Record tourist rush to Kaziranga prompts Assam to build Hyatt, Taj hotels: Atul Bora

Assam cabinet minister Atul Bora on July 13 said Kaziranga National Park has recorded its highest-ever tourist footfall this year, prompting the state government to expand tourism infrastructure, including the construction of Hyatt and Taj hotels near the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Speaking to reporters, Bora said the park has witnessed an unprecedented influx of both domestic and international tourists.

"A record number of tourists are visiting Kaziranga this time, not just from within the country but from abroad as well," Bora said.

He attributed the surge in tourism to the high-profile visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and the King of Bhutan, which have significantly boosted Kaziranga's global visibility.

"There is a lot of interest because our Prime Minister, the President, and even the King of Bhutan visited the place. We have observed the annual trends, and this year has seen the highest influx of tourists," he said.

To meet the growing demand for accommodation, the Assam government has decided to facilitate the construction of two premium hotels under the Hyatt and Taj brands.

The minister also highlighted other tourism initiatives around Kaziranga, including the recently inaugurated International Orchid Park, which he said has emerged as a major attraction for visitors.

Additionally, Bora said the government plans to establish three tea museums in tea gardens, likely through the Labour Welfare Department, to showcase Assam's tea heritage and diversify the state's tourism offerings.