About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a small wildlife sanctuary in Morigaon district of Assam, about 30 km east of Guwahati near Mayong on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River. Covering about 38.81 sq km of alluvial grassland and wetlands, it is renowned for having the highest density of Indian one-horned rhinoceros in the world, along with wild buffalo, leopards and over 200 bird species, making it a key rhino conservation site in Assam.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a compact floodplain landscape of tall grasslands, wetlands (beels) and woodland patches. The main visitor experience is guided jeep safari and elephant safari through designated tracks to view Indian one-horned rhinoceros, wild buffalo, wild boar and migratory birds. Watchtowers and wetland edges at Garanga and Haduk Beels offer birdwatching and photography opportunities. The sanctuary has a simple forest gate, interpretation area and eco-camp accommodation nearby.
Key highlights
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Highest density of Indian one-horned rhinoceros in the world
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Important birding site with over 200 bird species including migratory waterfowl
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Jeep safari and elephant safari through grassland and wetland habitats
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Scenic wetlands Garanga Beel and Haduk Beel within the sanctuary
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Close proximity to Guwahati, ideal for a day trip
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Successful rhino conservation area with population over 100
History of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Originally a grazing reserve, the area was declared as Pobitora Reserve Forest in 1971 and notified as Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in 1987 covering 38.81 sq km to protect the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The sanctuary has shown significant conservation success, with the rhino population increasing from a few individuals to over 100.
Culture & Context
The sanctuary lies adjacent to Mayong village, traditionally known in Assamese folklore as the land of magic and tantric practices. The surrounding landscape reflects rural Assamese culture with wetland-based livelihoods, and the sanctuary is an important eco-tourism site for the region.
Route
| By air |
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