Kaziranga National Park in India

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
The official Website of Ministry of Tourism
Protectedplanet.net

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1985
Size of heritage: 42,996 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 93,417°
Latitude: 26,667°

Summary

In the heart of Assam, this park is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by a human presence. It is inhabited by the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds.

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Kaziranga National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in India

Kaziranga National Park, located in the northeastern state of Assam, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and conservation efforts. Spanning an area of approximately 430 square kilometers, the park is nestled in the floodplains of the mighty Brahmaputra River and is home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna.

History

The history of Kaziranga National Park dates back to 1904 when Lady Curzon, the wife of the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, visited the region. Deeply moved by the rampant hunting and poaching of the one-horned rhinoceros, she urged her husband to take immediate action to protect these magnificent creatures. Consequently, in 1905, Kaziranga was declared a reserved forest, making it the first protected area in India.

Over the years, the park faced numerous challenges, including encroachment, illegal logging, and poaching. However, the relentless efforts of conservationists and the Assam Forest Department have helped preserve and protect this unique ecosystem. In recognition of its outstanding universal value, Kaziranga National Park was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.

Current State

Kaziranga National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, boasting an incredible array of wildlife species. It is most famous for its population of the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros, which accounts for two-thirds of the world's total population. The park is also home to other iconic species such as the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer.

The park's diverse vegetation includes tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical forests. These habitats provide a safe haven for over 35 mammal species, including the elusive clouded leopard, sloth bear, and Indian pangolin. Additionally, Kaziranga is a bird lover's paradise, with over 480 avian species, including the globally threatened Bengal florican and great Indian hornbill.

Conservation efforts in Kaziranga National Park have been commendable. The park's management focuses on anti-poaching activities, habitat restoration, and community engagement. The dedicated forest guards, armed with modern technology and trained elephants, patrol the park to deter poachers and protect the wildlife. The park also collaborates with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods and reduce human-wildlife conflicts.

However, Kaziranga faces ongoing challenges. The park is prone to annual flooding, which disrupts the lives of both wildlife and local communities. Additionally, the encroachment of forest land and the illegal trade of wildlife parts remain persistent threats. Nevertheless, the Assam Forest Department, in collaboration with various organizations and stakeholders, continues to work tirelessly to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of this unique ecosystem.

In conclusion, Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense ecological significance. Its rich biodiversity, including the iconic Indian one-horned rhinoceros, combined with successful conservation efforts, make it a symbol of hope for wildlife conservation worldwide. As visitors explore this remarkable park, they not only witness the wonders of nature but also contribute to the preservation of this invaluable heritage for future generations.