8 must-visit national parks in Northeast India this winter

Northeast India offers some of the most unique and pristine national parks in the country. Winter, with its pleasant weather and migratory birds arriving from far-off lands, is the perfect time to explore the wilderness. From one-horned rhinos to red pandas and numerous species of endemic birds, the region promises thrilling encounters for nature lovers.


Here's a look at the top national parks in Northeast India that are ideal for a winter visit.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is famed for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. Winter is the best time to explore the park, as the climate is cool and the grasslands are clearer, making wildlife spotting easier. Apart from rhinos, the park is home to tigers, elephants, swamp deer, and over 400 species of birds, including migratory ones.

Manas National Park, Assam

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas National Park combines picturesque landscapes with an impressive array of wildlife. Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, the park is a haven for endangered species like the golden langur, pygmy hog, and Assam roofed turtle. The Manas River adds to the park’s natural beauty.


Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This park is unique as it shelters four big cat species: tiger, leopard, snow leopard, and clouded leopard. Winter is the ideal time to experience the national park as it is drier and it is no longer humid. Trek through its dense forests to spot birds like hornbills and tragopans.


Nameri National Park, Assam

Nameri is a scenic park perfect for birdwatchers. The park is known for its riverine habitats and forests and is home to the elusive white-winged wood duck. Winter mornings offer serene rafting experiences along the Jia Bhoroli River (known as Kameng River in Arunachal Pradesh).

Keibul Lamjao National Park, Manipur

The world's only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao is located on Loktak Lake. Winter is the ideal time to explore its unique phumdis (floating vegetation) and maybe even spot the endangered sangai deer, also called the dancing deer of Manipur.

Also read: Wild frames: 5 best places to photograph tigers, leopards,and India’s untamed wildlife

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam
If you are into birdwatching, Dibru-Saikhowa is a great place to be. Come winter, Dibru-Saikhowa is a great destination for migratory birds. If you are lucky, you may even get a chance to spot the critically endangered white-winged wood duck.

Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim

Home to Mount Kanchenjunga, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks in winter. The park's high-altitude terrain supports rare species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr.

Also read: Spotting wildlife on foot: Trekking through India’s national parks

Orang National Park, Assam

Orang National Park is also known as Mini Kaziranga. While Kaziranga National Park can sometimes get a bit crowded, Orang offers a quieter wildlife experience. Winter ensures better chances for spotting rhinos, elephants, and migratory birds like pelicans and storks.