| Pobitora or Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve in the state of Assam in India, 30 km east and 50 km by road from Guwahati, passing by River Brahmaputra, covering flat flood plains and a hillock. It has perhaps the greatest density of the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceroses. While famous for its great Indian One-horned rhinoceros, one finds other animals: Leopards, wild boars, Barking deer, wild buffalos, etc. The waterside location also makes the park an ornithologist’s treat, with over 86 species of birds present. Some are migratory birds, while others are local residents like the Grey-hooded Warbler and the White-vented Myna. Some species close to extinction also frequent Pobitora including Nordmann’s Greenshank and the Greater Adjutant. It is also home to various reptiles. With an ever increasing population of rhinos, Pobitora has exceeded its rhino-bearing capacity and is overpopulated, and are now being translocated and re-introduced to other national parks. Like most national parks in India, Pobitora is shut during the monsoon season, closing end of April or mid May, re-opening beginning of October, depending on the weather. It can be a bit chilly in the evenings from November to February, but the sun usually comes out during the day. After April, summer starts to set in and making outdoor activities rather uncomfortable. Picturesque mustard fields in full bloom make a visit during December and January attractive. One can go on short safaris on either 4-wd vehicles or elephants. Both have advantages and disadvantages: Elephant-back enables one to get close to the rhinos, the ride can be uncomfortable, and some believe it is cruel to ride elephants. Vehicles follow the road and tend to be dusty. Overall, the terrain of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
is a breathtaking experience for a traveler or an admirer of nature.
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