Species profile
About this species
The Indian one-horned rhinoceros is the largest of the Asian rhinoceros species, characterised by its distinctive single horn & thick, grey-brown skin that appears armour-plated with deep folds. Native to the Indian subcontinent, it is a semi-aquatic species that wallows in rivers & wetlands to regulate its body temperature. Once critically endangered, conservation efforts have helped populations recover, with the majority now found in Assam, India & Nepal.
Tall grasslands, subtropical forests & floodplain wetlands across northern India & Nepal, particularly in protected reserves such as Kaziranga National Park & Chitwan National Park
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph One-Horned Rhinoceros with us in India.
These departures are part of our Asia programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon during the dry season from November to March offer the best conditions, as rhinos congregate near water sources & vegetation is lower, improving visibility
Position yourself downwind & at a low angle near water sources such as rivers or wallowing pools to capture the rhino in its natural environment with a clean, reflective foreground. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to maintain a safe distance while filling the frame with the animal, paying close attention to the texture of its unique skin folds & horn. Visit during the cooler morning hours when rhinos are most active & lighting is soft, allowing for well-exposed shots that highlight the detail of their extraordinary armoured appearance.
Available holidays
Trips featuring One-Horned Rhinoceros
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.