Assam has officially begun its 2026-27 wildlife tourism season, with Manas National Park reopening to visitors on October 2. The reopening marks the return of tourists to one of the state’s major wildlife destinations after the annual monsoon closure.
Meanwhile, Kaziranga National Park is scheduled to welcome visitors from October 3. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary will follow on October 13, completing the initial reopening schedule for three of Assam’s popular wildlife tourism destinations.
The reopening is expected to bring renewed activity to the state’s tourism sector. It will also create opportunities for visitors to explore Assam’s forests, grasslands, rivers and rich biodiversity.
Manas National Park Reopens to Visitors
Located along the India-Bhutan border, Manas National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic landscape. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to several endangered species and attracts nature enthusiasts from across India and abroad.
The park reopened on October 2, allowing visitors to resume wildlife experiences following the seasonal closure.
However, tourists should take note of the weekly closure schedule for different ranges. Bansbari remains closed on Tuesdays, Bhuyanpara on Thursdays, Panbari on Fridays and Kuklung on Wednesdays.
Visitors are advised to check the operational status of their preferred range before planning a safari.
Kaziranga National Park to Welcome Tourists from October 3
One of Assam’s most recognised wildlife destinations, Kaziranga National Park, is set to reopen on October 3.
Famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses, Kaziranga attracts wildlife photographers, researchers and tourists throughout the season.
Initially, jeep safaris will operate in the Central or Kohora range and the Western or Bagori range. The scheduled safari timings are 7:30 am to 10 am for the morning session and 1:30 pm to 3 pm for the afternoon session.
Elephant safaris are scheduled to resume from November 1.
The park’s reopening is expected to attract visitors eager to experience its grasslands, wetlands and wildlife habitats.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Reopen on October 13
Another important destination on Assam’s wildlife tourism map, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, is scheduled to reopen on October 13.
Situated in Morigaon district, Pobitora is particularly known for its high density of one-horned rhinoceroses. Its relatively accessible location also makes it a popular destination for tourists visiting Guwahati.
The sanctuary recorded 35,371 visitors during the previous tourism season, reflecting continued interest in its wildlife experiences.
Tourist Footfall Rises Across Assam’s Wildlife Destinations
Assam’s wildlife destinations have recorded notable visitor numbers in recent years.
Kaziranga welcomed 468,147 visitors during the 2025-26 tourism season, compared with 406,564 in the preceding season. The total included 437,673 Indian tourists and 30,474 foreign visitors.
Manas also registered growth in visitor numbers. The park received 63,723 tourists during the reported season, compared with 52,962 in 2021-22. Among the visitors, 58,772 were Indian tourists and 4,951 were international visitors.
These figures highlight the role of wildlife tourism in Assam’s broader tourism economy.
Reopening Expected to Support Local Tourism
The reopening of the parks is expected to benefit tourism-related businesses and communities in surrounding areas.
Hotels, homestays, safari operators, transport providers, guides and local businesses often depend on the annual wildlife tourism season.
Moreover, the return of visitors creates opportunities to promote responsible tourism and awareness about wildlife conservation.
Assam’s national parks and sanctuaries also play an important role in protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitats.
Visitors Advised to Follow Park Guidelines
Tourists planning visits should follow the rules issued by park authorities. Safari availability, entry timings and access to particular ranges may depend on weather conditions and administrative decisions.
Visitors should also avoid littering, disturbing animals or engaging in activities that could affect the natural environment.
With Manas reopening on October 2, Kaziranga on October 3 and Pobitora scheduled for October 13, Assam is preparing for another wildlife tourism season.
The reopening offers visitors an opportunity to experience the state’s natural heritage while supporting conservation and local livelihoods.