Kaziranga (Assam) [India], April 3 (HBTV): Assam's Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has recorded an all-time high in tourist footfall during the financial year 2024-25.

According to data shared by Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve, a total of 4,06,564 tourists, including 17,693 foreign visitors, visited the national park in 2024-25.

‘We have collected a revenue of INR 10.90 crore in 2024-25. In 2014-15, a total of 1,32,930 tourists visited the national park, while the number increased to 2,34,416 in 2021-22. In 2022-23, the figure stood at 3,24,836, and in 2023-24, it was 3,27,493,’ Ghosh said.

She further noted that Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, nestled in the heart of Assam, continues to attract travellers and wildlife enthusiasts, witnessing a fourfold increase in visitors over the last decade. A significant highlight has been the rise in foreign tourists, now comprising 4.5% of the total visitors.

Renowned for its landscapes, rich biodiversity, and iconic one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga has emerged as a leading destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

‘In the past two years, Kaziranga National Park welcomed Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, marking a historic moment. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Prime Minister to visit Kaziranga since its elevation to a national park in 1974, during his visit on March 9, 2024. More recently, Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar, along with 60 Heads of Mission from various countries, visited the park as part of the Advantage Assam 2.0 initiative on February 24, 2025, underscoring its global significance,’ she said.

Ghosh added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Kaziranga has gained recognition as a global tourism destination. The New York Times recently ranked Assam and Kaziranga among its top ‘Must-See’ destinations.

‘The Assam government has prioritised eco-friendly tourism in Kaziranga and announced incentives for electric safari vehicles in the recent budget. Kaziranga also hosted the 12th International Tourism Mart from November 26 to 29, 2024, reinforcing its role in promoting sustainable tourism and conservation on an international platform. Additionally, the park was a key feature of the Advantage Assam Summit, highlighting its role in fostering conservation skills and sustainable tourism under Advantage Assam 2.0,’ she added.

Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve comprises three divisions: Eastern Assam Wildlife Division (Bokakhat), Bishwanath Wildlife Division (Biswanath Chariali), and Nagaon Wildlife Division (Nagaon).

Ghosh highlighted that Kaziranga has seen a tourism boost due to successful initiatives like the Bird Safari in Panbari in Eastern Assam Wildlife Division in February 2025, cycling in Kohora, Panpur Jeep Safari, and the Boat Safari in Biswanath Wildlife Division. These initiatives, aimed at promoting local culture and heritage, have attracted both residents and visitors, making Kaziranga a must-visit destination.

‘The Kaziranga Staff Welfare Society-run eco-shops have successfully showcased curated Kaziranga-themed souvenirs and community products, helping visitors create lasting memories. Local businesses have also benefited from the increased tourist influx, with hotels, restaurants, and shops witnessing a surge in activity. These initiatives have created new opportunities for collaboration between the public and private sectors, further contributing to the region's economic growth,’ she said. (ANI)