Assam: Kaziranga sets new tourism record with 406,564 visitors: What's driving the surge?

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) in Assam has achieved a historic milestone by welcoming an unprecedented 406,564 tourists, including 17,693 international visitors, during the fiscal year 2024-25. This remarkable surge reflects a fourfold increase over the past decade, underscoring the park's growing appeal as a premier global wildlife destination.

Surge in tourist numbersThe steady rise in visitor numbers is evident when comparing recent statistics:

• 2014-15: 132,930 visitors
• 2021-22: 234,416 visitors
• 2022-23: 324,836 visitors
• 2023-24: 327,493 visitors
• 2024-25: 406,564 visitors

Interestingly, foreign visitors now make up about 4.5% of all visitors, demonstrating Kaziranga's increased appeal on a global scale.

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Economic impactThis influx has had a significant positive impact on the local economy; the park will generate INR 10.90 crore in 2024–2025, a significant rise from INR 2.85 crore in 2014–15. The rise in the number of tourists has helped to provide the much required boost to local companies, which in turn lead to increased activity in shops, eateries, and lodging facilities, and thereby, resulting in economic growth in the nearby villages.


Attractions and initiativesAs per the records, Kaziranga's numerous attractions have also been crucial in drawing visitors from both domestic and foreign countries. Along with tigers, elephants, and a diverse array of birds, the park is well-known for its one-horned rhinoceros population. Furthermore, recent initiatives have improved its reputation among travellers, such as:

Bird Safari in Panbari: Launched in February, this initiative has managed to attract bird enthusiasts from across the globe.

Cycling in Kohora and Panpur Jeep Safari: These activities offer unique ways to explore the park's landscapes.

Boat Safari in Biswanath Wildlife Division: Provides serene river adventures, adding to the park's array of experiences.

These initiatives not only enrich visitor experiences but also promote eco-friendly tourism practices.

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High-profile visits and global recognition The park's prominence has been elevated by visits from distinguished personalities:

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan: His visit marked a significant moment for Kaziranga.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: In March 2024, he became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the park since its designation as a National Park in 1974.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar: Led a delegation of 60 foreign Heads of Mission to the park in February 2025 as part of the Advantage Assam 2.0 initiative, highlighting its global significance.

Furthermore, The New York Times has featured Assam and Kaziranga among its "Must-See" global destinations, amplifying the region's tourism potential.

Government initiatives and sustainable tourism
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Assam government has prioritized eco-friendly tourism. Incentives for electric safari vehicles have been introduced to minimize environmental impact. Kaziranga also hosted the 12th International Tourism Mart in November 2024, underscoring its role in promoting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts globally.

The record-breaking number of visitors to Kaziranga National Park in 2024–2025 is evidence of both its timeless appeal and the successful efforts made to increase it. In addition to providing unmatched animal encounters, the park makes a substantial economic and international contribution to Assam.