Exploring the Wild Heart of Assam: Complete List of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam

Assam, located in the northeastern part of India, is not just famous for its tea gardens, mighty Brahmaputra River, and vibrant culture—it’s also a biodiversity hotspot. Home to the majestic one-horned rhinoceros, endangered river dolphins, and lush green rainforests, Assam offers a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. But just how many wildlife sanctuaries are there in Assam?

This article covers everything you need to know about wildlife sanctuaries in Assam, including the total number, a detailed list of wildlife sanctuaries, and information about the largest wildlife sanctuary in Assam.

How Many Wildlife Sanctuaries Are There in Assam?

As of the latest data, there are 18 officially recognized wildlife sanctuaries in Assam. These sanctuaries are spread across the state and serve as protected areas for a wide range of species, from rare birds and reptiles to large mammals like tigers and elephants.

So, if you're searching for the answer to "how many wildlife sanctuary in Assam?"—the answer is 18.

Additionally, Assam is also home to 5 national parks, including the world-renowned Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Why Are Wildlife Sanctuaries Important in Assam?

Assam is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, one of the most biologically rich and diverse zones in the world. The wildlife sanctuaries in Assam protect vital ecosystems, help maintain ecological balance, and serve as breeding grounds for endangered species.

They also offer eco-tourism opportunities and play a crucial role in environmental education and awareness.

Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam List (Updated)

Here is the updated wildlife sanctuary in Assam list, including their location and brief highlights:

1. Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Karbi Anglong

• Highlights: One of the oldest sanctuaries, known for hot water springs and rich biodiversity.

2. Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Kokrajhar and Dhubri districts

• Highlights: Known for the endangered Golden Langur.

3. Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Udalguri district

• Highlights: Habitat for the pigmy hog and hispid hare.

4. Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Sonitpur

• Highlights: Floodplain ecosystem with elephants, leopards, and swamp deer.

5. East Karbi Anglong Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Karbi Anglong district

• Highlights: Rich in mammals like tigers, elephants, and clouded leopards.

6. Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Nagaon district

• Highlights: Grassland ecosystem, home to rhinos and wild buffaloes.

7. Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Golaghat

• Highlights: Famous for orchids and rare plants.

8. Nambor-Doigrung Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Golaghat

• Highlights: Dense forests with elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.

9. Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Jorhat

• Highlights: Only sanctuary in India dedicated to the Hoolock Gibbon.

10. Orang (Rajiv Gandhi) Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Darrang and Sonitpur

• Highlights: Also known as mini-Kaziranga; habitat for rhinos, tigers, and wild boars.

11. Panidehing Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Sivasagar district

• Highlights: Wetland ecosystem; paradise for birdwatchers.

12. Pani Dihing Bird Sanctuary

• Location: Sivasagar

• Highlights: Thousands of migratory birds, including storks and ducks.

13. Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Sonitpur

• Highlights: Home to wild elephants and the great hornbill.

14. Bherjan-Borajan-Padumoni Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Tinsukia

• Highlights: Rich in primates like capped langurs and macaques.

15. Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Dibrugarh and Tinsukia

• Highlights: Known as the "Amazon of the East"; dense rainforest and rare species.

16. Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Morigaon

• Highlights: Highest density of one-horned rhinos in the world.

17. Borail Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Cachar

• Highlights: Dense evergreen forest with elephants, barking deer, and hill mynas.

18. Ultapani Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Kokrajhar

• Highlights: Lesser known, rich in flora and home to various reptile species.

Largest Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam

Wondering which is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Assam? That title goes to the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, which spreads across 220 square kilometers. Located near the foothills of the Himalayas, it’s home to a wide range of mammals and birds and is a part of the greater Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.

While Kaziranga National Park might be more famous globally, in terms of wildlife sanctuaries, Sonai Rupai tops the list in size and biodiversity.

What Makes Assam's Sanctuaries Unique?

Here’s why wildlife sanctuaries in Assam stand out:

1. Rare and Endangered Species: Assam shelters unique species like the one-horned rhinoceros, Hoolock Gibbon, and Golden Langur.

2. Varied Ecosystems: From wetlands to tropical rainforests, the range of ecosystems is remarkable.

3. Rich Birdlife: Sanctuaries like Panidehing and Pani Dihing are top birdwatching destinations.

4. Eco-Tourism Potential: Many sanctuaries promote sustainable tourism and nature-based travel.

5. Community Involvement: Several wildlife conservation efforts are managed with help from local tribes and communities.

Tips for Visiting Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam

Planning to explore these green paradises? Keep these tips in mind:

• Hire a local guide: For better chances of spotting wildlife and understanding local flora and fauna.

• Visit during winter (Nov–Feb): Most animals are active, and migratory birds are present.

• Pack light but smart: Binoculars, eco-friendly gear, and good trekking shoes are essential.

• Respect the environment: Do not litter, stay on trails, and avoid disturbing animals.

• Check entry requirements: Some areas require prior permission or permits.

How to Explore Multiple Sanctuaries

If you're an adventure seeker or wildlife photographer, you can plan a week-long or two-week itinerary covering multiple sanctuaries. A popular circuit includes:

• Kaziranga National Park (near Pabitora and Orang Sanctuary)

• Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

• Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary

• Chakrashila and Ultapani Wildlife Sanctuaries

This journey will give you an incredible opportunity to witness Assam’s diverse ecological wonders.

Final Thoughts

Assam may not always be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of wildlife destinations in India—but it should be. With a total of 18 wildlife sanctuaries, diverse ecosystems, and some of the world’s rarest species, the state is truly a hidden treasure for nature lovers.

So, now you know how many wildlife sanctuaries are there in Assam, where they are located, and which one is the largest. The only thing left is to pack your bags, grab a pair of binoculars, and step into the wild heart of Assam!