Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Pobitora covers only about thirty-eight square kilometres, of which the rhino habitat is around sixteen, and it holds well over a hundred greater one-horned rhinoceros, which gives it the highest density of the species anywhere; animals are routinely seen within minutes of entering. That density is also the problem: the sanctuary is far above its estimated carrying capacity, animals stray into surrounding farmland, and translocation to other reserves has been used to relieve it. Wild buffalo, leopard and a substantial winter bird population on the wetlands share the area. Its proximity to Guwahati makes it a common half-day trip.

What you actually see

• The rhinos - the densest population in the world, seen quickly and close.
• The grassland and beels - short grass and wetlands across a small area.
• The winter birds - migratory waterfowl on the wetland areas.
• The elephant safari - short early morning rides into the grassland.

When to go

November to April; the sanctuary closes in the monsoon when the area floods. Early morning gives the best sightings and cooler weather. Elephant safari slots are limited.

Honest expectations

The sanctuary is very small and a visit is short. Overcrowding of rhinos is a genuine management problem, and human-wildlife conflict in surrounding villages is significant. Vehicle numbers can make sightings crowded.

Nearby

Guwahati lies west; Kaziranga is east.