Orang National Park

Located on the north banks of the majestic Brahmaputra River in Assam's Darrang and Sonitpur districts, Orang National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park or affectionately dubbed the Mini Kaziranga, is a hidden gem of Northeast India's wilderness. Spanning an area of 78.80 sq. km within the larger 504.23 sq. km Orang Tiger Reserve, this remarkable haven was declared India's 49th Tiger Reserve, offering a thriving ecosystem for nature and wildlife lovers.

Famous for its population of the endangered One-Horned Rhinoceros, the park also shelters majestic elephants, elusive tigers, and the rare pigmy hog among many other fascinating animals in Orang. The wildlife in Orang National Park also includes over 280 bird species, along with 7 species of turtles and tortoises.

History of Orang National Park

Early 1900s : The area now known as Orang National Park was inhabited by a local ethnic community, who later abandoned the land.
1919 : The British government declared the region as the Orang Game Reserve, marking its first step toward wildlife conservation.
1968 : The Assam National Park Act was passed by the Assam government, laying the foundation for future protection efforts.
1985 : The area was designated as a wildlife sanctuary, reinforcing its conservation status
1999 : Orang was elevated to the status of a national park, reflecting its growing ecological importance.
2016 : Recognizing its rich biodiversity and the presence of tigers, Orang was declared India's 49th Tiger Reserve.
Present Day : Orang National Park has become a popular destination for wildlife safaris, drawing nature lovers and tourists alike.

Quick Glance at Orang National Park & Tiger Reserve

Location	Darrang and Sonitpur Districts, Assam, India
Became Wildlife Sanctuary	1985
Established as a National Park	1999
Declared Tiger Reserve	2016
Total Core Area	504.23 Sq. Km
Core Area	279.60 Sq. Km.
Buffer Area	224.63 Sq. Km.
Best Time to Visit	November to April
Popular Wildlife Attractions	One-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, wild boars, pygmy hogs, and various deer species
Park Closed (Monsoon)	July to October
Nearest Airport	Tezpur Airport (32 km) & Guwahati Airport (140 km)
Nearest Railway Station	Rangapara North Railway Station (34 km)

Flora and Fauna of the National Park

Flora in Orang National Park

The flora & fauna in Orang reflect the region's rich ecological diversity, with its grasslands, wetlands, and forested stretches nurturing a wide variety of plant life. The grasslands are dominated by cogon grass, ravenna grass, and kangaroo grass, offering vital grazing areas for herbivores. Water lilies, water hyacinth, and water lettuce flourish in the wetlands. The forest canopy is composed of Indian almond, silk cotton, crepe myrtle, and terminalia trees, providing food and shelter for numerous animals in Orang. Additionally, the park is home to beautiful orchids and medicinal plants like Indian snakeroot and green chiretta.

Fauna in Orang National Park

The wildlife in Orang National Park & tiger reserve is rich and diverse, home to 24 mammalian species including the One-Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, and the rare Pygmy Hog. Endangered species like the Gangetic Dolphin and Chinese Pangolin thrive here alongside vulnerable ones like the Hog Badger.

Best Time to Visit Orang National Park

The ideal time to plan visiting Orang Tiger Reserve is from November to April, when the landscape transforms into a vibrant wildlife haven. Pleasant weather, clear skies, and active animal sightings make this season perfect for a spectacular Orang Wildlife Safari. It's during these months that the true essence of the wildlife in Orang National Park comes alive.

Winter (November to February) : Winter is considered the best time to visit Orang National Park, thanks to its pleasant and cool weather. Daytime temperatures are ideal for wildlife safaris and birdwatching, ranging between 12°C to 25°C. This season offers excellent visibility, making it easier to spot animals like the one-horned rhinoceroses, elephants, and various migratory birds that flock to the park during this period. The dry terrain also allows for comfortable jeep safaris through the forest trails.

Safari Types and Zones in the Park

Safari Types In Orang Tiger Reserve

Jeep Safari : Experience the thrill of a wildlife jungle safari through a Jeep Safari in Orang National Park, perfect for covering more ground and spotting animals like rhinos, tigers, and elephants in their natural habitat.
Elephant Safari : For a more immersive experience, Elephant Safari in Orang offers a closer look at the wild terrain and animals in Orang, allowing you to quietly observe wildlife in an eco-friendly, elevated ride.

Safari Zones In Orang Tiger Reserve

While there are no designated safari zones in Orang National Park, safaris operate within a fixed circuit carefully selected by park authorities. This ensures visitors enjoy the best of Orang Wildlife Safari while minimizing disturbance to the ecosystem. Despite its limited range, this route offers exceptional opportunities to witness the flora & fauna in Orang up close.

Period	Entry-Exit
Morning	07:30am - 09:30am
Afternoon	02:00pm - 03:00pm

Accommodation Options in
and around the Park

Visitors to Orang National Park can choose from a handful of comfortable lodging options nestled in the surrounding regions. From eco-lodges and forest rest houses offering immersive jungle experiences to budget hotels and guesthouses in Tezpur and Darrang, there's something for every traveller. These stays provide convenient access for early wildlife jungle safari excursions and a tranquil escape into nature. For a seamless trip, it's best to secure your bookings early, especially during the best time to Visit Orang.

