Manas National Park

Manas National Park is a biosphere reserve and a historical landmark in Assam. Numerous endemic and endangered species, including the golden langar, pygmy hog, hispid hare, and Assam roofed turtle, can be found in this national park. Moreover, the goddess of the serpent, Manasa, is where the name “Manas” originates. The Manas River, which flows through the park, is its source and divides it from Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan, situated in the Eastern Himalayan foothills. It offers a wide range of activities to appreciate the area’s richness and is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and Wild Buffaloes. Hence, Manas National Park is the place to go for a thrilling and rewarding wildlife experience.

Quick Fact
The Manas-Beki river system runs through the property, eventually joining the Brahmaputra River. Due to frequent rainfall, the brittle nature of the rock, and the steep grades of the catchments, these and other rivers transport a significant amount of silt and rock debris from the foothills. As a result, alluvial terraces are created, composed of thick layers of debris and rock deposited over sand and a layer of humus in the north.

 

History of Manas National Park

The fascinating history of this national park tells us that On October 1st, 1928, it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary with a footprint of less than 360 square kilometers. Manas Biosphere Reserve was created in 1973. It was a reserve forest known as “Manas Reserved Forest” and “North Kamrup Reserved Forest” before it was declared a sanctuary.

Before that, the Cooch Behar Royal Family and the Raja of Gauripur used the entire territory as a hunting ground. The reserve was enlarged to 391 square kilometers in 1951 and 1955. In December 1985, UNESCO named the area a World Heritage Site. The Manas National Park was created in 1990 by combining Kahitama, Kokilabari, and Panbari reserve forests. It was designated a World Heritage Site in Danger by UNESCO because of widespread poaching and terrorist activity. The park’s size was enlarged to 950 square kilometers in 2008.

Flora and Fauna of Manas National Park 

Manas National Park combines the Sub-Himalayan Bhabar Terai and the Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests, making it one of India’s most biologically diverse national parks. The center of the national park contains 543 different plant species. It is home to four different types of vegetation: sub-Himalayan light alluvial semi-evergreen forests (northern portions), east Himalayan mixed moist and dry deciduous forests, low alluvial savanna woodland, and semi-evergreen alluvial grasslands in the Assam Valley. Some of the famous flora of this park are Anthocephalus Chinensis, Aphanamixis Polystachya, Syzygium Formosum, Syzygium Cumini, Cinnamomum Tamala, Bauhinia Purpurea, Mallotus Philippensis, Syzygium Oblatum, Actinodaphne Obovata, Bombax Ceiba, Sterculia Villosa, Trewia Polycarpa, and Dillenia Indica. According to records, Manas National Park is home to about 450 species of birds, 50 species of reptiles, 55 species of mammals, and a few species of amphibians. In addition, rare animal species such as the Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur, and pygmy hog are found in the park. The largest Bengal florican population in the world is also located there. Some of the famous fauna of Manas National Park are Asian Elephants, Indian Rhinoceros, Gaurs, Asian Water Buffaloes, Barasingha, Hog Deer, Black Panther, and Herd of Deer.

According to records, Manas National Park is home to about 450 species of birds, 50 species of reptiles, 55 species of mammals, and a few species of amphibians. In addition, rare animal species such as the Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur, and pygmy hog are found in the park. The largest Bengal florican population in the world is also located there. Some of the famous fauna of Manas National Park are Asian Elephants, Indian Rhinoceros, Gaurs, Asian Water Buffaloes, Barasingha, Hog Deer, Black Panther, and Herd of Deer.

