How many national park in assam

How Many National Park in Assam? A Complete List for 2025

Published on June 3, 2025
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9 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • Do you know how many national park in Assam? Assam is home to eight national parks, including the iconic Kaziranga and Manas, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • These parks safeguard endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, golden langur, and Bengal tiger, contributing to global biodiversity.
  • Assam’s national parks are critical for eco-tourism, drawing nature lovers and providing sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

Table of Contents

Can you imagine a one-horned rhinoceros grazing peacefully with exotic birds soaring above? This isn’t a scene from a wildlife documentary; it’s a typical day in Assam’s national parks. Assam is a hotspot of remarkable diversity. The rich landscape of the state, from rolling hills to vast grasslands, harbors some of India’s most precious wildlife treasures.

When people ask, “How many national park in Assam?” They’re often surprised to learn about this region’s wealth of protected areas. Assam has eight national parks, which is quite huge compared to other states. These national parks are not just a few dots on a geographical map; they are breathing, living ecosystems where nature can be captured at its best.

So, let’s take a closer look at these natural treasures and understand why they are integral to preserving India’s rich biodiversity.

How Many National Parks Are in Assam?

Assam proudly hosts eight national parks, making it a leader in wildlife preservation in India. These parks range from UNESCO-recognized heritage sites to recently established gems. The table below answers how many national park in Assam, along with their key features:

Park NameEstablishedFamous ForRamona
Kaziranga1974One-horned Rhinoceros430
Manas1990Tiger Reserve500
Dibru-Saikhowa1999Migratory Birds340
Orang1999Mini Kaziranga78.8
Nameri1998Bird Watching200
Raimona2021Golden Langur422
Dihing Patkai2021Rainforest Ecosystem111.19
Shikna Jwhwlao2024Biodiversity Hotspot321.9
National Parks in Assam

A Closer Look at Assam’s National Parks

How many national parks in Assam are dedicated to conservation? Each of Assam‘s eight national parks tells its own unique story. These parks protect some of Earth’s most amazing creatures, from the famous one-horned rhinos to rare birds. Let’s explore what makes each park special and whether they have any link with biosphere reserves in India:

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga’s remarkable ecosystem is shaped by the dynamic floodplains of the Brahmaputra River. Its mosaic of tall grasslands, marshes, and dense tropical forests creates a rich habitat that sustains complex food webs. The park’s seasonal monsoons rejuvenate the soil and attract migratory birds, making it a critical zone for avian biodiversity. Conservationists worldwide recognize Kaziranga as a model for rhino protection and ecosystem balance.

  • Area: 430 square kilometers.
  • Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Home to over 70% of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros (1,855 rhinos).
  • It also shelters 85 tigers, 1,246 elephants, and rare species like eastern swamp deer and hog deer.
  • Hosts 480 bird species, including 25 globally threatened species.
  • Offers morning elephant safaris for close wildlife encounters.
how many national park in assam

Manas National Park

Manas offers an extraordinary fusion of forest and riverine landscapes, forming a critical corridor between the Indian plains and Bhutanese hills. This terrain diversity nurtures a rare collection of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic or endangered. The park’s cultural relevance is equally strong, as indigenous communities have historically depended on its resources and are now vital partners in its conservation programs.

  • Area: 500 square kilometers along the Bhutan border.
  • Transitioned from a hunting ground in 1928 to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
  • Protects 60 mammal species, including pygmy hog and golden langur.
  • Home to 31 tigers, over 1,000 elephants, and 200+ butterfly species.
  • Birdwatchers can spot 500 bird species.
  • It functions as a critical wildlife corridor between India and Bhutan.

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park

What sets Dibru-Saikhowa apart is its unique island ecosystem, born at the confluence of major rivers like the Brahmaputra and Dibru. The park’s flood-dependent ecology supports a remarkable resilience in plant and animal life. Its grassland-scrub-forest mosaic is one of the few remaining refuges for semi-wild equines and is a biodiversity hotspot for both aquatic and terrestrial species.

  • Area: 340 square kilometers with an island-like setting.
  • It is designated as both a National Park and a Biosphere Reserve.
  • Known for its population of feral horses.
  • Contains 36 mammal species, including tigers, elephants, and Gangetic dolphins.
  • Offers habitats for 382 bird species, such as the Greater Adjutant Stork, White-Winged Wood Duck, and Bengal Florican.
  • Features natural regeneration of Salix trees, enhancing ecological significance.

Nameri National Park

Nameri is distinguished by its harmonious coexistence of adventure and ecology. The park lies at the eastern Himalayan foothills, providing a scenic backdrop for eco-tourism. Unlike other parks in Assam, it places a strong emphasis on community-based conservation. The forest guards often come from nearby villages, strengthening the human-nature relationship through mutual stewardship and sustainable practices.

  • Area: 200 square kilometers near the northeastern border of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Known for wildlife tourism and adventure activities like rafting on the Jia Bhoroli River.
  • Home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a variety of reptiles.
  • Hosts rare turtle species like the Assam Roofed Turtle.
  • Bird species include the White-Winged Wood Duck and three hornbill species.
  • It acts as an essential elephant corridor due to its location.
  • Offers activities like bird watching, angling, and nature exploration.

