Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, is the main gateway to the northeastern states of India. Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located about 220 km east of Guwahati and is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and rich wildlife.

This route is popular among wildlife enthusiasts and tourists visiting Assam. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park, covering trains, buses, cars, and taxis with useful tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train offers a comfortable and scenic option for those who prefer rail travel. Though there is no direct train to Kaziranga, nearby stations provide access to the park.

• The closest railway station to Kaziranga is Furkating Junction, about 40 km away, connected to Guwahati by regular trains taking around 3 to 4 hours with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 in sleeper and second class.

• From Furkating, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kaziranga, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on road conditions and costs around ₹500 to ₹800.

• Trains from Guwahati to Furkating run multiple times a day, but booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

• Train travel can be affected by fog in winter months (December-January), causing delays, so plan accordingly if traveling during this time.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Kaziranga from Guwahati. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• State-run Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) buses depart from Guwahati’s Paltan Bazaar bus station to Kaziranga, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours over 220 km, with fares between ₹150 and ₹300.

• Private Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort and run mainly in the morning and evening, but seats fill quickly during holidays, so booking in advance is advised.

• Local buses may be crowded and less comfortable, especially during monsoon season when roads can be slippery and slow-moving due to waterlogging.

• There are frequent stops on the highway NH37 for refreshments and restrooms, including popular dhabas serving local Assamese snacks and tea.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Guwahati to Kaziranga is a flexible and convenient option, especially for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace.

• The route mainly follows National Highway 37 (NH37), covering about 220 km in 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, with toll plazas en route charging nominal fees.

• Car rentals with drivers are widely available in Guwahati, costing around ₹2500 to ₹3500 for a one-way trip, including fuel and tolls; self-drive options are also possible but require familiarity with local traffic rules.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains from June to September can cause occasional delays due to waterlogging or minor landslides.

• There are several roadside eateries and petrol stations along NH37, making it easy to plan breaks; popular stops include Nagaon and Bokakhat towns.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab is a hassle-free way to reach Kaziranga, offering door-to-door service and flexibility in timings.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked from Guwahati airport or railway station, with fares typically between ₹3000 and ₹4000 for a one-way trip lasting about 5 hours.

• Ola and Uber services are limited beyond Guwahati city, so it is advisable to arrange taxis through local travel agents or hotels for the onward journey.

• Taxis offer the advantage of stopping at sightseeing spots or local markets along the way, which is not possible with buses or trains.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability can be limited and prices may surge, so booking in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park to make the journey smooth and stress-free.

• Book your preferred mode of transport in advance, especially train or bus tickets via IRCTC or ASTC websites, to secure seats during busy seasons and avoid last-minute rush.

• If traveling by train, arrive at Guwahati railway station at least 30 minutes early to find your platform and avoid confusion, as the station is large and busy.

• For bus travelers, reach Paltan Bazaar bus station early to get a good seat and confirm the bus’s final destination is Kaziranga or nearby towns like Bokakhat or Bagori.

• If hiring a taxi or car, confirm the fare and route with the driver before starting the journey to avoid misunderstandings and ensure the driver knows the exact park entrance you want to visit.

• Carry water, snacks, and light rain gear during monsoon months, as roadside facilities may be limited and weather can change quickly on the route.

• On arrival near Kaziranga, arrange local transport like shared jeeps or park vehicles through your hotel or authorized guides for entry into the park, as private vehicles are not allowed inside.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during travel to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in Assam.

• Book accommodations and safari permits well in advance, especially during peak seasons from November to April, to avoid last-minute disappointments.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted local cabs rather than hailing random vehicles to ensure safety and fair pricing.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as some buses and trains have limited space and theft can occur in crowded stations.

• During monsoon season, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey, as flooding can cause delays or detours.

• Try local Assamese cuisine at rest stops or restaurants en route, but prefer freshly cooked meals to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Guwahati to Kaziranga is during the dry winter and early spring months when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are optimal.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and occasional flooding, which can affect road and rail travel, while summer months can be hot and humid, making travel less comfortable.

• Avoid traveling during major Assamese festivals like Bihu when transport services are crowded and prices may rise sharply.

• Winter fog from December to January can delay trains and reduce visibility on roads, so plan extra travel time if journeying then.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic congestion in Guwahati and reach Kaziranga with enough daylight for safaris.

• Monsoon rains from June to September can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides on NH37, so check weather forecasts and road status before traveling.

Arrival at Kaziranga National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Kaziranga, you will find several entry points depending on the park zone you plan to visit, such as Bagori, Kohora, or Agoratoli. Most tourists stay in nearby towns like Bokakhat or Kaziranga village, which offer a range of hotels and lodges.

Local transport inside the park is limited to authorized safari vehicles and jeeps, which you can book through your accommodation or the park office. Prepaid taxis or shared jeeps are available from nearby towns to the park entrances. It is advisable to confirm your pickup and drop-off points in advance to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

Traveling from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most efficient way is by car or taxi for flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore the region at your own pace. Trains and buses offer economical alternatives but require some planning and time.

Remember to book your tickets and accommodations early, especially during peak seasons, and keep an eye on weather conditions to ensure a smooth journey. With proper planning and local knowledge, you can enjoy a memorable trip to one of India’s most famous wildlife destinations confidently and comfortably.