About Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary
Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary is a 70.13 sq km protected area on the south bank of the Brahmaputra River in Nagaon district, Assam. Notified in 1972, it comprises alluvial grasslands, wetlands and forests of the Brahmaputra floodplain. It forms part of the larger Laokhowa-Burhachapori ecosystem and is known for Indian one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, and diverse resident and migratory birds.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a flat Brahmaputra floodplain landscape of tall grasslands, beels (wetlands) and patches of forest. Access is via jeep safari tracks and watch towers with forest guide. Sightings may include Indian rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, deer, wild boar and numerous bird species. Facilities are basic and centred at the forest range office and inspection bungalow. The area is seasonal and best explored in winter when water levels are low.
Key highlights
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70.13 sq km Brahmaputra floodplain sanctuary with grassland and wetland habitat
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Part of the contiguous Laokhowa-Burhachapori wildlife complex
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Habitat for Indian one-horned rhinoceros and wild water buffalo
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Important birdwatching site for resident and migratory waterfowl
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Watch towers and jeep tracks for wildlife viewing
History of Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1972 covering 70.13 sq km on the south bank of the Brahmaputra. The sanctuary once held a significant population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros which was lost in the 1980s. It is now part of the Laokhowa-Burhachapori ecosystem and has been a focus of rhino reintroduction efforts through translocations from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 programme.
Culture & Context
Represents the natural heritage of the Brahmaputra valley floodplain and is valued for conservation education and eco-tourism in Assam, supporting awareness of grassland-wetland ecosystems among local communities.
Route
| By air |
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