The park is renowned for its population of Indian One-horned Rhinoceros, which is its flagship species. Other major mammals include Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, Leopards, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, and Water Buffalo. The park supports over 222 species of birds, including the critically endangered Bengal Florican, Greater Adjutant Stork, and various waterfowl. The wetlands host numerous fish species and reptiles, including the Indian Python, Monitor Lizard, and various turtle species. The park's location along the Brahmaputra flyway makes it an important destination for migratory birds.
Orang National Park supports a diverse array of vegetation types, primarily characterized by semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and extensive grasslands. The dominant grass species include Saccharum spontaneum, Imperata cylindrica, and Phragmites karka. The woodland areas feature trees such as Bombax ceiba (Cotton Tree), Dalbergia sissoo (Indian Rosewood), and Acacia catechu (Khair). The park also contains numerous wetland plants and aquatic vegetation in its numerous water bodies, creating a mosaic of different habitats.
The park's landscape has been shaped by the mighty Brahmaputra River, which forms its northern boundary. The terrain consists primarily of alluvial flood plains and riverine grasslands, created by the continuous depositional activities of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries. The soil is mostly alluvial, ranging from sandy loam to clay loam, supporting rich vegetation. The park's elevation ranges from 45-75 meters above sea level, with numerous water bodies and channels crisscrossing the landscape, creating a unique wetland ecosystem.
Orang National Park, also known as the 'Mini Kaziranga,' was initially established as a game reserve in 1915 during British colonial rule. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985 and subsequently elevated to national park status in 1999. The park has historically been home to indigenous Bodo and Adivasi communities. Its establishment as a protected area came in response to increasing threats to wildlife, particularly the Indian rhinoceros population. The park has played a crucial role in conservation efforts and has successfully maintained a stable rhinoceros population despite facing challenges from poaching activities.
Orang National Park's most distinctive feature is its role as a miniature version of Kaziranga, offering similar wildlife experiences in a more compact area of 78.81 square kilometers. The park's network of watchtowers provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for rhinoceros and tigers. The Brahmaputra River's presence creates a unique riverine ecosystem, with numerous channels and beels (wetlands) that support diverse aquatic life. The park's relatively small size makes it more accessible for visitors, while its location between Kaziranga and Manas National Parks makes it an important wildlife corridor. The park also features several anti-poaching camps and a successful conservation program for the Indian rhinoceros.
Orang National Park experiences a subtropical monsoon climate typical of Northeast India. The region sees three distinct seasons: summer (March-May) with temperatures reaching 35°C, monsoon (June-September) with heavy rainfall averaging 2,000mm annually, and winter (November-February) with temperatures dropping to around 15°C. The best time to visit is between November and April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife viewing conditions are optimal. During monsoon season, parts of the park may become inaccessible due to flooding from the Brahmaputra River.
India
26.4830°, 92.2670°
1999
78.81
Orang National Park is known as mini Kaziranga due to its similar landscape and wildlife. The park is home to the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros and royal Bengal tigers. It features extensive wetlands and grasslands along the Brahmaputra River.