When we think of wildlife tours in India, names like Jim Corbett or Ranthambore often come to mind. But if you’re looking for something less crowded, more peaceful, and truly wild, it’s time to turn your eyes to the Northeast — especially Assam and Meghalaya.
These two beautiful states are home to some of the most unique, offbeat wildlife experiences you can find in India. From rare species like the one-horned rhinoceros to deep caves with underground creatures, this guide will show you how to explore the wild side of Northeast India like never before.
1. Manas National Park, Assam
Why it’s special: UNESCO World Heritage Site, fewer tourists, raw jungle beauty
Located on the foothills of the Himalayas near the Bhutan border, Manas is one of India’s most underrated national parks. Unlike crowded parks, Manas offers a calm, untouched forest where you can spot wild buffaloes, elephants, golden langurs, tigers, and even the rare red panda (if you’re very lucky!).
Top activities:
- Jeep safaris inside the park
- River rafting on the Manas River
- Birdwatching (over 450 bird species)
2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam
Why it’s special: High density of one-horned rhinos in a small area
If spotting a one-horned rhinoceros is on your bucket list, skip the Kaziranga crowds and head to Pobitora, just 1.5 hours from Guwahati. It’s small, quiet, and has one of the highest rhino densities in the world.
Top activities:
- Early morning jeep safaris
- Nature walk near the marshlands
- Interact with local villages nearby
3. Nameri National Park, Assam
Why it’s special: Perfect mix of adventure and nature
Located near Arunachal Pradesh, Nameri is ideal for those who love both wildlife and thrill. It’s a tiger reserve, but spotting big cats here is rare — instead, you’ll find wild elephants, hornbills, sambars, and a peaceful river that flows through the forest.
Top activities:
- Guided forest treks (on foot!)
- River rafting on the Jia Bhoroli River
- Birdwatching (home to the endangered white-winged wood duck)
4. Balpakram National Park, Meghalaya
Why it’s special: Called the “Land of Spirits,” full of myths and untouched beauty
Located in South Garo Hills, Balpakram is one of the most offbeat wildlife parks in India. It’s believed to be sacred by local tribes. The park is home to wild elephants, barking deer, rare civets, leopards, and even clouded leopards.
Top activities:
- Trekking in the Garo hills
- Exploring limestone caves nearby
- Spotting wildlife with local guides
5. Siju Wildlife Sanctuary, Meghalaya
Why it’s special: Home to one of the longest cave systems in India
This sanctuary is not just about forests — it’s also famous for the Siju Caves, filled with bats and underground life. If you’re looking for something truly offbeat, this place is a mix of adventure, mystery, and rare birds.
Top activities:
- Explore the dark, winding Siju caves
- Birdwatching (especially grey hornbills)
- Visit the nearby Simsang River valley
Tips for Planning an Offbeat Wildlife Tour in Assam & Meghalaya
- Best time to visit: November to April (cool, dry weather and better chances of sightings)
- Book locally guided tours: Many areas are eco-sensitive, and local guides know the forest best
- Respect tribal customs: Especially in Meghalaya, where nature is closely tied to culture
- Travel light but smart: Carry binoculars, insect repellent, and good walking shoes
- Avoid plastic and loud noises: Let’s keep the forest clean and peaceful
How to Get There
- Assam: Guwahati is the main gateway. From there, you can reach Manas, Pobitora, and Nameri by road.
- Meghalaya: Shillong is the capital. From there, head toward Garo Hills for Balpakram and Siju.
Why Choose Offbeat Wildlife Tours?
Big parks are amazing, but sometimes the best stories come from places where the path is less walked. In these lesser-known parks of Assam and Meghalaya, you don’t just spot animals, you feel the forest, hear its sounds, and connect with the land in a more personal way.
Plan It With Tripoventure
At Tripoventure, we don’t just plan trips — we craft experiences. From eco-friendly wildlife stays to guided jungle tours and custom itineraries, we help you explore Assam and Meghalaya in a way that’s wild, ethical, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, an adventure junkie, or someone who simply wants to reconnect with nature — we’ve got your trip covered.
🌿 Explore the iconic Kaziranga National Park — home of the one-horned rhino with our Kaziranga Tour Package
🐘 Discover Assam’s wild treasures with our specially curated Assam Wildlife Tour Package
Ready to explore the wild Northeast?
Let Tripoventure take you there.