Rhino & River Opens Wildlife Retreat near Pobitora to Boost Northeast Tourism

Boutique Wildlife Stay Launches near Pobitora

Rhino & River, a boutique wildlife retreat, has opened in the plains of Mayang, close to the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by farmland and the Brahmaputra River, the property offers travellers an experience that combines wildlife, culture, and contemporary hospitality. The retreat features loghut-style rooms that balance rustic elements with modern comfort, and guests can choose from Tea Garden Rooms or Safari Rooms, each with a private balcony and curated amenities.

Experiences at the property highlight Assam's natural and cultural setting. Activities include jeep and elephant safaris in Pobitora, birding trails with naturalists, visits to rural households and ancient temples, dolphin cruises on the Brahmaputra, and heritage walks in Mayong, known for its folklore and traditions. Culinary offerings form a key part of the stay, with the signature restaurant Baan Kaahi focusing on farm-to-table dining, and the bar Apong serving locally influenced cocktails with a selection of premium spirits.

Leisure facilities include a temperature-controlled swimming pool overlooking the river, Nirban – a spa offering therapies using indigenous oils - and Rock Bar, a lawn designed for intimate gatherings, celebrations, and corporate retreats. Vikas Agarwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SM Developers, said, “Rhino & River is designed to showcase Assam’s unique blend of nature and culture. Our goal is to offer discerning travellers more than just a stay, and to give them an experience that connects them to the land, its people, and its stories. With tourism in the Northeast expanding rapidly, this retreat is a step towards positioning the region as a premium destination while also creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for the local community.”

The launch of Rhino & River comes at a time when the Northeast is recording growth in tourist arrivals, driven by improved connectivity and rising interest in experiential travel. With its emphasis on sustainability, cultural engagement, and boutique hospitality, Rhino & River is expected to contribute to the state’s evolving tourism landscape.