Orang National Park

Despite being the smallest park in Assam, Orang surprises visitors with its astonishing density of wildlife. Its terrain—a mix of wetlands, grasslands, and riverine forests—makes it ideal for species concentration. Seasonal migratory birds flock here in winter, making it a key destination for ornithologists. Its compact size also facilitates effective monitoring and conservation, helping maintain ecological balance.

  • Area: 78.8 square kilometers (the smallest national park in Assam).
  • Nicknamed “Mini Kaziranga” due to its similar landscapes and wildlife.
  • Located on the Brahmaputra’s northern bank, it features unique wetland habitats.
  • Protects rhinos, tigers, elephants, and 222 bird species, including the Bengal Florican.
  • The small size allows better wildlife viewing opportunities, especially in winter.

Raimona and Dehing Patkai National Parks

Often called the “Amazon of the East,” Dehing Patkai comprises lush, uninterrupted forest canopies that support the highest diversity of primates in the country. It also holds remnants of historic coalfields, symbolizing the park’s shift from industrial activity to conservation.

Raimona is part of the contiguous forest belt shared with Bhutan and West Bengal. This positioning makes it a vital link in the transboundary conservation network. It is also one of the newest national parks in India, bringing fresh attention and resources to preserve its forest corridors and biodiversity.

  • Dehing Patkai National Park:
    • Area: 111.19 square kilometers.
    • Protects species like hoolock gibbons, clouded leopards, and rare birds and butterflies.
    • Represents the last stretch of Assam’s upper rainforest areas.
    • Rich in biodiversity and ecological importance
  • Raimona National Park:
    • Renowned for a significant population of golden langurs.
    • It functions as a vital wildlife corridor for elephants.
    • Strengthens forest conservation in Assam.
  • Both parks were added to Assam’s conservation network in 2021, enhancing efforts to protect diverse ecosystems and endangered species.

Shikna Jwhwlao National Park

As Assam’s newest addition, Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park marks a pivotal step in expanding protected habitats in the Bodoland Territorial Region. Its river-fed terrain offers fertile wetlands, forest patches, and grassy clearings that serve as safe zones for large herbivores and elusive predators. It also reinforces Assam’s role in transboundary biodiversity corridors linking Bhutan and West Bengal.

  • Area: Located near Kokrajhar in western Assam.
  • Wildlife: Inhabited by Great Indian Rhinoceros, pygmy hog, hog deer, wild water buffalo, Asian elephant, and Bengal tiger.
  • Aquatic Life: Includes sightings of the endangered Gangetic dolphin.
  • Ecology: Fed by the Saralbhanga River, supporting wetland ecosystems and forested patches.
  • Significance: Acts as a critical conservation bridge between Manas and Raimona parks.
  • Year of Notification: Declared as the 8th national park of Assam in 2025

Poaching History and Conservation Recovery

Assam’s national parks have long battled the menace of poaching, especially of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Kaziranga National Park, in particular, witnessed rampant poaching in the 1980s and early 2000s. Poachers targeted rhinos for their horns, which are in demand in illegal markets across Asia.

However, dedicated conservation efforts have turned the tide:

  • The Assam government deployed a specialized Rhino Protection Force.
  • The use of drones and real-time surveillance helped track movements.
  • Increased forest patrolling, especially at night, reduced illegal activity.

Kaziranga alone reported a drastic drop in poaching incidents, from 27 in 2014 to 0 cases in 2022, showing an impressive recovery.

Travel Guide Box: How to Explore Assam’s National Parks

Planning a trip to these incredible wilderness areas? Here’s a quick guide:

  • Best Time to Visit: November to April for most parks; monsoon season (June–Sept) should be avoided due to flooding and park closures.
  • Getting There:
    • Kaziranga: Nearest airport is Jorhat (96 km)
    • Manas: The nearest town is Barpeta Road, connected by train
    • Dibru-Saikhowa: Nearest airport is Dibrugarh (40 km)
  • Accommodation:
    • Forest guest houses (Govt-run)
    • Eco-resorts (private operators)
  • Permits: Required for certain parks and activities like safaris; check with local forest departments.
  • Activities:
    • Elephant safaris (Kaziranga, Orang)
    • River rafting (Nameri)
    • Nature walks and birdwatching (All parks)

Did You Know? Fascinating Wildlife Facts

  • Kaziranga holds the highest density of tigers in any protected area in the world.
  • Manas is home to over 200 species of butterflies—more than many countries!
  • Dibru-Saikhowa is one of the few places in India where feral horses live in the wild.
  • Nameri protects the critically endangered Assam Roofed Turtle, found nowhere else.
  • Dehing Patkai is the only national park in Assam where all species of Indian primates are found.
  • Raimona boasts over 380 species of orchids and is part of the greater Buxa-Raimona forest belt.
  • Sikhna Jwhwlao is among the rare inland habitats where Gangetic dolphins co-exist with large land mammals.

These amazing facts highlight why Assam’s national parks are treasures of global biodiversity and conservation significance.