Major Attractions in and around the Park

Orang National Park & Tiger Reserve is more than just a wildlife haven, it's surrounded by cultural, spiritual, and scenic gems that enrich your journey. From ancient temples and colonial-era ruins to traditional villages and sacred monasteries, each destination complements the wild charm of Orang, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Assam you simply can't miss.

Bhairabkunda
Sualkuchi Village
Madan Kamdev Temple
Bamuni Hills
Patharughat Swaheed Minar

Safari Booking Procedure & Tips

Procedures :

Visit the official website or that of a preferred travel agency like Tour My India.
Register Yourself :
- Provide your Mobile Number, Full Name, Gender, Age, Email ID, and Address to create an account.
- Registration is mandatory for all online bookings.

Choose Safari Type :
- Select your preferred option: Jeep Safari or Elephant Safari.
- You must book each type of safari separately.
Select Date & Time-Slot :
- Pick your desired visit date and available time-slot for the safari.
Person Limit Per Booking :
- Maximum 5 persons per jeep and 3 persons per elephant per ticket.
- Each user can make up to 3 bookings per day in online mode.
Booking Validity :
- A single booking can be extended up to 3 consecutive days, based on your selected dates.
Payment & Confirmation :
- Complete the payment to confirm your reservation.
- You will receive a booking confirmation, which must be carried along on the day of your visit.

Tips :

Leave Pets at Home : The park does not allow pets, so ensure they're cared for elsewhere during your trip.
Dress Smart : Wear neutral, comfortable clothing that blends with nature, avoid bright colours and noisy fabrics.
Respect Wildlife : Never attempt to feed, approach, or provoke animals. Observing from a distance ensures both your safety and theirs.
Listen to the Experts : Follow your guide's instructions closely. Their knowledge enhances both your safety and the safari experience.
Keep the Silence : When spotting big animals like tigers or gaurs, stay quiet. Loud noises can disturb the wildlife or ruin the moment.
Permit Essentials : Entry permits must be shown at the gate, so always carry them along with your booking confirmation.
Carry Original ID : The ID used during online booking must be presented at entry, without exception.
Book Early : Safaris are in high demand, especially during peak season. Pre-book your Orang wildlife safari to avoid missing out.

How to Reach orang National Park?

By Air :

The nearest airport to Orang Tiger Reserve is Tezpur Airport, just 60.5 km away, offering the quickest access via NH15. For wider connectivity, Guwahati Airport is about 138 km from the park and connects to Orang through a well-maintained road network via NH15, suitable for outstation travellers.

By Train :

Travelers can reach Orang National Park by train via the Rowta Bagan Railway Station (RWTB), the nearest railhead at 36.3 km from the park. It takes approximately 1 hour by taxi from RWTB to the main gate. From Guwahati, the journey to RWTB takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes.

By Road :

Orang National Park enjoys strong road connectivity. From Guwahati, the park is 133 km away via NH15, taking around 3 hours and 35 minutes by taxi. Alternatively, travelers can also reach the park via NH27, a slightly longer 175 km route that takes about 4 hours by road.

Best Nearby Destinations to Visit

Orang National Park serves as a gateway to Northeast India's wild and cultural riches. Beyond its own wilderness, the region offers a mix of vibrant cities, sacred landmarks, and thrilling wildlife zones. Whether you're chasing rhinos in Kaziranga or exploring the Brahmaputra's spiritual cities, every nearby destination adds a new dimension to your journey.

Kaziranga National Park
Nameri National park
Guwahati
Tezpur
Mangaldai

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions

Orang National Park, also known as Orang Tiger Reserve, is located on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India, near Darrang and Sonitpur districts.

The best time to visit Orang National Park is from “November to April”, when the weather is ideal for jungle safaris and wildlife sightings across the scenic landscape of Orang Tiger Reserve.

Orang National Park doesn't have specific safari zones. Safaris are conducted on a fixed circuit, offering great chances to spot tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

No, private vehicles are not allowed inside Orang Tiger Reserve. Visitors must book official Jeep or Elephant Safaris through the park's portal for guided exploration of the permitted circuit.

Orang National Park offers Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari, both providing unique wildlife viewing experiences through the limited safari circuit of Orang Tiger Reserve.

While exact safari timings for Orang National Park aren't specified, visitors should note that safari activities are currently suspended from May 15, 2024, until further notice for safety and conservation.

A typical safari ride in Orang National Park lasts between 1 to 2 hours, offering a rewarding journey through the park's grasslands, forests, and wetland ecosystems.

Orang National Park is home to tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, pygmy hogs, Bengal floricans, and over 280 bird species, making every safari in Orang Tiger Reserve an exciting wildlife experience.

Accommodation options near Orang National Park range from eco-resorts to forest lodges. These stay options offer comfort and proximity to the main gate of Orang Tiger Reserve.