In the Indian state of Assam, there is a hidden treasure called the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a well-known wildlife sanctuary in Assam that visitors favour. It is located near Guwahati city in the Morigaon district of Assam. The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations and is well-known for its large population of one-horned rhinoceros. Sanctuary activities also include elephant and jeep safaris, bird watching, and boat rides for viewing river dolphins. On the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River lies the sanctuary, which holds a considerable amount of one-horned rhinoceroses.
Location
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One of the northeastern states of India is the state of Assam, and under that lies Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Morigaon district. It is about 30 kilometres to the east of Guwahati, the largest city in Assam.
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Guwahati For Every Traveller
How To Reach
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By Air: Guwahati Airport is where you can quickly go to all significant places. Then, you can rent a car or taxi from Huwa Hati until you reach Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Rail: Jagiroad has excellent connections to Guwahati and is home to the nearest train station. This is a well-traveled route; between Jagiroad and Morigaon, take a taxi or public transportation after you get to the railway station.
By Road: The limited route generally takes two hours to get from Guwahati to Pobitora. If you are travelling here from Kaziranga on NH 37, you can follow the signs for Mayang at Jagiroad. From Guwahati’s Adabari Bus Station, you can catch a bus to Chamata.
Things To Do
1. Wildlife Safari
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Jeep safaris can be taken up in the grasslands and wetlands of the sanctuary, which also provide a good view of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, many types of birds, and other wildlife.
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2. Bird Watching
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Get an opportunity to watch the migrating birds from November to April. The sanctuary is especially well-known for its wide variety of avifauna and hence draws many bird enthusiasts who love watching different species of birds.
3. Nature Walks
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Guided nature walks are carried out to closely observe the rich flora and fauna of the sanctuary. Such walks give insight into the ecosystem and soak one in the natural habitat.
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Places To Visit Around Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Kaziranga National Park
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This UNESCO World Heritage Site for the Indian one-horned rhinoceros is situated about 120 kilometres from Pobitora. Various habitats for tigers, elephants, and a wide range of birds are found here. The visitor can move about in jeep safaris or on elephant rides to give him firsthand experience with the wealthy wildlife. Unique in its landscape of grasslands and wetlands, this park shall present an immersive natural experience.
Location: Kangbura Takbi, Assam 782482
2. Guwahati
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Situated at a distance of about 50 km from Pobitora, it is the biggest city in Assam and certainly a huge entry point to the northeastern region of India. Places include a variety that interests the visitor: religiously important places like the Kamakhya Temple, followed by Umananda Island and the Assam State Museum. The vivacity of the shopping districts goes well with the scenic Brahmaputra River cruises and local cuisine. Hence, Guwahati has become a nerve centre for tourists.
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3. Hajo
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This ancient town, lying about 60 kilometres away from Pobitora, is one of the most important places of religious and cultural identity for Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists alike. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple, Powa Mecca, and Kedareswara Temple are just a few of the more important places of interest here. Hajo’s blending of different streams of religious practice and historical architecture makes the place interesting for tourists to get an overview of Assam’s divergent spiritual heritage and cultural history.
Location: Poa Mokka, Hajo, Assam 781104.
4. Sualkuchi
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About 70 kilometres from Pobitora lies Sualkuchi, famous as the “Manchester of Assam” for its silk industry. Housing the bulk of Assam’s silk production, this town and its local weaving villages are open for visitors to view the minute silk-making process. Sualkuchi is a pictorial place, lying right on the bank of the Brahmaputra River, adding charms to it. This is a great place to visit for those who love traditional crafts and scenic beauty.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Guwahati For An Extra Special Trip To Assam
5. Mayong
Photo: দস্যু ভাস্কৰ / Wikimedia Commons
Situated around 40 km from Pobitora, Mayong has an ancient tradition of black magic and witchcraft. The village is soaked in folklore and traditional practices that form the core of its study reflected at the Mayong Central Museum and Emporium. The landscapes of Mayong are pretty scenic, so one can comfortably sit amidst the beauty of nature and learn more about its unique cultural heritage and traditional magical practices.
Where To Stay
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Staying close to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is most effectively arranged by booking an eco-resort well in advance of the journey, particularly during time frames that are usually high for bird-watching. Deep inside the jungle is situated the Zizina Otis Resort, offering tent rooms and mud homes as a quiet escape. Other options are the Arya Eco Resort and Aarohan Serenity Resort. In any case, many accommodations are available in Guwahati, located near the sanctuary.
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Where To Eat
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Beginning from dining inside the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, it ranges from local and continental cuisine to a beautiful atmosphere at the Wild Grass Resort Restaurant. Traditional Assamese food and fresh fish curry are available with warm hospitality at Zizina Otis Resort Restaurant. At the Maibong Eco-Resort Restaurant, one can gorge on foods that are sustainable and sourced locally, be it Assamese delicacies. Simple and good local Assamese meals and snacks are available in the Tourist Lodge Canteen. Local restaurants in the rural settings around Mayong Village offer a homely cuisine with bamboo shoot curry and pithas.
Best Time To Visit
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Best time to visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary The best time for visiting the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to April. The park reopens in the middle of October as it cools down after the monsoon. This is the period when the migratory birds can be spotted and the temperature is also pleasant for visitors.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kaziranga On Your Wildlife Voyage To Assam
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- Permits: Obtain necessary permits in advance as they are compulsory for entry and sighting the wildlife.
- Guides: Always hire an approved guide to enjoy a better experience and avoid misfortunes.
- Weather: Weather is changeable, most especially during monsoon season, and may hamper travel and reduce visibility.
- Health Precautions: Adequate medication to be carried and health advisory to be followed.
- Wildlife Safety: Observe the requirements of the park rules and safety guidelines so as not to disturb wildlife.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, in Assam, is a beautiful, unseen paradise for the wildlife enthusiast and nature lover. The rich biodiversity, with the one-horned rhinoceros, migratory birds, and other wildlife, is truly a place to visit. It is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Plan a trip with TripXL and make it a lifetime experience amidst serene landscapes and enough wildlife.
Cover Photo: Biswarup Sen / Wikimedia Commons