Trip at a Glance
About Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
At the far eastern edge of Assam, where the Brahmaputra, Lohit and Dibru rivers meet, Dibru-Saikhowa isn't a conventional national park — it's a biosphere reserve of river islands and semi-evergreen forest, explored entirely by motorised boat rather than jeep.
It's known for a population of feral horses — popularly believed to descend from cavalry or cart horses left behind around the time of the Second World War, though the exact origin is genuinely debated among researchers and no written record confirms it. The park is also home to Gangetic river dolphins, hoolock gibbons, and the endangered white-winged wood duck, making it a quiet draw for birders and slow travellers.
How to Reach Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
Dibrugarh Gateway (~80 km, ~2 hrs)
A scenic drive through tea estates from our home base to the Guijan Ghat or Maguri Motapung Beel entry points.
Tinsukia Railway Hub (~15 km, ~30 min)
The closest major town and station, and the usual jumping-off point for boat safaris.
Arunachal Connection
The park sits near the Dhola-Sadiya bridge, making it a natural add-on before heading toward Anini or Dong Valley.
Things to Do & Curated Circuits
Tier 1: Leisure
The Feral Horse Boat Safari
Full Day · Easy
A full-day motorised boat safari along the river channels, stopping at islands to look for the feral horse herds and river dolphins.
Maguri Motapung Beel Birding
Half Day · Easy
An early-morning excursion by traditional wooden boat into the Maguri wetlands, a well-known stop for migratory birds.
Tier 2: Combined
The Eastern Frontier Loop
Multi-day · Moderate
Combine the riverine wilderness here with the Tai Phake culture of Namphake and a tea-bungalow stay in Dibrugarh.
Season Guide
| Season | Months | Weather & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Avian Season | Nov – Mar | Good water levels for boat safaris; migratory birds fill the wetlands and dry banks make horse-spotting easier. |
| Spring Orchids | Mar – Apr | The park's wild orchids bloom across the canopy. |
| Monsoon (Avoid) | Jun – Sep | Rivers swell and submerge the islands; safaris are heavily restricted or closed. |
Where to Stay in Dibru-Saikhowa
Accommodation Arranged by Nomadic Northeast
Riverside eco-camps run by local communities, close to the boat safari entry points. We arrange the stay as part of your itinerary — you won't need to book anything separately.
What’s Included When You Book With Us
We Arrange
Vehicle & driver, accommodation, permits (where required), local guide and transfers between stops on your itinerary.
Usually Paid Separately
Personal meals beyond what's specified, entry/safari/camera fees, and personal expenses — confirmed exactly in your written quote.
Who This Trip Suits
Ideal For
- ✓ Wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts
- ✓ Slow-travel photographers
Less Suitable For
- × Travellers wanting jeep safaris — this park is boat-only
What to Expect
Full-day boat safaris, limited connectivity near the park, and simple riverside eco-camps.
The Nomadic Northeast Advantage
Home Ground
Operating from Dibrugarh, this is local terrain for us — we work with boat operators and Mishing guides who know the shifting sandbars.
Private Boat Charters
Boats are booked privately for your group, so you're not rushed and can cut the engine to watch wildlife in quiet.
Riverside Eco-Stays
We favour community-run eco-camps on the riverbanks over standard hotels.
Often Combined With
Dibru-Saikhowa pairs naturally with Namphake's Tai Phake culture, or as a last Assam stop before crossing toward Anini or Dong Valley in Arunachal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we do a jeep safari in Dibru-Saikhowa?
No — the terrain is entirely wetlands, rivers and islands, so exploration is by boat only.
Where do the feral horses actually come from?
Their exact origin isn't confirmed. The most-cited theory is descent from army horses left behind around World War II, but researchers note there's no written record, and other theories exist too.
Is this a good destination for families?
Yes — boat safaris are relaxed and low-exertion, a different pace from a bumpy jeep track.