In Depth
Situated in the mystical village of Mayong, famous for folklore and ancient traditions, Pobitora blends natural beauty, conservation success, and cultural intrigue into a single destination. Despite covering only 38.81 sq km, Pobitora plays a vital role in rhino conservation and serves as a critical source population under the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV 2020) program.
About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary consists of two major forest blocks: Rajamayong Reserve Forest and Pobitora Reserve Forest. While the Rajamayong hills shelter species such as leopard, capped langur, porcupine, pangolin, and civet cat, the expansive floodplain grasslands provide ideal habitat for rhinos, wild water buffalo, wild boars, jackals, and monitor lizards.
Although small in size, Pobitora boasts an extraordinary ecological profile. Over 107 rhinos inhabit just 16 sq km of prime grassland, making it the densest rhino habitat on Earth. Apart from mammals, the sanctuary hosts more than 375 bird species, making it a major birding destination in Northeast India.
Declared a Reserved Forest in 1971 and officially notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1987, Pobitora has emerged as one of India's greatest conservation success stories.
Wildlife in Pobitora
Mammals
Indian One Horned Rhinoceros
Asiatic Water Buffalo
Leopard
Wild Boar
Barking Deer
Civet Cat
Jackal
Pangolin
Birdlife
Over 2000 migratory birds during winter
Kingfishers, herons, storks, pelicans, fishing eagles, and wetland birds
Reptiles & Amphibians
Monitor lizards
Marshland snakes
Softshell turtles
Amphibians and wetland reptiles
Pobitora also supports 22 species of mammals, 27 reptiles, 80 butterflies, 9 amphibians, and 8 turtle species, making it one of the most biodiverse protected areas in Assam.
Rhino Conservation and Indian Rhino Vision 2020
Due to its high rhino density, Pobitora faced habitat pressure and increasing risks of human-wildlife conflict. Under Indian Rhino Vision 2020, eight rhinos were successfully translocated from Pobitora to Manas National Park between 2008 and 2011 to expand rhino populations across Assam.
This initiative, supported by the Assam Forest Department, WWF India, International Rhino Foundation, and US Fish & Wildlife Service, helped stabilize Pobitora's ecosystem while strengthening rhino conservation statewide.
Area Overview and Landscape
Pobitora lies in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by low hillocks such as Kasasila, Hatimuria, Boha, Kardia, Kamarpur, Mitoni, Govardan, and Panbari hills. The sanctuary features a mosaic of marshland wetlands, tall elephant grass, water bodies, and forest patches.
These landscapes make Pobitora not only a rhino stronghold but also a paradise for photographers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Climate and Rainfall
Rainfall: 251 mm annually
Climate: Subtropical with humid summers and pleasant winters
The monsoon season floods the wetlands and rejuvenates grasslands, while winters attract thousands of migratory birds.
Best Time to Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit Pobitora is November to April, when the weather is pleasant, wildlife sightings are frequent, and safari operations run smoothly. The winter months from November to February are ideal for birdwatching and rhino photography.
Safari Experience at Pobitora
Pobitora offers both Jeep Safaris and Elephant Safaris, allowing visitors to explore grasslands, wetlands, and forest trails.
Pobitora Safari Booking Timings
This is a Registered Private Travel Agency (GTI Travels Pvt Ltd). Both safaris running status depend on weather conditions.
Full Day Jeep: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM @ INR 9500 Indian | INR 13500 (foreigner)
Elephant Ride: 6:30 AM - 7:30 AM | 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Pobitora Jeep safari is non sharing basis. Child below 4 years is complimentary and above 4 years treated as an adult & safari duration only one hour.
Elephant safari available only in morning slot : 6:30 am - 7:30 am or 7:30 to 8 :30 . According to the seats availability of the slots will be determined.
Pobitora Online Safari Booking
The Best way to ensure that you have an amazing time observing wildlife at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is to book your reservation prior to your visit which can be done effortlessly via online safari booking. However, the best time to visit is from November to February along with the limited entries in the sanctuary area. Hence, to avoid disappointment especially in the peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. And, the timings of the Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari.
Important Notes For Pobitora Safari Booking
The First thing you should know is that the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is managed by the Guwahati Wildlife Division which functions under the Forest Ministry of the Assam Government.
Advance booking for the safari is allowed through the Pobitora online booking procedure. However, online booking is subject to the availability of slots and vehicles.
Generally, most of the safari seats are booked in advance via the online booking process. So, it is best advised to book your safari tickets early with an advanced online ticket booking procedure.
How to Reach Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?
By Air : Nearest Airport : Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Borjhar, Guwahati, Kamrup (M), Assam, 781015., Distance : Range HQ, Pobitora WL Range - 62 km. (via Chandrapur).
By Rail : Nearest Railway Station : Jagiroad Railway Station, Jagiroad, Morigaon, Assam. Distance : 31 km.
Park Area, Location and Coordinates
Where to Stay Near Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?
Selecting the right places to stay can significantly enhance your experience of visiting Pobitora National Park in Assam, India. While getting ready for a wildlife trip to Pobitora National Park, you will also be required to reserve the finest accommodation option to make your trip memorable. Staying at good places always brings a good experience and it upgrades the travel experience of any traveler. Here we list some of the top-rated places to stay in Resorts in Pobitora National Park.
- Mystique Mayong Eco ResortAddress : Pobitora Rd, Roja, Mayang, Hatimuria, Morigaon, Assam 782411Phone Numer : +91 7099022860, 7099096763, 7099096764, 7099096765
- Zizina Otis ResortAddress : Near Range Office Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Pobitora Rd, Raja Mayang, Morigaon, Assam 782411Phone Numer : +91 7086873676, 98540-30506
- Aranya Lodge (A government-run forest lodge)Address : Pobitora Forest Range Office Rd, Raja Mayang, Mayang, Assam 782411Phone Numer : +91 9394686204, 7896266990
- Nirvana Green Resort- PobitoraAddress : Near Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary Mayong, Dist, Guwahati, Assam 782411Phone Numer : +91 86384 02240, 7099022860, 7099096763/64/65Website : N/A
- Pobitora Village Eco CampiAddress : Pobitora Road, Kalshilapar, Assam 782411Phone Numer : 1800 570 9930, +91 84020 93040, 9230997539, 8402093040Website : https://pobitoravillageecocamp.in
Whom to Contact for Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?
- Divisional Forest Officer, Guwahati Wildlife Division, Guwahati-781009.Tel.: (0361)2550207(R), 09435031789 (Mobile)
- Range Officer, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Mayang, Dist.- MorigaonTel.: (03678)248157(O)
Why Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?
Highest rhino density in the world
Easy access from Guwahati
Excellent jeep and elephant safari experiences
Major birdwatching destination in Assam
Active community-based conservation success stories
Ideal for short wildlife trips and weekend getaways
Quick Info Table on Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Morigaon District, Assam |
| Distance from Guwahati | 60 km |
| Park Area | 38.81 sq km |
| Famous For | Highest density of one horned rhinos |
| Established | Reserved Forest in 1971, Wildlife Sanctuary in 1987 |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April |
| Safari Types | Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari |
| Core Zone | Pobitora Wildlife Range |
| Nearest Airport | Guwahati Airport (62 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Jagiroad Railway Station (31 km) |
| Accommodation | Resorts, forest lodge, eco camps |
FAQs on Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary