Kaziranga National Park is located in the northeastern state of Assam, famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses and rich biodiversity. Mumbai, on the west coast, is a major metropolis and commercial hub of India. Traveling from Mumbai to Kaziranga is a popular route for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a unique experience.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options, step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you prefer trains, flights, buses, or driving, you will find detailed information to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Mumbai to Kaziranga National Park – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a budget-friendly and scenic way to reach Kaziranga from Mumbai, though it involves long hours and transfers. It suits travelers who enjoy rail journeys and want to save on costs.

• The nearest major railway station to Kaziranga is Furkating Junction, about 80 km away, connected to Guwahati and other cities. Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) offers trains to Guwahati, which is around 350 km from Kaziranga.

• Typical trains from Mumbai to Guwahati include the Kamrup Express and North East Express, with travel times ranging from 36 to 42 hours. Fares vary from INR 800 for sleeper class to INR 2500 for AC 3-tier.

• From Guwahati, you can take a local train or taxi to Furkating or directly to Kaziranga, which takes about 4 to 5 hours by road. Local trains run regularly but may be crowded during festivals.

• Booking tickets through IRCTC is recommended at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays to avoid waitlists and ensure confirmed seats.

Bus

Buses offer an economical way to travel but are less comfortable for the long journey from Mumbai to Kaziranga. This option suits budget travelers who do not mind longer travel times and multiple changes.

• There are no direct buses from Mumbai to Kaziranga due to the long distance and multiple states crossed. You will need to take a bus to Guwahati first, which can take 3 to 4 days with stops and changes.

• From Guwahati, Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and private operators run buses to Kaziranga via NH37. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours and costs INR 200 to 400.

• Bus travel from Mumbai to Guwahati involves multiple state transport services and private operators, with frequent stops and overnight halts. Expect crowded buses during festival seasons like Durga Puja and Bihu.

• Booking bus tickets online is limited for interstate routes; it is advisable to buy tickets in person at major bus depots like Mumbai’s Dadar or Guwahati’s Paltan Bazaar for better options and timings.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Kaziranga is a long but adventurous option for travelers who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The route covers diverse landscapes and several states.

• The distance between Mumbai and Kaziranga is approximately 2800 km via NH27 and NH53, taking around 50 to 55 hours of driving time without long breaks. Plan for multiple overnight stops in cities like Nagpur, Raipur, and Guwahati.

• The route passes through major highways such as NH53, NH27, and NH37, with toll plazas and fuel stations widely available. Expect toll costs around INR 2000 to 3000 for the entire journey.

• Road conditions vary; highways near Mumbai and Nagpur are well-maintained, but some stretches in Assam may have potholes or narrow roads, especially during monsoon season.

• Rest stops with dhabas and restaurants are common along the route, but carry water and snacks for remote stretches. Driving at night is not recommended due to wildlife crossings and limited lighting.

Flight

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

• The nearest airport to Kaziranga is Jorhat Airport, about 97 km away, and Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, about 97 km away, serves as the main gateway.

• Direct flights from Mumbai to Guwahati take around 3.5 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from INR 4000 to 9000 depending on season and airline. Airlines like IndiGo, AirAsia, and Vistara operate this route frequently.

• From Guwahati or Jorhat airports, you can hire prepaid taxis or book app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to Kaziranga, which takes about 4 to 5 hours by road. Shared taxis and local buses are also available but less comfortable.

• Booking flights at least 3 weeks in advance is recommended to get better fares and seat availability, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Kaziranga National Park, focusing on comfort and ease.

• Book your flight from Mumbai to Guwahati online via airline websites or travel portals. Early booking helps secure better prices and preferred timings.

• Upon arrival at Guwahati airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to arrange transport to Kaziranga. Confirm fare before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.

• Plan your road journey from Guwahati to Kaziranga during daylight hours to avoid difficult driving conditions and enjoy scenic views.

• Reserve accommodation in Kaziranga in advance, especially during peak season from November to April, to ensure availability near the park entrances.

• Carry essential documents like ID proofs and park permits, which can be arranged through your hotel or local tour operators for smooth entry.

• Pack light but include rain gear and comfortable walking shoes, as Kaziranga involves outdoor activities and occasional rain showers.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs at Guwahati airport to avoid scams and inflated fares common in Indian airports.

• Drink only bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants or dhabas with good hygiene to prevent stomach issues during your journey.

• Book train and flight tickets well in advance through IRCTC and airline apps, especially during festival seasons like Diwali or Assam’s Bihu when demand spikes.

• Use local shared autos or cycle rickshaws for short distances within Kaziranga and nearby towns; negotiate fares before starting the ride.

• Pack your luggage in waterproof bags or covers, as Assam’s monsoon season can cause sudden heavy rains and wet conditions.

• Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications, as medical facilities near Kaziranga are limited and may require travel to bigger towns.

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 frequent. Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, making travel difficult.

Winter mornings can be foggy in Assam, causing delays in flights and road travel. Planning your departure during mid-morning hours helps avoid fog-related disruptions.

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

• Monsoon rains can cause waterlogging and roadblocks on NH27 and NH37, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey.

• Early morning departures from Mumbai and Guwahati help you avoid city traffic and reach your destination on time.

• Winter months bring cooler temperatures but also morning fog, so plan flights and road travel accordingly to minimize delays.

Arrival at Kaziranga National Park & What to Expect

On arrival near Kaziranga, you will find several options for local transport including prepaid taxis, shared jeeps, and hotel shuttles. The park has multiple entry gates, so confirm your accommodation’s nearest gate for smooth access.

Popular areas to stay include Kohora, Bagori, and Agoratoli, which have a range of lodges and resorts. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are limited inside the park area, so arranging transport through your hotel is advisable. The park’s main entrance has basic facilities, and local guides are available for safaris.

Conclusion

Flying from Mumbai to Guwahati followed by a road transfer to Kaziranga is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach the national park. This option saves time and reduces travel fatigue, allowing you to enjoy your wildlife adventure fully.

Plan your tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak seasons, and use prepaid transport services for safety and convenience. With proper preparation, you can confidently explore Kaziranga’s unique wildlife and natural beauty without hassle.