna of the park.

Best Time to Visit: November to April is the ideal time to visit to avoid the rainy season and take advantage of stable river levels for safaris.

7. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, sometimes called “Mini Kaziranga”, is famous for its large number of one-horned rhinoceros. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, a small rhinoceros sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park are the three most important sanctuaries for Indian rhinoceros conservation.

Wildlife Highlights: The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species, leopards and wild boars, apart from the one-horned rhinoceros. The 38 km long sanctuary has a marshy area which is ideal for habitat of wild buffaloes, boars and rhinos.

Safari Options: For closer contact with the fauna of the sanctuary, tourists can enjoy horse riding safaris, car safaris and bird-watching tours in Pobitora.

The park is open from November to February, and the weather is perfect for outdoor safaris, so this is the best time to visit.

8. Sirohi National Park, Manipur

Located near the India-Myanmar border, Sirohi National Park is a picturesque place in Manipur. It is known for the rare Shirui flower, which blooms only once a year. Despite its small size, the greenery and presence of the park makes everyone crazy about it.

Wildlife Highlights: This park is a must-visit for those interested in rare plant and animal species, as it is home to Blyth’s tragopan, hillock gibbon and clouded leopards, in addition to the shirui lily. Rich flora and many flower species can be found in the national park.

The main attraction of the park is the “Sirohi Lily”, a flower that grows naturally there. Nature lovers are attracted to the park by the immense beauty of the valley, the diversity of its animal life etc.

Safari Options: Although traditional safari tours are not available, guests can still experience the park by going on expert-led jungle treks and bird-watching tours.

The best time to visit is between April and June, when the park is transformed into a stunning display of color by the blooming Shirui lilies.

9. Mouling National Park, Arunachal Pradesh

One of the lesser known treasures of Northeast India is Mauling National Park, located in the untouched region of Arunachal Pradesh. Mouling is an isolated national park in Yingkiong, named after the high peak called “Mouling”. Malling National Park has all the facilities available for trekking, rafting and fishing, making it an ideal place for adventures.

The park was established in 1986 and covers an area of approximately 483 square kilometres. It is located in the Eastern Himalayas, a region renowned for its remarkable biodiversity. The term “mauling” comes from a local word meaning “red poison”, alluding to the poisonous plants that are abundant in the park. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which range from high-altitude alpine areas to lush lowland forests, provide home to a remarkable array of plants and animals.

Wildlife Highlights: With a huge variety of animals that reflect the vast biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas, Mauling National Park is a paradise for wildlife lovers. Notable fauna of the area include the endangered takin, red panda, elephant, wild boar, deer, Bengal tiger, clouded leopard and a rare goat-antelope species. Mauling is a paradise for bird lovers with sightings of species like Himalayan monal, black eagle and tragopan. The diversity of butterflies, reptiles and amphibians is astonishing.

Safari Options: Unlike many other national parks, traditional jeep and elephant safaris are not available in Mauling National Park. Instead, trekking and birdwatching trips are the main ways to explore the area, giving tourists the chance to see pristine nature up close. With the assistance of local experts, trekking through the lush forests and rocky terrain of the park provides an immersive experience and a chance to see the animals in their native habitat.

The best time to visit Mauling National Park is from November to March, when the weather is cool and conducive for hiking. The sky is usually clear at this time, which improves vision and makes it easier to spot wildlife.

It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as roads can become slippery and impassable due to excessive rainfall.

10. Bison (Rajbari) National Park, Tripura

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Tripura is home to the Bison (Rajbari) National Park, famous for its diverse fauna, rolling hills and dense forests. The park is named after the Indian bison, also known as Gaur, a majestic animal that roams freely within its boundaries. Its lush green plains and abundant biodiversity make it an ideal place for bison (Indian Gaur). The park’s tranquil atmosphere and diverse scenery make it an ideal place for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Wildlife Highlights: Apart from the Indian bison, you can spot golden langurs, pheasants, deer, wild boars, leopards and some bird species here.

Safari Options: The park offers guided nature walks and jeep safaris so guests can see wildlife in a lush environment. A quiet, up-close look at the park’s plants and animals can be found by following the nature paths.

Best Time to Visit: November to April is an ideal time to visit due to the pleasant weather, which is ideal for nature walks and safaris. Since the monsoon season brings with it a lot of rain, it is best to avoid traveling between June and September.

Tips for Planning Top 10 Wildlife Safaris in North East India

Permits: Be sure to confirm the requirements and make the necessary arrangements in advance, as some parks may require an entry permit, especially for visitors coming from abroad.

The best time to visit is between November and April, when most of the wildlife parks in Northeast India are open, so plan appropriately to avoid monsoon closures.

Guided Safaris: Choosing a guided safari or hiking tour will enhance your experience and guarantee your safety while you explore these spectacular areas.

Ethical Tourism: Respect the park’s rules by staying quiet, using eco-friendly methods and causing as little disruption as possible to wildlife habitats. This is known as ethical tourism.

Conclusion

From vehicle safaris and boat cruises to intense jungle treks and bird-watching trips, North East India offers the most diverse wildlife safari experiences in the country. Travelers may encounter unusual and endangered species while exploring untouched wilderness areas in this extraordinary location. The famous rhinos of Kaziranga or the river dolphins of Dibru-Saikhowa are two places that offer wildlife lovers an experience they will not soon forget. Plan a trip to Northeast India with an emphasis on wildlife and experience an unforgettable, environmentally responsible trip that respects the region’s remarkable biodiversity.