Kaziranga National Park is located in Assam, in the northeastern part of India. It is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and rich wildlife. Delhi, the capital city of India, is a major starting point for travelers heading to Kaziranga for wildlife safaris and nature experiences.

This route is commonly traveled by nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Kaziranga National Park using various transport modes, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also get practical tips and a step-by-step travel plan for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Kaziranga National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for reaching Kaziranga from Delhi. It offers a chance to see the countryside but requires planning due to long distances and connections.

• Delhi has multiple major railway stations like New Delhi (NDLS) and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), which connect to Guwahati, the nearest major railway hub to Kaziranga. The journey to Guwahati takes about 30 to 36 hours by direct trains like the Rajdhani or Assam Express.

• From Guwahati Railway Station, you can take a local train or taxi to Furkating Junction, which is closer to Kaziranga, about 90 km away. The train ride from Guwahati to Furkating takes around 2 to 3 hours.

• Booking tickets through IRCTC is recommended well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and festivals, as trains can get fully booked quickly.

• Train fares from Delhi to Guwahati range from ₹800 to ₹2500 depending on the class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, or 1AC). Local trains from Guwahati to Furkating are cheaper but less comfortable.

• Be prepared for long travel times and possible delays during monsoon season due to heavy rains affecting the Northeast rail routes.

Bus

Buses are less common for this long-distance route but can be used for parts of the journey, especially from Guwahati to Kaziranga. They are budget-friendly but slower and less comfortable.

• There are no direct buses from Delhi to Kaziranga due to the long distance (over 2000 km). You can take a Volvo or deluxe bus from Delhi to Guwahati, which takes around 40 to 45 hours with multiple stops.

• From Guwahati, Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and private buses run regularly to Kaziranga National Park, taking about 4 to 5 hours via NH27 and NH715.

• Bus fares from Guwahati to Kaziranga range from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on the type of bus (ordinary or deluxe). Booking tickets at the Guwahati bus depot or online is advisable.

• Buses in the Northeast may be crowded during holidays and weekends, so plan accordingly and avoid night travel in remote areas for safety.

• Road conditions on NH27 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery patches, so check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Kaziranga is an adventurous option for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. It covers around 2100 km and takes approximately 40 hours of driving time.

• The main route is via NH44 to Nagpur, then NH53 and NH27 passing through states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal before entering Assam. This route offers scenic views and multiple rest stops.

• Expect toll plazas on NH44 and NH27; toll charges can add up to ₹1500 to ₹2000 for the entire journey. Plan cash or FASTag payments accordingly.

• Driving through the Northeast requires caution due to hilly terrain near Assam and occasional fog during winter mornings, which reduces visibility on highways.

• Fuel stations are available along the national highways, but some stretches in the Northeast have fewer options, so keep your tank topped up before entering remote areas.

• Plan overnight stops in major cities like Nagpur, Kolkata, or Guwahati to rest. Booking hotels in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kaziranga from Delhi, especially for travelers with limited time. However, there is no airport in Kaziranga itself.

• The nearest airport to Kaziranga is Jorhat Airport (Rupsi Airport is also nearby but less connected), about 97 km from the park. Direct flights from Delhi to Jorhat are limited, so most travelers fly to Guwahati Airport, which is well connected.

• Delhi to Guwahati flights take around 3 to 4 hours and are operated by multiple airlines including IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. Fares typically range from ₹3500 to ₹7000 depending on booking time and season.

• From Guwahati Airport, you can hire a prepaid taxi or book an Ola/Uber cab to Kaziranga National Park. The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours on NH27 and NH715.

• Booking flights early, especially during winter and festival seasons, helps secure better fares and availability. Use airline apps or travel portals for best deals.

• Flight delays can occur during foggy winter mornings or heavy monsoon rains, so allow buffer time if you have connecting travel plans.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Kaziranga National Park. It covers key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance using IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles and high prices.

• If traveling by train, choose a direct train to Guwahati and confirm your onward connection to Furkating or arrange a taxi from Guwahati to Kaziranga in advance.

• For flights, check flight timings carefully and book a prepaid taxi from Guwahati Airport to Kaziranga to avoid overcharging and confusion upon arrival.

• Pack light but include essentials like mosquito repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a raincoat or umbrella if traveling during monsoon season.

• Plan overnight stays in Guwahati or Jorhat if your arrival is late in the day to rest before heading to Kaziranga, as safari timings are strict and start early morning.

• Confirm your safari bookings and park permits online or through authorized tour operators before arrival to avoid last-minute issues at the park entrance.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel, especially in remote areas near Kaziranga.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Guwahati and Jorhat for safer and fair-priced local travel instead of hailing random taxis.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive gadgets openly, especially in crowded train stations and bus depots.

• Book your train and bus tickets online through IRCTC and state transport websites to ensure confirmed seats and avoid standing for long journeys.

• Travel light and use sturdy luggage with locks, as you may need to carry your bags during last-mile transfers or on local transport.

• Be prepared for weather changes; winters in Assam can be chilly early morning, while monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are easier. Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains and possible flooding, limiting park access.

Travel conditions vary by season. Winter mornings can have dense fog affecting flights and road visibility. Summer months are hot and humid but still manageable for travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja in Assam or Diwali in Delhi, as transport services are crowded and prices rise.

• Monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and train delays, especially on the NH27 highway and rail routes in Northeast India.

• Early morning departures are best for flights and trains to avoid fog-related delays and heavy traffic in Delhi.

• Plan your safari visits in the morning or late afternoon when animals are most active and park guides are available.

Arrival at Kaziranga National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Kaziranga, you will find several local transport options including prepaid taxis, shared jeeps, and hotel shuttles to reach your accommodation or park entrance. The nearest towns like Bokakhat and Kaziranga village have basic facilities and guesthouses.

Most visitors stay in eco-resorts or government rest houses near the park. It is advisable to pre-book your stay to avoid last-minute shortages. Local guides and safari vehicles are available at the park gates, and prepaid options are safer and more reliable than negotiating on the spot.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kaziranga National Park from Delhi is by flying to Guwahati and then taking a taxi or bus to the park. This option saves time and offers comfort, especially for travelers with limited days. Train travel is a good budget alternative but requires more planning and time.

Remember to book your tickets and accommodations in advance, check weather conditions, and plan your local transport carefully. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable journey to one of India’s most famous wildlife destinations.