Manas National Park: A Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot

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Explore Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, India, for diverse wildlife, scenic beauty, and thrilling safaris.

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Manas National Park

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Assam, India, Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Project Tiger reserve, an elephant reserve, and a biosphere reserve, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Manas National Park

Local tips

The best time to visit Manas National Park is from November to April for pleasant weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
Obtain necessary permits from the Field's Director Office before entering the park.
Consider a 3-day/2-night stay to fully experience the park's offerings, including jeep safaris and cultural shows.
Pack insect repellent as mosquitos can be prevalent, especially outside of peak winter months.
Explore the park through a combination of jeep safaris, elephant rides, and river rafting for diverse perspectives.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

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The Indo-Bhutan Border Gateway: A Unique Cultural Encounter

School Lake or Gashari Lake

Discover the Serenity of School Lake (Gashari Lake)

DWIJIMA PICNIC SPOT

Dwijima Picnic Spot: A Serene Haven in the Himalayas

Getting There

Air

The most convenient way to reach Manas National Park is by flying into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, approximately 180 km away. From the airport, hire a taxi or pre-booked car for a 3-4 hour drive to the park. Taxi fares range from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000.
Train

The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road Railway Station, about 20 km from the park's entry gate. Several trains connect Guwahati to Barpeta Road. From the station, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the park, costing approximately INR 500-800.
Road

Manas National Park is accessible by road from Guwahati, approximately 176 km away. Hire a taxi or take an Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus to Barpeta Road. From Barpeta Road, take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to the park. Bus fares range from INR 200-500, while taxi fares from Guwahati range from INR 3,000-5,000.

Discover more about Manas National Park

Manas National Park, a jewel of Assam, India, is a protected area that sprawls across 500 sq km. It is located in the Himalayan foothills and is contiguous with the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan. The park's name is derived from the Manas River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River, which flows through its heart, named after the Hindu serpent goddess Manasa. Manas boasts a rich history, initially serving as a hunting ground for the Cooch Behar royal family and the Raja of Gauripur. It was declared a sanctuary on October 1, 1928, and later designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The park has faced challenges, including being declared a World Heritage Site in Danger in 1992 due to poaching and terrorist activities but was removed from the list in 2011 thanks to successful preservation efforts. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a wide array of flora and fauna. It is home to over 20 endangered species, including the Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur, and wild water buffalo. Manas is also a significant bird area, hosting over 450 species of avifauna. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and river rafting, each offering a unique perspective of the park's beauty. The best time to visit Manas National Park is between November and April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife spotting is more likely. The park remains closed from June to September due to the monsoon season. Permits are required to enter the park and can be obtained from the Field's Director Office.