Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, often referred to as the “Mini Kaziranga”. Famous for its dense population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses and located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River in the Morigaon district of Assam, India. A short drive from Guwahati is all you need to visit one of the most beautiful and unique picnic spots near Guwahati.
A Brief History of Pobitora
The government made Pobitora a forest reserve in 1971 and turned it into a wildlife sanctuary in 1987, creating a safe home for one-horned rhinos.
Kaziranga has more rhinos overall with 2,000 spread across 430 square kilometers, but Pobitora fits 102 rhinos in just 38.8 square kilometers, making it the most densely packed rhino home in the world.
The sanctuary gets its name from a sad but beautiful story – it was named after Pobitora, a young princess who died too soon. She was the daughter of the king of Mayong, and her story lives on in the old tales of this land.
The Beauty of Pobitora
The Brahmaputra River forms a natural boundary to the north, while the Garanga Beel surrounds its southern edge. The sanctuary’s vegetation is predominantly composed of wet savannahs, with 72% of its area covered by grasses such as Arundo donax, Erianthus ravennae, and Saccharum spp.
In terms of wildlife, Pobitora is home to not only the iconic one-horned rhinoceros but also various other species including leopards, wild boars, barking deer, and wild buffalo.
The sanctuary is also a must visit spot for birdwatchers, hosting over 375 species of resident and migratory birds such as the Indian pied hornbill, osprey, hill myna, and kalij pheasant.
How to Reach Pobitora
Pobitora is located around 48 kilometers from Guwahati, making it easily accessible by various modes of transport:
By Car or Car Rental in Guwahati
From Guwahati, a drive to Pobitora takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You can hire a taxi or use a car rental service like Taxi Nation for a comfortable ride. The route via Chandrapur Road is beautiful in itself, passing through small Assamese villages and the gorgeous forest.
By Bus
Local buses operate from Guwahati to Mayong, a village near Pobitora. From there, you can hire a shared or private vehicle to the sanctuary.
By Bike
For adventurers, biking to the wildlife sanctuary can be an exhilarating experience. The well-built roads make it a safe journey for bikers.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Pobitora, you can also explore:
- Mayong Village: Known as the land of black magic, this village has a fascinating history and offers a glimpse into local folklore.
- Brahmaputra River: Enjoy the beauty of the mighty Brahmaputra, which is just a short drive from Pobitora.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a serene picnic spot, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary ticks all the boxes. Its proximity to Guwahati, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination. Plan your trip today, and let Pobitora’s charm create unforgettable memories.