Places to Visit Near Manas National Park

You can visit many famous places in and around Manas National Park. Assam is a state that has a good number of tourist attractions. Below is the list of popular places to visit on your trip to Manas National Park:

  • Bansbari Tree Plantation: Located at the entrance to Manas National Park is the Bansbari Tea Plantation, which offers a lovely retreat for tourists.
  • Palace of King of Bhutan: Manas National Park is a vast animal refuge that extends into the Kingdom of Bhutan.
  • Barnadi Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated close to Manas, this sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great place to explore wildlife and enjoy nature.
  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Located around 100 kilometers from Manas, this sanctuary is famous for its dense one-horned rhinoceros population.
  • Hatisila Rock Formation: This unique geological formation is located around 25 km away from Manas National Park. The site is known for its elephant-shaped rock.
  • Guwahati: While it’s a bit farther away, Guwahati is a major city in Assam and offers attractions like the Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple on Peacock Island, Assam State Museum, and the scenic Brahmaputra River.

Safari in Manas National Park 

Jeep Safari 
Wildlife experience with Jeep Safari is an intense and startling experience that allows you to cover dense jungle areas. You can book a gypsy, which carries 6 persons at a time. Moreover, this safari is available in two slots – morning and evening. While enjoying this safari ride, you can spot rare and endangered endemic wildlife animals of Manas, including One-Horned Rhinoceros, Elephants, Fishing cats, Bison, Black panthers, Red Panda, Golden Cats, and Leopards. Jeep Safari is an opportunity to spot your favorite animals closely and admire the incredible landscapes. This jeep ride lets you cover both ends of Manas National Park and gives you an enthralling journey of 120 minutes amidst the natural beauty.

Timing of Jeep Safari 

  • Morning Timings of Jeep Safari: 6:30 AM – 9 30 AM | 10 AM – 1 PM
  • Evening Timing of Jeep Safari: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Elephant Safari
Riding on an elephant to explore the depths of this jungle is a unique and fascinating way to enjoy wildlife tourism. This type of safari in Manas is considered the safest mode of transportation to explore the wilderness. With an elephant ride, 4 to 5 travelers can explore the park simultaneously. Moreover, this safari will take you to the jungle region, where the jeep is not allowed or unsuitable due to the rugged landscapes. This ride will also give you a perfect sight of various species of birds. Also, exploring the wild from an altitude will provide you with a unique view of the forest, no doubt about it. With so many different perspectives of the park, you will get several excellent opportunities to take amazing shots you will forever cherish! 

Timing of Elephant Safari 

  • Morning Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Evening Timing: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Manas National Park Zones 
Assam’s Manas National Park spans three ranges: the Bansbari (Central), Panbari (Western), and Bhuyanpara (Eastern). The park in Assam at the foothills of the Himalayas is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and lovely surroundings. Below are the details of the zones:

Bhuyanpara Safari Zone
Bhuyanpara is the eastern portion of Manas National Park. Grassland dominates this area. In the Makibana region, the Bhuyanpara Zone is ideal for tiger sightings. The zone is incredibly well-structured, and the fauna is stimulating. The Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur, Greater One-Horned Rhino, Swamp Deer, Bengal Florican, and Pygmy Hog are uncommon and endangered animals that call this area home.

Bansbari Safari Zone
The Bansbari zone is one of Manas’ most popular zones and is highly recommended by wildlife enthusiasts. The core area of Manas is called the Bansbari zone, close to Barpeta Road. Huge grassy fields, plenty of waterholes, and river streams make up this area’s beautiful, alluring landscape. 

Panbari Safari Zone
The Panbari Zone of Manas National Park is 35 km from Barpeta Road City and 150 km from Guwahati City. There are several lodges in Panbari where you can relax after taking in the wildlife’s commotion. Forest guards are always on duty for the safety of both animals and visitors. Spending time here provides you with a top-notch adventure and makes it worthwhile to observe many bird and animal species and the natural beauty up close.

Resort in and Around Manas National Park 
A wildlife tour is about experiencing the jungle vibe, reconnecting with nature, and discovering the diverse biodiversity. However, staying in the jungle resorts and nearby hotels complements your tour’s theme. Check out the list and make your trip enjoyable with these staying options. 

