Kaziranga Jeep Safari Reopens 3 October for 2026–27 Season: Official DFO Order & Phased Range Rollout
The Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division has officially notified that Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve will open for general tourists for jeep safaris starting 3rd October 2026. Following the morning opening ceremony, Central (Kohora) and Western (Bagori) ranges will open first together, with remaining ranges opening in gradual phases.
Nezo Field Operations & Logistics
Direct from our home in Kaziranga, Assam
Official Notice from Eastern Assam Wildlife Division
Issued from the Office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Kaziranga National Park, Bokakhat (785612), under Memo No. B/WLG/KNP Visit/2026/6995-7008 dated 30.09.2026, signed by Arun Vignesh C S, IFS:
Verbatim Notice Transcript:
“This is for general information of all concerned that the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve under jurisdiction of Eastern Assam Wildlife Division shall be opened for general tourists for the ecotourism season 2026-27 for Jeep Safari from 3rd October, 2026 onwards.
Entry Time (Morning): 7.30 to 10.00 AM
Entry Time (Afternoon): 1.30 to 3.00 PM”
Opening Ceremony & Phased Range Rollout
While the general notice confirms the October 3 opening date, operational coordination with the Forest Department confirms the exact zone rollout schedule:
Central (Kohora) & Western (Bagori)
Following the formal opening ceremony on October 3 morning, these two flagship ranges will welcome the first tourist jeeps. Both ranges have dried quickest and road maintenance crews have cleared primary viewing circuits around wetlands and grass corridors.
Eastern (Agaratoli) & Burapahar
Agaratoli (Sohola Beel) and Burapahar (hilly shaded canopy) remain closed during the first days of October. These ranges contain lower-lying riverine terrain where forest bridges and muddy culverts require additional drying and reinforcement.
Official Shift & Gate Entry Timings (October 2026)
Jeep safaris run in two scheduled shifts daily. Guests must arrive at the designated range ticket counter with valid government photo ID before the gate entry window closes:
| Shift | Gate Entry Window | Exit Deadline | Expected Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning Shift | 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM | Exit by 12:00 PM noon | Crisp morning mist, active wetland waterfowl, cooler weather |
| Afternoon Shift | 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM | Exit by 5:00 PM / Sunset | Prime mammal sightings: rhinos and wild buffaloes grazing near waterholes |
What to Realistically Expect During Early October Safaris
From our home in Kaziranga, we believe in providing honest, grounded expectations. Here is what you should know about visiting in early October:
- Shortened Safari Distance: In early October, jeeps cover roughly 50% to 60% of the normal winter safari route. Forest guards open only the high, dry gravel routes while interior mud tracks dry out.
- Lush Green Grasslands: The park looks strikingly green and revitalized right after the monsoon floods, offering magnificent landscape photography.
- No Elephant Safaris Yet: Departmental riding elephants cannot traverse soft post-flood marshes safely. Elephant safaris open promptly on November 1.
- Book Central or Western: Do not attempt to travel to Agaratoli or Burapahar expecting full operations until mid-October announcements. Stick to Kohora and Bagori.