Kaziranga National Park Achieves Record Footfall; Becomes India's 3rd Most Visited Park

Why in News?

Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) in Assam has recorded its highest-ever tourist footfall, welcoming 443,636 visitors between October 1, 2024, and May 18, 2025. This milestone positions Kaziranga as the third most visited national park in India, following Periyar in Kerala and Ranthambore in Rajasthan.

Important Key Points:

Visitor Statistics:
- Total Visitors: 443,636
- Foreign Tourists: 18,463, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.
- Overall Growth: A 35% rise in total footfall compared to the previous season.
Revenue Generation:
- Total Revenue: Over ₹11 crore collected during the 2024–25 tourist season.
Factors Contributing to the Surge:
- Diversified Tourism Activities: Introduction of bird watching, trekking, boat tourism, dolphin viewing, cycling tracks, and safaris in adjacent reserves.
- Infrastructure Enhancements: Improved roads, eco-friendly accommodations, and enhanced visitor amenities.
- High-Profile Visits: Visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and over 60 Heads of Mission have boosted the park’s visibility.
- Effective Marketing: Aggressive campaigns and events like the International Tourism Mart have promoted Kaziranga as a premier wildlife destination.
- Conservation Success: The park’s efforts in conserving the one-horned rhinoceros and other rare species continue to attract wildlife enthusiasts.
- Economic Impact: The tourism surge has stimulated the local economy, creating jobs and supporting businesses in hospitality, transport, and handicrafts.