The short answer
Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Only for dedicated naturalists with time to spare. It is quiet and rarely visited, so confirm access and a guide before you go, and do not expect Manas-style infrastructure.
History and context
The story behind Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary was established in 1980 to protect the hispid hare and pygmy hog. It covers about 26 sq km and is named after the Bornadi river on its western boundary.
Useful facts
Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Udalguri and Baksa districts, near Tangla
- Area
- About 26 sq km
- Established
- 1980
- Known for
- Hispid hare, pygmy hog and grassland birds
- Distance
- About 30 km from Tangla; about 130 km from Guwahati
Why it matters
Why Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary is worth your time
Bornadi protects a corner of the grassland and forest landscape that once covered much of the Himalayan foothills in Assam. It was created to protect the hispid hare and pygmy hog, two small and highly endangered grassland species.
Visiting a small sanctuary like this helps put Manas in context: it shows that the region's wildlife depends on a chain of protected areas, not one famous park. It also supports the idea that conservation is a patchwork of small, often overlooked places.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Grassland habitat
Part of the foothill grassland that supports rare small mammals.
- 02
Birdlife
Hornbills, peafowl and the Bengal florican are recorded.
- 03
Quiet
Few visitors and a very different pace from Manas.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Bornadi lies on the foothills along the Bhutan border, about 30 km from Tangla and around 130 km from Guwahati. It is a day trip from the Manas area only if you have a driver and a clear plan, as travel takes several hours and signage is sparse.
Once there, the habitat is a mix of grassland and forest, beside the Bornadi river. Birdlife recorded here includes hornbills, peafowl and the Bengal florican, and mammals include deer, leopard and golden langur. Sightings depend heavily on patience and local guidance.
Bring your own food and water, and check the weather, because access roads can be affected by rain. This is a destination for people who value quiet, not for a first-time safari.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm access and permissions in advance
- Hire a local driver
- Bring water, food and layers
- Do not rely on phone signal
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Udalguri and Baksa districts, Assam, near Tangla
- Time needed
- Half a day
- Best time
- November to February
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Facilities are minimal and access can be rough. Plan the visit with a local driver and carry your own water and food.
- Tickets and access
- Check access, permissions and any fees with the forest department or Bodoland tourism before you plan. Rules are less standardised than at Manas.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Facilities are minimal and access can be rough. Plan the visit with a local driver and carry your own water and food.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Why was Bornadi created?
In 1980, to protect the hispid hare and the pygmy hog.
Is Bornadi close to Manas?
It is in the same foothill region, but a day trip involves several hours of travel. Plan it with a driver.
Is it good for first-time visitors?
Manas is easier. Bornadi suits naturalists who want somewhere quiet.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
