Declared a National Park on 13 April 1999, Orang National Park, often referred to as the "Mini Kaziranga," spans 78.81 sq. km along the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River in Darrang and Sonitpur districts of Assam. With its striking landscape of grasslands, marshes, and riverine ecosystems, Orang shares a visual and ecological resemblance to the iconic Kaziranga, making it an important conservation site for Assam’s biodiversity.
Location and Accessibility
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Distance from Tezpur: 32 km
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Distance from Guwahati: 140 km
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Nearest Airport: Salonibari (Tezpur) – 10 km
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Nearest Railway Stations: Salonibari (41 km), Rangapara
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By Road: Easily accessible via NH 52 and local roads from Orang town and Dhansirimukh
A Legacy of Conservation
Originally inhabited by local tribes until the early 1900s, the area was abandoned due to a deadly epidemic. In 1915, it was declared Orang Game Reserve by the British. Later, it was designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1985, briefly renamed as Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992, and finally notified as Orang National Park in 1999.
Wildlife Diversity in Orang National Park
Orang is home to a stunning variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and aquatic life, making it a biodiversity hotspot:
Iconic Species:
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Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) – ~68 individuals
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Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) – ~19 individuals
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Asiatic Elephant, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, Pygmy Hog (Critically Endangered)
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Gangetic River Dolphin, Leopard Cat, Fishing Cat, Indian Pangolin
Bird Watching Paradise:
With over 222 bird species recorded, Orang is a bird lover’s dream:
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Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) – Threatened, 30–40 individuals
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Spot-billed Pelican, Black-necked Stork, Greater & Lesser Adjutant Stork
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Mallards, Gadwalls, Ruddy Shelduck, Pintail, Hornbills
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Rare migratory visitors like the American White Pelican have also been spotted.
Reptiles and Aquatic Life:
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7 species of Turtles and Tortoises: Common types include Lissemys punctata, Kachuga tecta
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Snakes: Indian Rock Python, King Cobra, Black Krait, Cobra
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Monitor Lizards, Otters
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50+ species of freshwater fish populate the rivers and channels
Safari Timings & Visitor Info
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Safari Hours: Morning and afternoon; elephant safaris are preferred for deeper jungle exploration
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Entry Permit: Required in advance from the Divisional Forest Officer, Mangaldoi
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Best Time to Visit: October to April
Where to Stay
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Inside Park: A small forest rest house and one dormitory available
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Nearby: Multiple accommodations in Tezpur, ideal for overnight stays and park excursions
How to Reach Orang National Park
By Air:
By Rail:
By Road:
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Frequent buses to Tezpur from all over Assam
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Gravel roads connect Orang to NH 52 near Dhansirimukh, just 15 km from the sanctuary gate
Why Visit Orang National Park?
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, bird watcher, or a curious traveler, Orang offers an untouched natural experience rich in rare fauna and tranquil landscapes. Its quiet charm and ecological significance make it a hidden gem among India’s national parks.
