Orchids in full bloom at the Kaziranga National Orchid Park in Assam

The Orchid park near Kaziranga National park is a treat for the eyes and a paradise for flower lovers

As children, one of the most exciting things about making a roadtrip to our maternal grandparents’ home, was the drive through Kaziranga National park on the National Highway. As the Burapahar mountain range becomes visible, we would sit up from our sluggish postures in the backseat. At the sight of the signboard reading ‘animal corridor’, I was always hopeful of spotting a wild animal other than the grazing rhinos or elephants that crossed the road. Another favourite activity was to squint attentively at the treetops at the wild orchids. This year, when I drove the 350- odd kilometres on that familiar route, my focus was on the road rather than thinking of playing ‘spot the orchid’ with my cousin and niece. Instead I made a surprise stop at the Kaziranga National Orchid Park, a couple of kilometres from the Kaziranga National Park. This was my first visit there.