A Day in the Wild: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Adventure (2024)

Go on a thrilling journey into the heart of nature’s wonders as we delve into the enchanting realm of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled in the northeastern state of Assam, India, Pobitora stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity. From the moment you step into this lush sanctuary, the air is filled with the symphony of diverse wildlife, beckoning adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Home to a remarkable population of one-horned Indian rhinoceroses, along with a myriad of other fascinating species, Pobitora promises an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blends conservation, education, and the sheer joy of being immersed in the untamed beauty of the natural world. Join us as we explore the sights, sounds, and stories that make Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary a captivating destination for anyone seeking a genuine wildlife adventure.

On my third endeavor to catch a glimpse of a one-horned rhino in the wild, anticipation ran high. Having visited Chitwan National Park in Nepal long ago, my luck had not favored me with a single rhino sighting. The excitement soared last December when I was chosen as one of the Bodoland Ambassadors for 2019. Beyond the thrill of exploring the pristine Bodoland, my enthusiasm peaked knowing that the itinerary included visits to Manas National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.

PIN to reference later – Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

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About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Established as a reserve forest in 1971 and later designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1987, Pobitora, also known as Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected area in Assam.

Covering approximately 38 square kilometres, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a sprawling grassland terrain that facilitates seamless wildlife observation. Often referred to as the ‘Mini-Kaziranga,’ the sanctuary earned its designation as a reserve forest in 1971 and was later declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1987.

Renowned for its remarkable concentration of one-horned Indian Rhinoceros, Pobitora is home to an estimated 102 rhinos, as per the 2018 survey. This impressive ratio of rhino population to sanctuary size ensures that encountering these majestic creatures is a nearly guaranteed experience for visitors.

Beyond its iconic rhinos, Pobitora is a haven for avian enthusiasts, earning the moniker ‘Bharatpur of the East’ due to its diverse bird species. The sanctuary’s rich biodiversity extends to various birdlife, enhancing the wildlife experience.

Whether marveling at the one-horned giants or immersing oneself in the vibrant avian tapestry, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary promises an unforgettable exploration of nature’s wonders in the heart of Assam.

How to Get to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?

Situated along the banks of the Brahmaputra River in the Morigaon district of Assam, India, the wildlife sanctuary lies approximately 48 kilometres from the state’s capital city, Guwahati. Easily accessible by road, the sanctuary is a mere one to two-hour drive from Guwahati. Pobitora frequently serves as a convenient stopover for travelers en route to the renowned Kaziranga National Park, a famous national park in Assam.

From Pobitora, you can also travel to Mayong, which is known for its Black Magic.

Wildlife in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

As previously mentioned, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is the habitat of the one-horned Indian Rhinoceros. The sanctuary actively participates in the Rhino breeding program initiated by the Indian Government, recognized as “Indian Rhino Vision 2020.” Interested individuals can refer to the rhinos.org website for additional information about the program.

An essential experience during a visit to Pobitora is the opportunity to observe the wild rhinos in their natural habitat.

Hosting over 400 bird species, both resident and migratory, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for avian enthusiasts. Particularly during winters, the sanctuary welcomes over 2000 migratory birds, amplifying its allure as a dream destination for bird lovers and photographers alike.

Best Time to Visit Pobitora

The optimal time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter season, from November to February. The weather is pleasant during these months, providing an ideal environment to observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.

It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season due to the sanctuary’s susceptibility to floods, which can adversely affect road conditions.

Permission and Jeep Safari Details

To access Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors must obtain individual permits available for purchase at the sanctuary’s entrance. The permit fees are INR 50 per person for Indian nationals and INR 500 per person for foreign nationals.

The sanctuary offers daily jeep safaris, each lasting 1 to 2 hours. The safari schedule begins with the first tour at 7 in the morning and concludes with the last safari departing at 3 in the afternoon. Here are the specifics for the Jeep safari:

• Operating Hours: The safari runs from 7 AM to 3 PM, with a break between 12 PM and 1 PM.
• Fees: The fee for one jeep, accommodating up to 6 people, is INR 1300. This cost includes the services of a guide and a driver.
• Extra Charges: An additional fee of INR 50 is applicable for each camera used during the safari. Cameras must be declared at the time of booking.
• Reservation: Safari bookings can be made at the entrance.

Note: While elephant safaris are available, I do not endorse or provide information about them. For details regarding elephant safaris, please inquire at the entrance.

Where to Stay near Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary?

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary has many accommodation options catering to all travelers and budgets. You can consider staying at the properties below:

• Zizina Otis Resort.
• Arya Eco Resort (3-Star Hotel).
• Mystique Mayong Eco Resort.
• Aroohan Serenity Resort.
• Repose Highway Resort.

Is Pobitora Safe for Solo Travelers and Tourists?

As a solo female traveler, safety is my foremost concern during journeys. I was pleasantly surprised when I approached my travels in Assam with the same caution as in my previous experiences. Throughout my 10-day exploration of Bodoland and various parts of Assam, I realized that safety was not a significant worry in this region. The locals are incredibly welcoming, and even in the remote areas, a sense of security prevails. It is reassuring to confirm that traveling to and within Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is safe.

However, a word of caution: be mindful of the rhinos, especially during the night, as they may occasionally venture beyond the sanctuary boundaries.

Closing Notes

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. The one-hour jeep safari provided close encounters with at least 4 to 5 rhinos, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. I wholeheartedly recommend Pobitora, assuring you won’t be disappointed! Whether a wildlife lover or a bird watcher, this sanctuary deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

Note: Bodoland Tourism and Assam Tourism sponsored the trip to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. This article is written in collaboration with the tourism boards. However, all the opinions are unbiased and solely mine.

Also, read

• Assam Travel Diaries