Image Source: AmAnand
About Manas National Park
Manas National Park, located in Assam at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine wilderness, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance. It is not just a tiger reserve but also an elephant reserve and a biosphere reserve, making it one of India’s most unique natural landscapes. Known for its population of the rare golden langur, pygmy hog, and wild water buffalo, Manas offers travellers a blend of thrilling wildlife experiences and stunning scenic beauty.
Layout and Landscape
Spread across the districts of Baksa, Barpeta, Chirang, and Kokrajhar in Assam, Manas National Park covers an area of around 950 sq. km. The park is divided into three ranges – Bansbari, Panbari, and Bhuiyapara. Its terrain includes a remarkable combination of grasslands, tropical forests, riverine landscapes, and Himalayan foothills. The Manas River, a tributary of the mighty Brahmaputra, flows through the park and acts as a natural border with Bhutan, further enhancing its charm. The park’s ecosystem supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, with tall elephant grass meadows, moist deciduous forests, and riparian habitats forming the core of its landscape.
Attractions and Experiences
Manas National Park is a haven for wildlife lovers. It shelters over 20 endangered species, including the Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, and red panda in higher reaches.
Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and elephant rides through the Bansbari Range, which is the most accessible for tourists. The park is also famous for birdwatching, with more than 450 species recorded, such as the great hornbill, Bengal florican, and fishing eagle. Adventure seekers can also indulge in river rafting on the Manas River, which offers scenic views along with glimpses of wildlife. The cultural richness of the Bodo villages surrounding the park adds another layer to the experience, allowing travelers to explore tribal traditions and local handicrafts.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport), about 180 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to the park.
By Train: The closest railway station is Barpeta Road Railway Station, located around 40 km from the Bansbari entrance. It is well connected with Guwahati and other major cities of Assam.
By Road: Manas National Park can be accessed via NH 27 from Guwahati, which takes about 4–5 hours by car. State transport buses and private vehicles also operate on this route.