Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam’s Hot Springs and Wildlife

Nestled in the lush green folds of the Karbi Anglong Hills in Assam lies one of the state’s oldest protected forests — Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary. The name Garampani literally translates to “hot water”, and the sanctuary earns this name from the natural hot springs and cascading waterfalls that bubble within its dense tropical forest. Despite covering an area of just 6.05 square kilometres, Garampani is a pocket of rich biodiversity — a living museum of flora and fauna where the call of hornbills and gibbons echo through the canopy.

A Sanctuary of Biodiversity

Though small in size, Garampani is immensely rich in its biological diversity. It shelters both tropical and semi-evergreen vegetation, creating a perfect habitat for a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

The sanctuary’s moist tropical climate supports species rarely found elsewhere in such proximity.

Wildlife Highlights

The dense forest is home to several notable mammals, including:

• Tiger, Leopard, and Clouded Leopard

• Barking Deer, Sambar, and Gaur

• Hoolock Gibbon, Capped Langur, and the rare Golden Langur

• Asian Elephant, Slow Loris, and Pig-tailed Macaque

• Smaller species such as the Civet, Mongoose, and Chinese Pangolin also thrive here.

The sanctuary is also a paradise for birdwatchers. With its blend of open clearings and dense canopy, it attracts an astonishing range of avifauna —
Red Jungle Fowl, Khaleej Pheasant, Hornbills, Green Pigeon, Racket-tailed Drongo, Hill Myna, Black-hooded Oriole, Bulbul, Minivet, Kingfisher, Woodpecker, and Brown Fish Owl, to name just a few.

Among the reptiles, Pythons, Cobras, and Monitor Lizards are common, adding to the sanctuary’s dynamic ecosystem.

Hot Springs and Waterfalls

The hot water springs of Garampani are not just a natural curiosity but also a sacred and healing space for locals. The area around these thermal springs is known for its unique microclimate, and the mist that rises from the warm waters gives the forest a mystical charm, especially during early mornings. Small waterfalls hidden in the woods add to the scenic allure — making Garampani a favourite spot for nature walks and photography.

How to Reach Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary

Garampani lies in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, close to the border of Nagaland, and is well-connected by air, rail, and road:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport (55 km) in Nagaland. Jorhat Airport (85 km) is another convenient option.

• By Rail: The closest railway station is Furkuting Junction (20 km), well-linked with Guwahati and other major towns in Assam.

• By Road: Garampani can be reached via National Highway 39. From Guwahati, it’s a scenic 6–7-hour drive through the lush hills and countryside.

• Nearest Town: Golaghat (25 km) serves as the base for travellers, with accommodation and essential services available.

Nearby Attractions

• Kaziranga National Park (65 km): A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and rich birdlife.

• Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary (10 km): Spanning over 37 sq. km, it’s home to more than 50 species of rare orchids.

• Golaghat Town (25 km): Visit Dr Robin Banerjee’s Museum, tea gardens, and the local markets.

• Neghereting Shiva Temple (55 km): An ancient Ahom-era temple set atop a hill surrounded by tea gardens, offering panoramic views.

Best Time to Visit

The sanctuary remains open year-round, but the best season to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and comfortable. During this time, wildlife sightings are frequent, and the forest trails are accessible. Monsoon months (May to September) bring lush greenery and gushing waterfalls, though certain areas may be restricted.

Travel Tips

• Entry to the sanctuary is regulated; permits may be required from the Forest Department.

• It is advisable to visit with a local guide or naturalist for better wildlife spotting.

• Wear muted colours and carry binoculars for birdwatching.

• Respect the environment — avoid littering and maintain silence within the forest area.

Plan Your Visit with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.

For a seamless visit to Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary and nearby destinations like Kaziranga or Nambor, plan your journey with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd., a Ministry of Tourism-approved operator with over two decades of expertise in East and Northeast India.

Contact:
+91 9733300696 / +91 9733000593