Abode of tigers, elephants and rhinoceroses
The Manas National Park is located in Assam, India. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this pristine national park is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites, along with being an Elephant Reserve and a Project Tiger Reserve. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1928, and the biosphere reserve was created in 1973. According to history, it was once used as a hunting reserve by the Raja of Gauripur and the Cooch Behar Royal Family.
This national park is known for preserving endangered species such as the Hispid Hare, Assam Roofed Turtle, Pygmy Hog, Wild Water Buffalo and Golden Langur. The forests of Bhutan border the northern side of the park, with the Manas River flanking it on one side. The name of the Manas River is derived from the name of the serpent goddess Manasa. Besides its interesting history, the Manas River is also the largest tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
Following are the main tourist attractions of the Manas National Park:
Flora: The distinct flora of Manas National Park is characterised by the Burma Monsoon Forests. Small grasses and mixed deciduous forests are also present in the park. The four distinct forms of vegetation found here are the Assam Valley Semi-Evergreen Grasslands, Low Alluvial Savanna Woodland Ecosystem, East Himalayan Dry and Moist Deciduous Forests, and the Sub-Himalayan Semi-Evergreen Forests. Its rich vegetation supports a wide variety of insect life. One can easily spot exotic flowers, beautiful orchids, and mesmerizing varieties of butterflies.
Fauna: The main highlights of Manas National Park are its populations of tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. Over the years, the preservation of endangered species in the park has become more diverse. One can easily spot Clouded Leopards, Wild Buffaloes, Rhinoceroses, Elephants, and Tigers within the park’s territory. The two most significant species are the Pygmy Hog and the Hispid Hare. The avian population includes Fishing Eagles, Jungle Fowls, Kalij Pheasants, and Bulbuls.
Excursions from the Manas National Park:
Bongaigaon: It is located 83 km away from Manas National Park. The city is known for its virgin and untouched natural beauty. It is also known for the Bageswari Temple and Bageshwari Hill. Several migratory birds can also be spotted here.
Guwahati: It is located 147 km away from Manas National Park. The city is known for religious temples such as the Kamakhya Temple, Bhuvaneswari Temple, and Basistha Ashram Temple, along with boating along the Brahmaputra riverside.
Kaziranga National Park: It is located 322 km away from Manas National Park. The One-Horned Rhinoceros is the main highlight of this national park.
When to Reach: The best time to visit Manas National Park is between November and April.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport to Manas National Park is located 176 km away.
Rail: The nearest railhead is at Barpeta Road, 32 km from the national park. However, most tourists prefer arriving at Guwahati Railway Station before starting their journey toward the park.
Road: Well-paved roads connect the national park with Guwahati, which is 147 km away.
