Kaziranga National Park Reopens for 2026–27 Tourism Season
Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve officially reopened for the 2026–27 tourism season on Friday, October 3, with Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah formally marking the occasion at Kohora Range. The reopening marks the beginning of another tourism season at one of Assam’s most popular wildlife destinations, with tourists and wildlife enthusiasts expected to arrive from across India and abroad.
Jeep Safaris Begin, Elephant Safaris to Follow
Jeep safaris commenced from the opening day, while elephant safaris are expected to resume within the next 10–20 days, subject to the completion of necessary preparations. Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah, along with Forest Department officials, welcomed tourists and expressed hope that visitor numbers would surpass those recorded during the previous tourism season. The reopening ceremony was also attended by Minister Atul Bora and Member of Parliament Kamakhya Prasad Tasa.
Focus on Better Tourist Facilities
Speaking at the event, Mallabaruah stressed the need for continued cooperation between the Forest and Tourism departments to improve infrastructure and visitor facilities at Kaziranga. He said that with tourist numbers increasing every year, existing facilities need to be upgraded while new features and attractions are introduced to meet visitors’ expectations. The Minister also expressed confidence about the upcoming season, citing encouraging booking trends.
Tourism Growth and Local Participation
Mallabaruah emphasised that the growth of tourism should also create greater economic opportunities for people living around Kaziranga. He called for increased participation of local communities in tourism-related activities so that more residents can become self-reliant and benefit from the growing tourism economy. The government is also exploring new tourism circuits connecting Kaziranga with nearby destinations. The proposed approach is aimed at encouraging tourists to stay in the region for two to four days rather than limiting their visit to the national park alone.
Conservation Remains a Priority
The Forest Minister highlighted wildlife conservation as a key factor behind Kaziranga’s global tourism appeal. The park’s one-horned rhinoceros continues to be one of its biggest attractions. Mallabaruah also highlighted the decline in rhino poaching and credited conservation initiatives undertaken by the Assam government and various stakeholders. At the same time, he stressed that tourism development must go hand in hand with protection of Kaziranga’s ecological balance.
Government’s Focus for the New Season
The Forest and Tourism departments, local communities and other stakeholders are expected to work together during the new tourism season to improve visitor experiences while protecting Kaziranga’s natural heritage.
