Sonbil Village Park — Attraction in Assam

Son Beel, also known as Shon Bill, is one of the largest wetlands in Assam, located in the Karimganj district. It is renowned for its unique seasonal transformation: during the winter months until March, the area serves as farmland for rice cultivation. As the seasons change and water levels rise, it transforms into a lake. The shallow depth of the lake often leads to overflow during the rainy season, with excess water flowing into the Kushiyara River via the Kakra River, eventually reaching Bangladesh.

The lake is flanked by hills on both its eastern and western sides, offering picturesque landscapes. The Shingla River, originating from Manipur, acts as both the primary inlet and outlet for Son Beel. The wetland is home to numerous Hizol trees (Barringtonia acutangula), which remain partially submerged during the wet season, adding to the area's scenic beauty. Son Beel is also a significant fishery resource, contributing substantially to the local fish supply in southern Assam.

Son Beel hosts a diverse array of bird species, with records indicating the presence of 89 species across 32 families. This includes water-dependent, water, and terrestrial birds. Notably, species such as the red-breasted parakeet and black-headed ibis, both listed as near-threatened, have been observed in the area. Additionally, vulnerable species like Pallas’s fish eagle and the lesser adjutant stork are also found here.

The best time to visit Son Beel is from March to the onset of winter, when the lake is full, offering stunning views. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating and birdwatching. The sunrise and sunset over the lake provide particularly captivating sights, with the sun's rays reflecting off the water in myriad hues.

To reach Son Beel, travelers can head to Karimganj, approximately 43 kilometers away, with a driving time of around 51 minutes. Various transportation options, including government buses and private taxis, are available to facilitate the journey to this seasonal wetland.

Sagar Bhowmik...

🌊 Son Beel Park – Asia’s 2nd Largest Wetland | Honest Visitor Review

Son Beel (or Sonbil) Park, located in the heart of Assam, is one of Asia’s largest freshwater wetlands and a true hidden gem for nature lovers. It's not just a waterpark—it’s a scenic paradise with breathtaking views, especially during sunset when the sky reflects beautifully off the vast, tranquil waters. 🌅

🛶 BOAT RIDE – BE AWARE!

One of the key attractions here is the boat ride across the lake. You’ll see dozens of boats lined up every morning, ready to take visitors from one edge of the wetland to the other. The original charge is just ₹25 per person one-way (₹50 for a round trip), and locals avail it daily.

🚨 WARNING: Overcharging & Misleading Tactics! Unfortunately, many visitors fall into traps where boatmen charge ridiculously high rates—especially from tourists unfamiliar with the actual pricing. Some even claim special rides or exclusive experiences to justify the inflated fares. Be firm, ask for the local rate, and confirm prices before boarding.

📸 What Makes Son Beel Special?

🌾 Wide open water stretches with green floating grasslands

🌇 Mesmerizing sunset views perfect for photography

🕊️ Rich birdlife and peaceful surroundings

🚣‍♂️ Affordable local boat rides (if you avoid the scams!)

🌿 A place where nature speaks in silence

✅ Tips for Visitors:

Visit early in the morning or during golden hour (just before sunset)

Carry cash in small denominations

Ask locals about the standard pricing before taking a boat

Don’t fall for agents or middlemen offering “special” rides

📍 Final Verdict: Son Beel Park is a serene and soul-soothing destination. The natural beauty is unmatched and perfect for a quiet escape. Just stay aware of boat ride fraud, and your experience here will be nothing short of magical.

[📷 Image attached: A glimpse of the mesmerizing beauty...

The most amazing thing about Son Beel is that it becomes a farm land for rice cultivation during winter till March and then the land fills with water and becomes a lake. The less depth of the lake makes it overflow during rainy season and the water meets Kushiara River through Kakra River and flows to Bangladesh. The lake gives a picturesque landscape with hills on both east and west sides. The inlet and outlets of Son Beel is River Shingla that originates in Manipur. Son Beel is famous for its fishery and it is one of the main producers of fish for the entire district in southern Assam. Son Beel is best visited during rainy season that is March onwards till the beginning of winters. Till then the lake is full of water and offers a view that is hard to find elsewhere.

Son Beel can be easily reached from Karimganj which is just 43 km away with a driving time of 51 mins. You will find various transports like government buses, private taxis, etc to reach the beautiful and seasonal...