Kaziranga Elephant Safari Reopens 1 November for 2026–27 Season: Official Order, Capacity & Tariffs
The Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division has officially notified that elephant safaris in Kaziranga National Park reopen for general tourists on 1 November 2026 for the 2026–27 tourist season. Morning rides commence in Western Range (Bagori) and Central Range (Kohora).
Nezo Field Operations & Logistics
Direct from our desk in Kaziranga, Assam
Official Order from Eastern Assam Wildlife Division
Issued by the Office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Kaziranga National Park, Bokakhat (PIN 785612), under O. O. No. 619 and Memo No. B/WLG/KNP Visit/25/7990 dated 31.10.2026:
Verbatim Order Transcript:
“This is for general information to all concerned that the Elephant Safari in Western Range - Bagori, and Kaziranga Range - Kohora under jurisdiction of Eastern Assam Wildlife Division will be reopened for tourist from 1st November, 2026 onwards for the tourist season 2026-27.”
Range Seating Capacity: Bagori vs Kohora
Elephant rides take place exclusively in two sectors. Saddle (howdah) capacities are regulated according to terrain dynamics:
Open Floodplains & Rhino Encounters
Bagori terrain features wide, flat grassland and shallow margins around Donga Beel. Howdahs accommodate 2 to 4 guests per elephant. This range offers Kaziranga’s highest rhino density and direct eye-level sightings in broad daylight.
Marshlands & Tall Elephant Grass
Departing from Mihimukh Tower, Kohora routes cross narrow riverine channels and dense 10-foot grass corridors. Mounts carry 2 to 3 guests for balance across soft marsh banks. Ideal for dawn mist, barasingha deer, and birding.
Official Shift Schedule & Daily Timings
Elephant safaris run only at dawn to respect animal welfare and avoid midday heat. Arrive at the riding tower 20 minutes prior to boarding:
| Batch | Shift Timings | Ride Duration | Lighting & Sighting Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batch 1 (First Dawn) | 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM | 45–60 minutes | Mount in pre-dawn twilight; ride as sunlight breaks over the wetland mist. |
| Batch 2 (Sunlight) | 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM | 45–60 minutes | Clearer ambient light for photography. Best choice during foggy December & January mornings. |
Official 2026–27 Rates & Booking Deposit
Safaris are priced per individual seat. Following Assam Government guidelines, tariffs are structured transparently:
Includes departmental seat fare, park entrance fees, and operational forest levies. Still camera fee is ₹100.
Includes foreigner entry permit, seat fare, and conservation surcharge. Still camera fee is ₹200.
Child Policy: Children under 5 years sit on an accompanying parent’s lap without an additional seat charge. Children aged 5 and older require an individual seat.
Advance Deposit: Online pre-reservation requires a refundable deposit of ₹999 per seat to lock in forest department counter quota allocations.
What to Know Before Mounting at Dawn
Our field staff operate daily in Bokakhat, Kohora, and Bagori. Here are practical pointers for a smooth experience:
- Wear warm layers: Open rides to the tower at 5:00 AM are crisp and windy (12°C–16°C in November, dropping to 8°C in January). A fleece or light jacket is essential.
- Expect morning dew: Elephants walk straight through 10-foot-tall grass. Dew wipes onto trousers and footwear. Dark, quick-drying trousers work best.
- Keep a steady grip: The wooden saddle rocks gently as the elephant negotiates soft earth and mud banks. Hold the rail securely with at least one hand.
- Flash is strictly prohibited: Flash photography startles rhinos and disturbs working elephants. Natural morning light is ample for photos.