Importance of National Parks in Assam

How many national park in Assam do more than protect wildlife? Assam’s national parks are nature’s treasure boxes, saving endangered species, boosting local economies, and helping fight climate change. These parks are living proof that when we protect nature, both wildlife and humans benefit.

  • Conservation of Biodiversity

These parks are great tourist attractions, but most importantly, they’re survival shelters for countless species. When asking “how many national park in Assam,” remember that each park is significant in maintaining ecological balance. They protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats; these parks are nature’s insurance policy.

  • Eco-Tourism and Community Impact

Local communities near these parks have transformed from mere spectators to active participants in conservation. Many villagers now work as guides, sharing their traditional knowledge with visitors. The parks generate significant revenue through tourism, supporting local economies.

  • Global Recognition

With two UNESCO World Heritage Sites among its national parks, Assam has earned international recognition for its conservation efforts. This global attention helps secure resources and support for protection efforts.

Largest National Park in Assam

Kaziranga National Park is the largest national park in Assam and one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Spanning an expansive area of 42,996 hectares, it lies in the heart of the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain, showcasing a unique blend of grasslands, wetlands, and forests. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its thriving population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, harboring the largest population of this iconic species.

In addition to rhinos, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. This makes it an essential habitat for some of India’s most endangered species. The park is also an important bird area, attracting migratory birds from across the globe.

Kaziranga’s rich biodiversity and unspoiled landscapes make it a critical conservation site and a significant contributor to Assam’s ecological and cultural heritage. Its unique environment attracts tourists, researchers, and nature enthusiasts worldwide, further elevating its importance as a cornerstone of wildlife preservation in India.

Assam’s Role in India’s National Park Network

There are 104 national parks in India, and Assam’s eight parks form a significant part of this network. These parks form a crucial wildlife corridor in Northeast India. They connect with protected areas in neighboring states and other countries like Bhutan, helping animals move freely across their natural ranges.

Assam’s parks protect over 70% of the world’s one-horned rhinos. They also shelter about 60% of India’s wild buffalo population. The state’s parks cover different types of land – from grasslands to rainforests. This variety helps protect many other species. For example, Kaziranga’s wetlands protect water birds, while Dehing Patkai’s rainforests shelter rare primates.

Assam’s success with rhino conservation shows other states how to protect endangered species. The state’s “shoot at sight” policy against poachers has helped rhino numbers grow.

A Legacy Worth Preserving: The Future Ahead

Assam’s national parks face challenges and opportunities. Climate change and human encroachment pose threats, but growing awareness and community involvement offer hope. These parks are our natural heritage, promising a better future for wildlife and humans.

Hence, people must recognize that when we protect these parks, we’re not just preserving nature; we’re securing our future. So next time someone asks, “How many national parks are in Assam? ” Tell them it’s not just about the number eight. It’s about eight unique ecosystems that make our world a better place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

How many national parks are there in Assam?

Assam has eight national parks: Kaziranga, Manas, Dibru-Saikhowa, Orang, Nameri, Raimona, Dihing Patkai, and Shikna Jwhwlao. These national parks have beautiful, shining biodiversity and conserve endangered species, unique ecosystems, and habitats. Every park has different attractions, making Assam a perfect spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

What makes Kaziranga National Park famous?

Kaziranga National Park is internationally recognized for its one-horned rhinoceroses, which constitute two-thirds of the worldwide population. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a habitat for the tiger, elephant, and swamp deer. The tremendous beauty of the landscapes in wetlands, grasslands, and forests has made this park a place for ecotourism and wildlife photography.

How do Assam’s national parks contribute to biodiversity?

The national parks of Assam are biodiversity treasure hunts. They encompass critical habitats such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands, where endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and the Bengal tiger are conserved. These national parks safeguard the flora and fauna unique to Assam, maintain ecological balance, increase climate resilience, and ensure critical ecosystems survive.

What is the significance of Manas National Park?

Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its diverse flora and fauna. It is a well-known tiger reserve. Most of its rich biodiversity is of unique species like the golden langur and pygmy hog, which are rare to find anywhere else. Nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, Manas is a place of scenic beauty that is important for conserving Assam’s natural heritage.

How do national parks in Assam impact eco-tourism?

Assam’s national parks attract thousands of tourists yearly, boosting eco-tourism and creating livelihood opportunities for local communities. From jeep safaris in Kaziranga to birdwatching in Nameri, these parks offer unique experiences. This sustainable tourism model helps fund conservation efforts and fosters environmental awareness while supporting Assam’s economy.

What is the newest national park of Assam?

The newest national park in Assam is Shikna Jwhwlao National Park, officially declared on August 15, 2024. Located in the Kokrajhar and Chirang districts, it spans approximately 321.9 square kilometers. This addition brings Assam’s total national parks to eight.

Which is the 106th national park?

Raimona National Park. Assam is home to eight national parks, the highest in any Indian state. Raimona National Park, declared in 2021, making it the 106th national park in India. These parks showcase Assam’s rich biodiversity and unique wildlife heritage.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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