The Kaziranga National Park

The Kaziranga National Park

Last year, we explored the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir, known as the “paradise on earth.” This year, we ventured into the enchanting Seven Sisters states in the North East of India-The Kaziranga National Park. Our gang of 15 gung-ho women in their fifties set out for an incredible summer holiday. A rousing welcome by the vibrant and graceful Bihu dancers at the airport set the tone for the trip.

Mesmerizing Seven Sisters

The rugged landscapes, lush greenery, and vibrant cultures of the Seven Sisters states mesmerized us at every turn. From the wildlife at Kaziranga to the rolling hills of Meghalaya, and ended with the graceful and lyrical dance style of Manipur. The diverse tapestry of this province is engrossing. The experience of the off-the-beaten-path destinations exploring the wild Kaziranga was thrilling. Indulging in authentic local cuisine, and connecting with the warm-hearted people we encountered along the way, was the cherry on the cake.

We created memories that will last a lifetime; laughed, played puerile games, sang and danced, and shared stories. We continue to prove that age is just a number, and adventure knows no limits.

So, here’s to another summer holiday done right, with my incredible gang of empowered women. We prove once again that life is to be lived to the fullest, regardless of our age. Vijayawada to Hyderabad and then a long haul to Guwahati airport.

Our trip was full of incredible moments. The vehicle with small seats, the non-existent AC, and the scorching weather that we were escaping from in Andhra Pradesh did not dampen our spirits. We drove down to Kaziranga Park, which was a good 220 km away.

Woody Bogors Resort

Late evening, we checked into Borgos Resort and Spa; perched at the fringe of the iconic Kaziranga National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) famous for two-thirds of the world’s population of one-horned rhinos. ‘Borgos’ is the Axomiya word for ‘banyan tree. Borgos is a resort with a life and soul that derives its serenity from its surroundings.

Local bamboo and wood added to the Assamese architecture make sure you’re at leisure in the lap of nature. It includes elegant rooms and suites, upscale amenities, a variety of dining options and beautiful event venues. A peaceful sanctum, bang amidst the wilderness of Kaziranga. It seemed incredibly secluded, yet easily accessible.

Borgos Resort in Kaziranga is a loving tribute to the alluring flora and fauna that surround it. The resort respects the environment.

Bogors Food

A 24×7 dining restaurant that offers a delectable spread of Indian and international cuisines. The dinner buffet was a gourmand experience. The next morning, we again tucked in the decadent breakfast complete. Bogors also presents truly authentic, undiluted Assamese dishes using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

They rightly named the amenity centres in the resort after the animals in the Sanctuary-There is Jackal Pool Room, Buffalo Gym, the Deer Conference Hall, a Rhino auditorium and the Jasmine Spa.

Women and retail therapy go hand in hand and the Kabaree Shopping Centre showcased locally sourced items; Clothes and bags, Assamese Tea, handicrafts, and elaborate jewellery. I set my heart on the giant parasol made with the traditional red and white Gamusa. But one cannot carry it back home on the flight.

 

 

 

 

 

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The Kaziranga National Park

After a hot day, you can cool off in the Diffloo Swimming Pool.

Before dinner, we were fortunate to see the graceful Bihu and Jhumair performances on the immaculate lawns.

“Luscious forests, tall grasslands and swampy lagoons give Kaziranga its unique landscape that is home to some of the most remarkable flora and fauna. It has been regarded as one of the finest wildlife refuges in the world,” says the Borgos resort.

On the dot of the 8.30 am call, we embarked on three jeep safaris through the dense forests of Kaziranga that are home to one-horned rhinos, tigers, swamp deer, wild buffaloes and elephants.

I learnt a salutary lesson that I should read up on the safaris before the trip. I would have loved to take the elephant safari at 5 am to explore the denser and more remote areas of the forest. Sighting a tiger in the wild would be an amazing & thrilling experience.

I would have given anything for a glimpse of the golden tiger with cinnamon stripes or the orange and black. The Lord of the Jungle is the tiger for me and not the lion. I had my grandson, Arian, on a video call from Mexico, excited to see the animals that he infinitely admires.

Kaziranga is a Bird watcher’s paradise. When we got off the jeeps in an open enclosure by the lake, the guide pointed out to the cutest looking baby turtles hanging on to a twig in the lake.

The Kaziranga National Park

How to reach Kaziranga–

You can take the train or flight to Guwahati and then drive down to Kaziranga.

Best Season:

November to February or February to May. Park is closed from May to October

Elephant safari:

Opt for the Elephant safari at 5.30 am or the Jeep safari at 8.30 am

Safari prices:

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Zariya Healings.

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