  • The Sikhiri Cottages
  • The Bansbari Lodge 
  • Birina Resort
  • Hotel Himalaya 
  • Arna Residency
  • Eagle Nest Eco Retreat
  • Florican Jungle Cottage 
  • Hornbill Eco Camp 
  • Musa Jungle Retreat

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    BEST TIME TO VISIT MANAS NATIONAL PARK

    SUMMER SEASON

    (March to June)

    During summer temperatures in the area can reach 37°C and are oppressively hot and muggy. Due to the extreme heat, going on a jungle safari in May and July is very challenging, but evenings do offer some comfort. Despite the hot weather, you can stay at a luxury resort, enjoy swimming in pools, and sip refreshing mocktails. The day’s activities will keep you entertained, including live music and indoor games. Summer is an ideal time for those who want to witness the wildlife as animals usually come out very often to drink water. 

    MONSOON SEASON

    (July to September)

    Manas National park experiences moderate to heavy rainfall in these months. However, due to the possibility of heavy rains or floods in Assam, the park remains closed during this time and is only partially open during October. In addition, the roads inside the national park are generally inaccessible, making it challenging to explore the park during this time. 

    WINTER SEASON

    (October to February)

    Winter is the best time to visit Manas National Park for sightseeing because the temperature varies between 15 and 25°C. Elephant and jeep safaris, river rafting, bird watching, and more activities are available for tourists. Additionally, during the winter, the temperature typically drops significantly at night, so if you intend to stay over, wear sweaters or pullovers.

    HOW TO REACH MANAS NATIONAL PARK

     
    By Flight
    By Train
    By Road
    Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is the closest airport to the national park. It is located at a distance of 137 km, and you can cover the distance in approximately 3 hours via NH27. On top of that, this airport is well connected with other parts of the country, including Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Jorhat, Dibrugarh Mumbai, and Bagdogra. After reaching the airport, you can find the availability of the transport services like buses, taxis, and cabs. By choosing any of them, you can reach the national park. 
    Barpeta Road Railway Junction is the nearest station to the Manas National Park, located around 21 km. But due to the low connectivity with the rest of the parts of the country, it is advised to reach Guwahati Railway Junction and then to Barpeta Road Railway Junction. Major tourists from different states reach Guwahati first and then move to Barpeta to visit Manas National Park.
    Roadways are one of the best ways to reach Manas National Park if you are coming from nearby locations. By road, the national park is accessible from Guwahati (176 km), Shillong (287 km), Siliguri (386 km), Kaziranga (403 km), and Darjeeling (466 km). NH 31 links Barpeta Road with Guwahati, and the road is about 21 km from the Bansbari, the main entry point for the National Park.

    TIPS FOR MANAS NATIONAL PARK

    • Listen to all the instructions of the Tour guide and follow those teachings.
    • Make sure that the flash of the camera is off during photography and shooting in the park. 
    • Staying in your designated vehicle is mandatory, and you are not allowed to walk or hike in the park for safety reasons. 
    • It is denied to feed any animals in the jungle.
    • For a better wildlife experience, you should hire a tour guide that will give you insight into the park’s biodiversity. 
    • Pre-booking for your safari rides and accommodation ease your traveling experience. 
    • It is recommended to stay at nearby staying options to feel the jungle vibe around you. 
    • Remember to carry Binoculars for birdwatching and witnessing the plants.
    • It is good to know that boat safari is also available in the Eastern range of the Manas National Park.

    FAQs

    Why is Manas National Park famous?

    The Manas sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including many endangered species, including the tiger, pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros, and Indian elephant. It is situated on a gentle slope in the foothills of the Himalayas, where wooded hills give way to alluvial grasslands and tropical forests.

    Which animal is famous in Manas sanctuary?

    The Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur, and pygmy hog are just a few examples of the uncommon and endangered endemic animals in the area. In addition, the wild water buffalo population in Manas is well-known.

    Is Manas National Park worth visiting?

    Even if the Manas National Park is a haven for lovers of animals, you can still be adventurous there. River rafting over the Manas river is a service offered by the park. Throughout the 35-km trip, you will see a wide variety of species.